Chapter 322
Ivan's voice was detached. "Today is the third review meeting of the A-F Project, and as the lead, your absence from this crucial meeting needs an explanation."
"All the necessary documents for the third review have been handed to my assistant, Ariana. She's been involved in every step; she won't disappoint you." Haley's cool voice came from Ivan's phone, her nonchalance almost tangible.
He paused, then calmly said, "I've reviewed the documents, and they are impressive, meeting my high standards. I want to invite you to dinner tonight; what time are you available?"
That remark left everyone in the conference room startled.
Countless gazes landed on the stack of documents in front of Ariana. The meeting hadn't even started, and the materials hadn't been touched—who could have reviewed them?
Moreover, Ivan commended the quality of the materials. Despite her frown and visibly poor mood upon arrival.
Yet, Ivan had just offered to take the project lead out for dinner, suggesting perhaps genuine satisfaction.
A collective sigh of relief spread across the room.
However, just as they relaxed, Ivan's brows again hinted at a bone-chilling dissatisfaction.
"I'm sorry, Mr. Winston, I have other plans tonight," Haley responded evenly.
Ivan's expression grew colder. "What about tomorrow evening?"
He needed to see her; if they didn't clear the air, she might avoid him forever. It wasn't for any other reason than not wanting to see Owen hurt.
"I'll be busy every evening from now on," Haley said hesitantly. "I've promised Owen that I'd make him dinner every night."
Ivan was taken aback.
This woman had been avoiding the Winston residence for days, losing the desire to cook for Owen. Yet, it seemed like something had changed.
"Haley, are you on the phone with my father?" The childlike voice of Owen was barely audible on the other end of the line.
Ivan's furrowed brow relaxed, the icy tension dissolving from his body. A smile appeared. "All right, I understand."
He ended the call with a glance around the room.
Frightened colleagues quickly bowed their heads, flipping through documents, pretending to have heard nothing.
"Meeting's adjourned," Ivan pushed his chair back and stood up, announcing coldly.
Ariana was caught off guard and hurriedly stood up. "Mr. Winston, the third review for the project hasn't started yet."
"I'm satisfied with it. Proceed as outlined in the documents."
Ivan strode toward the door.
Ariana remained stunned. Haley's report was solid, but to have the boss approve it without so much as a glance was child's play, especially for a project worth billions...
However, recalling how Ivan had repeatedly checked Haley's schedule, wanting to take her out, Ariana realized that there was more beneath the surface.
Ivan reached the elevator, and as the doors opened, a little kid in a suit stepped out. "Father, where are you off to?"
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