<b>Chapter </b>132
This windfall was a lifeline for Noreen–her previous funds had long since
dwindled almost to nothing.
As soon as the moneynded, she called an emergency meeting with the tech team at herpany. They needed to get the model trained and ready forunch before the uing summit–no excuses.
But quantitative training required massive amounts of online data, so Noreen flew out to Northcrest to meet with Mr. Naylor at Eastvale Corporation. Eastvale had the most advanced andprehensive database in the country. If she could secure their coboration, it would dramatically boost the efficiency of her project.
What she didn’t expect was to run into Seth and Bianca in Northcrest. The world really was small.
She arrived at Eastvale just around lunchtime. Seth had already invited Mr. Naylor out for a meal. Noreen figured it was just bad luck and she’d have to try again another day.
But then Bianca, exuding graciousness, extended an invitation. As if the past had never happened.
“Seth, since we’ve run into Noreen here in Northcrest, why not have her join us for lunch? We all know each other, after all.”
Mr. Naylor was on board–he’d always been optimistic about Noreen’s project anyway. But it was clear Seth had the final say.
He didn’t hesitate, nodding at Bianca. “It’s your call. You don’t need my permission for something like this.”
That kind of trust could onlye from a deep, intimate bond–the kind Noreen had worked seven years for, with nothing to show for it.
For a moment, she felt herself drifting, lost in thought.
Bianca beamed at her, all friendly warmth. “Noreen,e with us?”
<b>08:40 </b>
Chapter <b>132 </b>
Noreen didn’t turn her down. After all, she was here for Mr. Naylor. If Seth and Bianca were giving her an opening, she’d be foolish not to take it.
The group piled into Eastvale’spany car and headed to the restaurant. While Noreen chatted with Mr. Naylor in the back, Seth and Bianca sat side by side up front. Noreen didn’t mind the backseat, but she couldn’t help noticing how the view of their heads together was oddly irritating.
Thankfully, the ride was short. Soon, they pulled up to the restaurant.
Seth got out first, opened Bianca’s door, and helped her down–thoughtful and attentive as ever.
Noreen was wearing heels that day; she didn’t need any help, but it would have been basic courtesy for Seth to offer. Too bad he was never one for manners. Not that she needed him anyway.
At lunch, Bianca eagerly steered the conversation toward her own Al Initiative project, pitching it to Mr. Naylor. It didn’t take Noreen long to realize Bianca was after Eastvale’s database too.
As for Seth–he was there to y the perfect partner, smoothing the way for Bianca and backing her all the way.
Every time Noreen tried to speak, Bianca cut her off. No wonder she’d been so generous in inviting Noreen to lunch–she’d only done it to keep her in check.
After listening for a while, Mr. Naylor frowned slightly. “Your project sounds promising, but the advantages aren’t obvious, and the market seems rather niche–mainly targeting corporate professionals who need help with presentations and documents.”
“Byparison, I think Miss Gilmore’s project has broader potential and a wider market.”
Bianca’s expression,faltered.
Seth jumped in smoothly, “It’s just a preliminary concept–we’re still refining it.”
<b>08.40n </b>
With Seth and Aurelion Group backing her, Bianca quickly regained herposure. “Mr. Naylor, your feedback is invaluable. We’ll definitely make adjustments moving forward.”
Mr. Naylor, probably swayed by Seth and the weight of Aurelion Group, nodded his approval. “When you’re ready, just coordinate with our team directly.”
Just like that, she’d secured support from a major yer, effortlessly.
Noreen couldn’t help but recall the struggles she’d faced hustling for investment for her own project, knocking on doors and chasing leads.
It was true: nothing stings quite likeparison.