Chapter 408
Robert looked up and stared at Pennleigh for a moment, then said, “You look familiar but I can’t remember your name… Have we met?”
“Yes, I’m surprised you remember me,” Pennleigh said. “On the spring and summer show three years ago, you said that I’m a talented young designer, and that became my motivation to start my own company and achieve what I have now. You changed my life.”
Roberto had met so many designers throughout his life, and there were a few who were talented. He was always generous with his compliments, so he nodded and said, “You’re the reason behind your own success. If you didn’t have the mindset and determination, what others say wouldn’t have helped. I didn’t change your life; you did all the work.”
Hesper didn’t know that there was a history between Pennleigh and Roberto, so when Pennleigh followed her, it was probably influenced by Roberto…
“Ms. Riviera, are you working at Antellon? Maybe I could be of help.”
Hesper was still zoned out, but when she heard his voice, she snapped back and shook her head.” I’m still a student. I’m studying in Fredonia U and will be living there in the near future.”
“Oh, Fredonia U is the best school for design. You’ll do well,” Pennleigh said. He looked at the time then at the two. “Do I have the honor of buying lunch for the both of you? I have some partners here. If you don’t have time today, we might not have the chance anymore.”
Roberto looked at Hesper. Hesper saw the anticipation in Pennleigh’s eyes, so she agreed. Alright.”
Firstly, it was because she had a good impression of Pennleigh after meeting him twice. He was a gentleman, so Hesper decided to give him another chance. Secondly, he was now someone who was out of her plan because he didn’t ask questions even though he had seen her face change.
That was suspicious.
Hesper didn’t want to be negative about it, but after all that she had gone through, she knew she should be more cautious so no one would be able to take advantage of her.
Hesper wasn’t at all familiar with Antellon or Fredonia, so she quietly listened while Pennleigh and Roberto made plans. The mist dissipated outside the window and Hesper saw that it was turning dark outside while her mind was blank.
“We’re here.” Pennleigh got out of the car and then held the door open for Hesper. “This way, Ms. Rivera.”
Hesper wasn’t very used to how polite he was, so it felt like romantic gesture in the night breeze. Hesper didn’t say anything but just nodded. “Thank you.”
It was a quiet meal. Hesper sat and ate her food while Roberto and Pennleigh discussed about what was going on in the industry. That all felt distant to Hesper, but she was happy to listen in.
In contrast, Hesper knew how the market was doing better than the two men because Lane Holdings was involved in a lot of industries. She was more sensitive about how things were gonig
to change.
Hesper missed the carrot with her fork and it scraped the plate, making a screech and pulling her back to reality.
“…I’m sorry.” Hesper looked at the two men and was a little embarrassed. “Carry on please.”
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