Chapter 223 The Bro Was Here
Erin and Kaelen had a pretty sweet business setup going. Kaelen played a huge role in getting WealthWave into the Skyscape City scene, and Erin helped Kaelen invest in TripLink. Basically, they were partners in crime.
Erin thought Skyview was top-notch. His shared container plan fit right in with her own strategies. She was so eager to team up that her bank even gave him a loan.
With all these connections, Erin hated seeing her partners at odds. Sorting out their beef was a big deal for her.
Kaelen, on the other hand, had no clue where to start. Skyview, though, didn't seem bothered at all. "Erin," he started, "Kaelen and I have been butting heads for a while now. A little friction is normal, right? But I gotta say, I'm surprised to see you here."
Erin raised an eyebrow. "Unless I'm missing something, this is the first time you two have met. How have you been arguing?"
Skyview grinned. "What else causes drama between two guys? A woman, of course."
"A woman?" Erin's eyes shifted to Willow, and she smiled knowingly. "She's gorgeous! No wonder you two are fighting over her!"
Willow blushed. "Erin, you're too kind. I'm just an ordinary girl." But inside, she was thrilled by the compliment. Erin's classy vibe made her words hit harder, and Willow found herself warming up to her.
"Willow's with me," Skyview said, making it clear. "She's my girlfriend. Kaelen trying to steal her is way out of line."
Erin turned to Kaelen, frowning. "Kaelen, you're an amazing guy. You could have any woman you want. Why go after someone else's girl?"
"Erin, you've got it wrong," Kaelen argued. "I wasn't trying to compete with anyone. Our families set up this meeting with Willow. Skyview just jumped in and started causing trouble!"
Erin sighed, stuck between the two. "You both have a point! How about this: you compete fairly for Willow's heart. The winner stays humble, and the loser steps aside gracefully. No hard feelings, okay?"
Out of respect for Erin, both guys reluctantly agreed. "I was always planning to compete fairly," Kaelen said. "I'm sure I can win Willow over."
Skyview laughed. "Fair competition? At your age? You don't stand a chance!"
"Gentlemen, please!" Erin cut in, rubbing her temples. "As long as you’ve come to an understanding. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to talk to Adam." With that, she made a quick exit.
Erin's schedule was always jam-packed. The fact that she took even a few minutes to mediate their spat showed how much she valued them. She thought their beef was business-related, but a love triangle? Way more complicated. Best to leave that mess alone.
As soon as Erin was out of earshot, Kaelen turned to Skyview. "I gotta say, I'm surprised you’ve got Erin on your side."
Skyview smirked. "If someone like you can win her over, why not me?"
Kaelen let out a dry laugh. "What makes you think you’re even in my league? This is pointless." He turned to Willow. "Come on, Willow. The auction’s about to start, and I’ve got a surprise for you."
Willow leaned into Skyview, a mischievous glint in her eye. "Sorry, Kaelen. I’m with Skyview today. Wherever he goes, I go."
"Willow, don’t be difficult," Nicholas chimed in, frowning.
"I’m not being difficult at all!" Willow shot back, looking all innocent. "I’m just following your advice."
Skyview chuckled, placing a hand on Willow’s arm. "Don’t tease Nicholas too much, Willow. Let’s head to the auction. I’ve got a surprise for you too."
"Alright, let’s go," Willow agreed, her voice soft and sweet. This act of obedience was, of course, just for show. She was trying to provoke Kaelen, hoping he’d finally back off.
Most guys would’ve taken the hint and walked away. But Willow had misjudged Kaelen. He thrived on challenges. The more out of reach something seemed, the more he wanted it. Willow’s defiance only made him want her more. He wasn’t about to let Skyview, someone he saw as beneath him, win.
Kaelen glared at Skyview, his eyes full of animosity. Skyview met his gaze without flinching, but then seemed to realize how childish their standoff was. He took Willow’s arm and said, "Let’s go." With that, he led her towards the ballroom.
Kaelen and Nicholas followed, their faces grim. Just then, a voice called out from behind them. "Skyview! Skyview! Didn’t expect to see you at the Brighter Futures Ball!"
Skyview recognized the voice instantly. It was Oliver. Oliver was a regular at these kinds of events. Seeing him at the Brighter Futures Ball was no surprise.
Skyview turned around and, seeing it was indeed Oliver, couldn’t help but laugh. "Oliver! What a coincidence running into you here!"
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