Chapter 1213

+15 BONUS

No, to put it another way – he could find someone suitable.

After settling this matter, Daniel’s mood improved greatly.

When his secretary came in with water, she immediately noticed how different he seemed compared to the past few days. Even the way he looked at her carried a gentler expression. Unable to resist, she asked, “Mr. Lewis, did something good happen recently?”

“Of course,” Daniel replied with a smile. “Just handle the tasks I’ve given you properly. If you’re good, I’m good, and everyone benefits.”

The secretary’s face turned a little awkward. She had thought she could take advantage of his good mood to get closer to him, but now it didn’t seem possible at all. Something about Daniel felt different – less easy to manipulate. He hadn’t been like this before, had he? She grew uncertain, but because of what he’d just said, she didn’t dare push too far.

“Then… Mr. Lewis, will you be free tonight?” she asked, giving him an ambiguous look, her tone clearly an invitation.

Daniel swallowed but said nothing.

“Enough. Just focus on your work, don’t ask if I’m free tonight.” He gave a slight cough. “If there’s nothing else, you can leave. I’ve still got things to do.”

Seeing how unresponsive he was, the secretary had no choice but to drop it. He was definitely not as easygoing as before, and she couldn’t figure out what he had gone through to change so much – even to the point of ignoring her advances. She let out a cold huff, stomped her foot, and left.

Daniel rubbed his temples. This new secretary of his still lacked awareness. The last one had been clueless too, but at least not like this. But she was already this bold? She hadn’t even been working long, and she was asking if he was free tonight? Daniel narrowed his eyes. If it weren’t for the mess with the project lately, he really would have taught this woman a lesson. In broad daylight, in the middle of the office, how could she dare to say something like that? And once it happened once, it would surely happen again. But with the project weighing on him, he held himself back. Women would always be around, but projects were different. If this one failed, his entire cash flow could collapse. This time was nothing like before. Even with Lucas covering him, it was still his own project. Others could provide a safety net, but the losses would be his alone to bear. He knew well enough the difference between making money and making more.

Tessa stood outside Daniel’s company building, giving herself a silent pep talk. This time, she had to secure the project. No matter the cost, she had to prove to her mother that even without that wretched Aurora, she could land it herself. Taking a deep breath, she strode confidently inside.

The receptionist, spotting her, quickly called out, “Miss, please wait a moment.”

Hearing the voice, Tessa stopped and looked at the receptionist in confusion. “What is it? Is something wrong?”

“Hello, miss. May I ask who you’re here to see?” the receptionist asked politely, though with a hint of distance.