Lenny caught the implication behind Barney's words. Before Khloe could answer, he spoke first.
"Mr. Lemont, Mr. Hunt and Madam are essentially one. Madam also serves as the vice president of the Hunt Group, so she has full authority to handle the bid on behalf of the company. As for Mr. Hunt's personal situation, that falls under private matters. Isn't inquiring about it crossing a line?"
Having listened quietly until now, Lenny felt his blood boil. His words were blunt and impulsive, but Khloe couldn't help feeling satisfied. Barney's approach had been a naked test. Answering or not wouldn't benefit her—hesitation would signal guilt, evasion would signal consent.
Even if Nick's situation couldn't be kept hidden forever, at least during the bidding stage, nothing could compromise it. Any ripple that could affect the company's market value was unacceptable.
Barney didn't respond to Lenny. Khloe, meanwhile, decisively cast aside pretenses and left without even glancing back.
Yet, just as she exited the restaurant, Angela stepped out from another elevator, accompanied by Barney's assistant. The two passed each other by.
Angela entered the private room, finding Barney lost in thought.
"Barney."
Barney's eyes flicked up, startled. "You… what are you doing here?"
He immediately frowned at his assistant. "Why didn't you say anything?"
Hearing Khloe's earlier words, a sinking dread hit him. If Angela ran into Khloe, she would inevitably face repercussions. Barney was busy with the Hunt Group bid and had no time to deal with her.
The assistant opened his mouth to explain, but Angela interjected first. "I came suddenly—there was an urgent matter I needed to see you about."
"Go on out," Angela instructed the assistant, who promptly obeyed.
Given Barney's laser-focused personality, Angela assumed it had to be business-related. But if that were the case, the dinner wouldn't have looked like this.
Regardless of who it was, she couldn't let Barney engage further.
And besides… Barney was in the prime of his enthusiasm for her now; she had to seize the moment.
"No…"
"It's Khloe."
Angela froze, staring at Barney in confusion.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Billionaire's Match (by Tangy Candy)
This is the story that I like reading. The heroine got the hold of the situation right away. No humiliation, no injustice, which keep the readers feeling bad all the way while waiting for the right thing to settle in favor of the heroine. Good storyline,congrats writer!...