Chapter 534
Chapter 534:
Before Alisha could reply, Rayden gently let go of her arm and nudged her toward Ashton.
Alisha blushed, whispering playfully, “Dad! Why are you giving him special treatment? What if people get the wrong idea?”
Rayden laughed. “Isn’t Ashton here because of you? It’s only fitting you host him.”
With a chuckle, Rayden moved on to welcome other guests, leaving the pair alone. Alisha rolled her eyes at her father but dutifully escorted Ashton into the banquet hall.
Having previously met, they quickly engaged in easy conversation, and Alisha’s initial shyness soon faded as she led Ashton to his seat.
As they walked, Alisha carefully pointed out various guests, warning Ashton to tread carefully.
“That man there is the director of Staville Revenue Service. It’s best not to upset him, or your company might get in trouble. And that man, the director of Market Regulation, is known for his quick temper. Cross him, and don’t be surprised to see his inspectors at your company’s door every other day!”
Amused by Alisha’s discreet yet clear warnings, Ashton could not help but smile to himself.
The truth was, most of the high-ranking officials they encountered were already familiar with Ashton. Several had even considered approaching him to exchange greetings; however, a simple look from Ashton effectively discouraged them, as he preferred not to highlight his identity. Yet, Alisha seemed unaware of the officials’ hesitant reactions and continued to focus solely on Ashton.
In contrast to the government officials who mingled freely, the wealthy businessmen at the event acted with more caution.
Given the presence of Staville’s influential leaders, the businessmen naturally gravitated toward each other, conversing quietly.
gαℓησν𝒆𝓁s．çоm takes you away
After introducing the government officials, Alisha’s eyes lit up as she turned to Ashton, saying, “Hey Ashton, since you’re the general manager at your firm, let me introduce you to some fellow business leaders. They might be valuable for future collaborations!”
Leading Ashton over to where the businessmen congregated, Alisha started making introductions.
They soon stopped before a middle-aged man showing signs of a receding hairline.
“Meet Mr. Egan Marquez, chairman of Sup Group and leader of the Marquez family,” Alisha said.
At this point, Ashton, who had been casually exchanging pleasantries, suddenly became more alert.
This was his first face-to-face encounter with the patriarch of the Marquez family, a significant figure within the Dark Night Organization, since arriving in Staville.
Ashton’s young appearance and the company of the police director’s daughter naturally drew attention.
A few businessmen were unfamiliar with Ashton; they only knew of him as a newcomer whose company had recently had a run-in with the Marquez family.
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