Chapter 251 Reconnecting with Contacts
Ashley found herself smack dab in the middle of a storm, where every insult was like a sharp knife.
But hey, she was used to it by now. Her heart was like a fortress, totally bulletproof.
"Miss Bezos, take a good look. Do we really have the same dress?"
Ashley tore her fancy gown, showing off her long, slender legs.
Her legs, looking like they belonged on a supermodel, came out all graceful and stuff.
The dress, perfectly tailored, showed off her slim waist and long legs. Her dainty ankles were rocking crystal high heels, making her look like a butterfly ready to take flight.
Ashley casually picked up the piece of fabric and tossed it on the ground in front of Trinity, her smile brighter than cherry blossoms in April.
Trinity was floored by her move. "So what? It doesn't change the fact that you're wearing a knockoff. Do you think everyone here is dumb?"
A few guests close to Trinity chimed in, "Yeah, a fake is a fake. Trinity is the daughter of the Emperial Avenue Group. Even if you tear it all off, it won't make it real!"
Someone whispered, "I think it looks better this way. Mainly because Ashley's legs are really something."
"Like a fairy ready to fly away."
Ashley gave a faint smile. "Miss Bezos, it's just a dress. Is it worth getting so mad? Honestly, I just didn't want to wear the same dress as you."
Trinity sneered, "What a joke! If I had known you were wearing this, I wouldn't have chosen it. The Astor Group's scandals are a disgrace. Who would want to be associated with you?"
Ashley smirked, "In that case, please step aside. Your words are polluting the air."
Someone chuckled.
Someone else thought she was really impressive.
Trinity gritted her teeth. "Just wait and see; let's see how long you can stay arrogant."
"Then keep your eyes wide open and don't get distracted." Ashley had other stuff to do tonight that didn't involve Trinity and didn't want to waste her energy.
She'd get to the bottom of the dress issue later.
But she was more interested in seeing which companies that used to be loyal to the Astor Group would still show goodwill. Tonight, she couldn't just gather information for Damian; she had to plan for the Astor Group.
"Miss Astor!"
Finally, the first gentleman of the night approached her, Steven Rogers, the chairman of Smart Wing Technology. Years ago, Smart Wing Technology had gotten a million-dollar investment from the Astor Group during its Series A funding, which had led to its big success.
Later, Smart Wing Technology bought back the original shares held by the Astor Group at a high price, leading to the Astor Group divesting its holdings and settling all accounts.
Ashley smiled lightly. "Mr. Rogers, you look younger every year."
Already in his fifties, Steven beamed. He had been deeply attracted to Ashley the moment she walked in, but everyone else had avoided her to stay out of trouble.
"Miss Astor, that's music to my ears. If it weren't for Mr. Astor's help back then, I wouldn't be where I am today."
Ashley said, "Mr. Rogers, do you want to thank my father?"
Steven hesitated. "If there's anything I can help with, I certainly will."
Ashley said, "Thank you, Mr. Rogers."
Steven smiled. "Did you come alone?"
Ashley neither confirmed nor denied it. She didn't know much about Steven and sensed he was somewhat cunning, suitable for business but not for friendship. "Why do you ask?"
Steven awkwardly handed her his business card. "Feel free to contact me if you need help."
As his fingers were about to touch Ashley, she dodged them. "Thank you, Mr. Rogers. I look forward to our next meeting."
"Mr. Rogers, do you know Miss Astor?" The speaker was Victor.
His tall figure naturally overshadowed Steven, making him look like a dwarf in comparison.
Steven quickly nodded. "Mr. Hearst, you know Miss Astor too?"
Victor smiled lightly. "It's pleased to make her acquaintance."
Steven fawned over him. "I'll leave you two to chat then."
Victor nodded.
Ashley gave a faint smile. "Mr. Victor, you here to back me up?"
Victor smiled, showing a hint of concern. "Did Trinity give you a hard time earlier?"
Ashley sighed, "The Astor Group's fallen. No wonder people treat me like this."
Victor said, "That's not right. We were once family. If you're in trouble, we won't just stand by. Why didn't you come to me if you needed help?"
Ashley thought to herself, 'Asking you for help? Who knows if you'll end up screwing me over?'
With tears in her eyes, Ashley said, "Thank you. I thought the Hearst family hated me to the core. Didn't expect you to still remember me."
Victor gently said, "If Damian's wronged you, I apologize on his behalf. Let me know if you need anything."
Ashley, tearfully moved, said, "Okay, Victor."
Victor left with a smile, while Ashley's smile faded.
She used to think Victor was a gentle and courteous gentleman. Today, she realized that his gentleness was just a way to win people over.
If she hadn't gone through such painful experiences, she would never have seen his true colors.
Sure enough, after Victor left, people started approaching him with advice.
"What were you talking to her about?"
"Ashley's just here to ask for help tonight!"
"Mr. Victor Hearst, you're destined for great things. Don't let beauty cloud your judgment."
Two of them were big shots at KM Group, clearly in Victor's camp.
Several more guys approached her, but it was obvious they were just drawn in by Ashley's looks, not really interested in working with the Astor Group.
Ashley skillfully dealt with them.
A moment later, she approached Lars Bergstrom, who was chatting with someone.
Lars was the president of Silvervale City Development Bank, and he had signed off on freezing the Astor Group's big funds.
If she could persuade him, it might speed up the revival of the Astor Group.
Ashley smiled. "Mr. Bergstrom, nice to meet you. How have you been?"
Lars, nearly sixty and about to retire, was likely to be rehired by the bank due to his excellent work.
"And you are?" Lars didn't remember her.
Ashley handed him her business card. "You might not know me, but you should remember my father."
She didn't mention her father's name, but someone nearby whispered a few words to Lars.
Lars's expression changed slightly, and he looked at her again. "Ashley, huh? I've heard from your father. You've grown up so quickly."
Ashley humbly said, "My father often spoke highly of you and told me to learn from you. I just never had the chance. I'm glad to finally meet you today."
Lars noticed her business card identified her as a lawyer and, recalling the Astor Group's past, hinted, "Is there something you need from me?"
"I know you're busy; I wouldn't dare disturb you lightly. But if I could get some guidance from you, it would be my honor."
Ashley's face was so beautiful, and her humble, gentle smile made it hard for anyone to refuse. Even though Lars knew her intentions, he couldn't help but nod. "Today is too crowded and noisy. Let's arrange another time."
With Lars's agreement, Ashley felt a surge of joy. "I understand. I won't take up any more of your time."
Her understanding and appropriate behavior made Lars think more highly of her.
A man beside Lars said, "I didn't expect Ashley to be so outstanding. But the Astor Group's issues are very tricky. Are you really going to help her?"
Lars, holding her business card, ambiguously said, "There will be a time when she can be useful."
Christian couldn't stand Ashley's actions. Seeing her even daring to approach Lars, he angrily stomped over. "Ashley."
Ashley looked at him. "Mr. Young? You're here too?"
What nonsense! Wasn't he eye-catching enough?
Christian grabbed her slender wrist and pulled her into his arms, holding her tightly. "Do you just love being in the spotlight?"
