Chapter 734

Marin's words hit Penelope like a freight train. Since she had only recently taken over the company, she genuinely hadn't noticed these structural flaws. But if Marin was right, this was a massive issue that couldn't be ignored.

It reminded her of Stone Group. Back when she had dragged Stone Group out of crippling debt, her strategy was exactly that—picking up the scraps. She took the small contracts alongside the big ones to rebuild their foundation.

Lost in thought, Penelope glanced over at Marin and saw her quietly eating. It was clear Marin had said her piece and didn't plan on lecturing her further.

In truth, this was only scratching the surface.

Marin saw deeper, more systemic problems within Zenith Group, but those weren't things she could explain over a quick lunch.

"Marin, I am really glad I met you."

Penelope raised her glass of water. Marin lifted hers, and they shared a knowing smile before taking a sip.

"If there's ever anything I can help you with, just say the word," Marin offered.

"I will. I definitely won't be polite about it."

Lunch was a resounding success. In the afternoon, Marin even took her sightseeing at a famous local landmark. They were planning to grab drinks that evening when Nexthrust's CEO-Marin's husband-called.

As Marin listened, her expression soured. When she finally hung up, she let out a cold scoff.

"Lavinia, that secretary. I went into the office first thing this morning, tore her a new one, and was about to fire her. But my husband told me she's an alumni from his college, and his old professor specifically asked him to look out for her. He absolutely refused to let me fire her."

At this, Marin ground her teeth.

"He just called to say that Lavinia came over to our house and cooked a huge dinner as an apology. He's insisting I come home to eat so she can make amends."

Penelope's mind raced. "This little secretary is definitely playing a game."

Marin let out a heavy sigh. "But she can only put on a show if someone builds the stage for her."

"So, are you going back?"

Marin narrowed her eyes. "I might as well go back and see what kind of

performance they have planned."

She looked over at Penelope. "Care to join me for the show?"

Penelope nodded. "Sure. With me there, she won't be the only outsider at the table."

Marin's apartment was a sprawling

luxury penthouse located right

across from the city center. When Penelope followed her inside, the lights the living room and hallways were dim Only the kitchen and dining area were brightly lit.

It sounded lively inside. The people in the kitchen didn't even hear them enter.

"Ellison, these honey mustard shrimp are my specialty. Here, taste one."

The kitchen door was wide open. From their angle, they had a perfect view of the sweet-looking girl holding a piece of shrimp with her fingers and lifting it directly to the tallman's lips. Content Belongs

The man, dressed in tailored suit pants and a crisp white shirt, had been helping her prep. Seeing the food offered to him, he smiled affectionately, opened his mouth, and took the bite Instantly, his face lit up. "Mmm, this is incredible!"

The girl pouted playfully. "You didn't even chew it yet!" "Everything you've ever fed me has been amazing."

"I wonder if Marin will like it."

"Anyone with tastebuds would love it."

"But Marin seems to really dislike me."

"Don't worry. I've got your back."