Chapter 170 A Meaningful Thank-You Banquet
Noah didn't expect to see news about Quentin and Lauren in the magazine he was casually flipping through.
"What's up with Sophia? Are the rumors true that you two are back together? And what about Lauren and Matthew?" Noah's face was serious. He was close to both Quentin and Sophia.
He didn't know all the details from back then, but he knew Quentin had deep feelings for Sophia. He was worried Sophia's return might rekindle their romance.
"You're overthinking it. I helped Sophia sort out some issues at Hall Corporation. She couldn't repay my loan, so she gave me shares," Quentin explained patiently.
"Regardless of the truth, the magazine's report has already misled the public. Now, everyone thinks Lauren is the third wheel. What are you going to do about it?" Noah asked.
This situation was already affecting Robinson Conglomerate's reputation. If not handled properly, it could lead to bigger problems. Even though Robinson Conglomerate was powerful in City A, it had many enemies, especially hidden ones.
"I'll handle it and sue those spreading misinformation soon," Quentin said firmly.
He had promised not to let anyone hurt Lauren, so he had to act, whether she saw the magazine or not.
Noah felt a bit relieved. He was worried Quentin might actually betray Lauren, which would hurt both Lauren and Sophia.
Lauren heard about the magazine issue again on the TV news. Quentin had taken several magazine companies to court, demanding compensation and apologies for the false reports.
Lauren stayed calm, knowing Quentin had helped her avoid public scrutiny. She wasn't moved or concerned. She was happy living in her own world now.
Ethan accepted Lauren and Kimberly's invitation to visit. He also discussed Lauren's next project.
Kimberly warmly welcomed Ethan when he arrived. "Ethan, I've known you for years. Lauren often talks about you like you're still our neighbor, even after all this time."
Ethan smiled. "Yeah, I miss those days. I used to go to school with Lauren every day and eat at your house. I loved your cooking."
"You're so sweet. Make yourself at home later," Kimberly said with a satisfied smile as she headed to the kitchen.
Ethan sat next to Lauren and pulled out some documents. "Lauren, this is your first job. Design a house based on these requirements and give me an initial design as soon as possible."
Lauren excitedly took the documents, smiling as she flipped through them. Ethan kept watching her. He knew about the magazine and Quentin, but he couldn't quite read Lauren's current feelings.
"Ethan, thank you so much. This project is exciting, and I can't wait to start. I have some ideas already. Hold on, I'll sketch them out quickly," Lauren said eagerly as she grabbed paper and a pen, then focused on her design.
Seeing Lauren so focused on her work was a sight to behold. Ethan couldn't help but be captivated by her concentration. He felt lucky to be the only one who appreciated her like this.
After about half an hour, Lauren finished her work and looked up to find Ethan staring at her. "What's up?"
Ethan smiled. "Nothing, just never seen you this serious about work before. It's a nice surprise."
Lauren brushed her hair back. "I always worked hard, even if I didn't like the job. No regrets if you give it your all."
Ethan nodded. He knew Lauren was always responsible.
"Lauren, I heard about the magazine issue. I think Quentin might come to see you next. What do you think?" Ethan hesitated before asking. He had to address it.
Lauren's expression hardened. "He should have already taken care of it. No need to come to me. I won't be used by those reporters. It's peaceful here, and I want to keep it that way."
Her attitude reassured Ethan. He wanted to keep this peace with her too.
"Alright, focus on your work. If you run into any problems, let me know. I'll help however I can," Ethan said, changing the subject.
Lauren smiled gently. "You've already helped a lot. I'll do my best and not bother you."
Lauren always seemed to keep a distance. Ethan didn't want to push her. He respected her choices, even if it meant she might reject him.
Just then, Kimberly finished preparing the food. Lauren and Ethan exchanged smiles and headed to the dining table.
"Mrs. Walker, you didn't have to go all out. We could've had something simple," Ethan said, feeling a bit embarrassed. He'd known the Walker family for so long, but this was the first time Kimberly treated him like a guest.
"Ethan, don't be so polite. You've helped Lauren so much. One meal isn't enough to express my appreciation. But besides inviting you for a meal, I really don't have any other way to thank you," Kimberly said, feeling a bit guilty.
"Mrs. Walker, you're too kind. Lauren and I have been friends since we were kids. It's just what friends do," Ethan said, feeling a bit awkward.
Kimberly looked thoughtfully at Lauren and Ethan across the table. "Yes, I know you two have always been close. From now on, I'll consider you part of the family and won't be so formal with you."
Lauren blushed at Kimberly's words. She tugged at Kimberly's clothes, signaling her to stop. Kimberly understood, but Lauren would only get her intentions later.
Ethan caught the meaning in Kimberly's words. He was happy inside but didn't show it. Kimberly's attitude gave him a boost. He'd work even harder to win Lauren over, not wanting to let Kimberly or himself down.
