Chapter 238

Harvey arched an eyebrow and let out a hearty laugh. "Today is about unwinding and enjoying ourselves, Ms. Graham. Let's save the business discussions for another time. If the opportunity comes up, I'd be happy to visit Graham Group for a tour. There's no rush to make a decision."

Frustration welled up in Angela's chest. This was his response after everything she'd done to convince him. She had to remind herself to stay collected and not let her emotions show.

Since things had already come this far, she forced a pleasant smile. "Sure, Mr. Collins, you're welcome anytime. I'll personally show you around."

They left the lounge one after the other. A group of people was gathered outside, clearly waiting for them.

Dexter cast Angela a questioning glance, silently asking whether she had convinced Harvey.

Angela had no time to reply. She stepped aside to call Clara, instructing her to enforce all company policies strictly, leaving no room for favoritism or misconduct.

If Harvey decided to visit Graham Group on a whim, Angela had to make sure everything ran like clockwork. They had to be polished and ready to impress.

Dexter approached her and asked, "So, he's not agreeing? It's no big deal. You can always ask me nicely if you can't secure the project. I could find you something equivalent to MK Corporation."

There was a note of consideration in his voice. Angela almost laughed-not at his words, but at his tone.

He obviously didn't want her to feel disheartened and was trying to offer comfort. Yet his pride stopped him from being entirely direct, making his effort come across as caring but somewhat awkward.

"Thank you, Mr. Bamford," Angela said, lifting her chin slightly with a smile. "But I'm already halfway there."

Dexter paused, narrowing his eyes at her. He was thinking about something when he noticed the warmth in Angela's eyes fade instantly.

Something was off about her. There was certainly more going on than she was letting on.

Mia came over and lowered her voice. "Hey, how did it go with him? He's got an ego, but he's serious about his work. He'll be generous if he partners with you."

Angela gave her a grateful look. "No matter how this plays out, thank you for everything today, Ms. Spencer."

Mia looked a little surprised, almost flattered. She had never seen Angela act like this before.

They walked side by side for a while. Finally, Angela could no longer hold back and asked Mia why she was so intent on being her friend.

Mia paused for a second, then gave a wry smile. Haven't you already figured it out? Why ask something you already know? My background isn't remarkable, and I have no family. I'm nowhere near the Jewells' level, and I don't have many friends in this circle.

"So I wanted to befriend you. At least then, I wouldn't have to show up to every event alone. It gets dull going by myself."

Angela responded with a noncommittal smile. She stared at Mia's bright, beautiful face and was suddenly reminded of her own past.

She, too, had once been shut out by others. Even now, some still looked down on her, assuming she was only with Dexter to climb the social ladder. But she didn't care about that.

Angela suddenly realized that she and Mia were quite similar in some ways. Since

Mia harbored no ill intentions, there was no reason not to befriend her.