Chapter 64 Wendy's Overture
Lauren had grown wise; she knew Wendy's presence was a thorn in her heart, so she refrained from mentioning her, giving Quentin the space he needed.
Upon Quentin's return to the mansion that evening, after dinner, they both went about their usual routines in the living room. Lauren sat on the sofa watching TV, while Quentin worked on his laptop.
At that moment, the entertainment news program caught Lauren's attention. The program happened to be discussing Wendy's news.
"The popular star Wendy's flight abroad has been confirmed. According to reliable sources, Wendy's farewell event will be held at a luxurious hotel under the Robinson Conglomerate, with the Robinson Conglomerate's CEO, Quentin, in attendance. This has raised questions about their relationship."
As the TV continued, Lauren, disinterested, observed Quentin from the corner of her eye, wondering why he remained expressionless. Shouldn't he have something to say about this?
As time passed, Lauren grew increasingly disappointed. Just as she was about to give up, Quentin spoke up.
"Don't waste your time on this fake news all day. It's meaningless."
"Okay," Lauren replied, trying to decipher Quentin's words, but failing to understand his true intentions. Was he annoyed by her interference? Or did he believe the news was all false?
Feeling tangled in her thoughts, Lauren gathered the courage to ask, "Quentin, are you really going to attend her farewell event?" She nervously awaited Quentin's response, fearing she might upset him.
Quentin, observing Lauren's cautious demeanor, softened. He wondered why Lauren seemed so afraid of him, always on edge around him. He didn't see himself as a menacing figure.
"No," Quentin's voice softened.
Upon hearing Quentin's words, Lauren's face lit up. "That's great!"
Observing Lauren's swift change in demeanor, Quentin couldn't help but think, that this woman's emotions were as fickle as the wind!
Quentin's decision not to attend Wendy's farewell event provided Lauren with a reassuring reason. It seemed Quentin truly had no significant connection with Wendy; otherwise, he wouldn't have missed such an important event.
Quentin realized that seeing Lauren happy also brought him joy, a feeling he quite liked. Everything seemed to be heading in a positive direction. Just as Lauren thought she and Quentin were on the right track, an unexpected event occurred.
Initially thrilled about the opportunity to film abroad, Wendy found herself conflicted. While her agency fully supported this career move as a crucial transition in her acting career, Wendy hesitated. Leaving City A meant being away from Quentin for a while.
Moreover, Quentin's indifferent attitude toward her was a new experience for Wendy. Throughout her life, boys had always flocked to her, treating her well. However, Quentin's aloofness sparked a greater desire in her to conquer his attention.
Determined to meet Quentin, Wendy tried various methods to arrange a meeting, all in vain. Aware that Quentin was intentionally avoiding her, the proud Wendy refused to give up easily. She devised a plan.
Upon leaving for work in the morning, Quentin informed Lauren, "I have a mandatory birthday party to attend tonight, so you don't have to wait for me to have dinner."
Lauren stared at Quentin in disbelief, unable to hide her disappointment, but nodded nonetheless. "Okay."
Quentin's eyes betrayed a hint of regret, quickly masked as he left the mansion without looking back.
Throughout the day, Lauren's heart raced, unsure of the sudden unease that had gripped her. Choosing not to dwell on it, she stayed home, taking walks, reading, and resting.
In the evening, Quentin arrived at the party venue, hosted by the Governor of City A, who had always shown favor toward the Robinson Conglomerate, hence Quentin's presence.
"Happy birthday, Governor Febastian," Quentin offered his greetings.
Febastian looked at Quentin and remarked, "You're here too. Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to attend my birthday party."
"Oh, it's my pleasure to receive your invitation," Quentin replied with a smile, exchanging pleasantries.
"You know how to talk. Well, have a few extra drinks tonight. Go on in; I'll come to find you later for a chat," Febastian said.
Quentin nodded, entering the house.
Though not fond of such gatherings, Quentin, being a businessman, understood the importance of networking in politics. He found a secluded spot to sit, surrounded by attendees of significance—politicians, celebrities, and successful entrepreneurs.
In essence, such birthday parties were all about networking, where people exchanged pleasantries, exchanged contact information for potential future collaborations.
Quentin shook his head in boredom, suddenly missing the scenes of dining with Lauren. Normally, at this hour, he would be having dinner with her, then strolling through the mansion's garden together.
Lost in his thoughts, Quentin felt a tap on his shoulder. Turning around, he saw Wendy, smiling brightly.
"Quentin, long time no see!" Wendy beamed.
"Yeah," Quentin nodded toward Wendy.
Fortunately, as this was a government event, security measures were tight, with no reporters or paparazzi in sight.
Wendy felt a bit awkward. "You're still as indifferent as ever! Haha, aren't you curious how I ended up here?"
Seating herself next to Quentin, Wendy looked at him with a radiant smile.
Quentin raised his glass, remarking, "You're a huge star; it's no surprise to find you here."
Wendy chuckled, "If it's such a challenge for me to meet Mr. Robinson, what kind of big star does that make me?"
Quentin stayed silent, understanding the underlying message Wendy was conveying. He had no romantic interest in Wendy and had never entertained the idea of a relationship with her. In his thoughts, there was only one face that persisted in his mind—her tears, her smiles, every aspect of her that he couldn't shake off.
