8#08

8

Three days after our initial encounter, I crossed paths with Troy once more at a corporate event.

He had journeyed to Chicago on a friend's advice, personally seeking the Hoffman Group's aid to rescue his failing enterprise.

As I neared the entrance, I caught snippets of conversation from inside, "Don't fret, Mr. Angelo. Although Miss Hoffman is youthful, they are incredibly competent and have been steering the Hoffman Group for quite some time."

"Should they decide to assist and back your venture, your company will surely bounce back! It all hinges on whether Miss Hoffman is inclined to help."

I entered the room, causing all heads to turn. Mr. Anderson, who managed one of my subsidiaries, promptly welcomed me with a grin, "Miss Hoffman, you've arrived!"

He subtly motioned for Troy to approach and propose a toast. Troy carefully made his way over, wine glass in hand.