Once She Came Like a Flash novel Chapter 44

**Faith Didn’t Survive Time – by Aadi Sharma**
**Chapter 44**

Adam was taken aback; he had never imagined that Renee possessed the skill to play cards.

The truth was, her talent stemmed from her grandfather, a man whose reputation as a gambling legend had once echoed throughout their neighborhood. In his youth, he was often seen as a man blessed with extraordinary luck. However, behind that façade lay a masterful cheat, a con artist whose cunning had been honed and passed down through generations. Rumor had it that her great-great-grandfather had even owned a casino, a legacy that seemed to linger in the air around Renee.

As she stood there, a soft smile gracing her lips, Renee’s eyes sparkled with an infectious enthusiasm. “Mr. Zeller,” she began, her tone gentle and inviting, “do you think I could have a moment of your time to show you the Genome Tech robots? Just half an hour, perhaps?”

Jasper hadn’t anticipated that all her efforts tonight were aimed at showcasing Genome Tech. It seemed she remained blissfully unaware of the intricate connection that existed between him and Alison. Yet, in that moment, none of those complexities mattered.

He arched an eyebrow, his voice cool and incisive as he replied, “I don’t appreciate it when individuals blur the lines between business and pleasure.”

Renee felt herself freeze at his words. The chill in his demeanor made the past two hours feel like a complete waste of time. However, she was not one to easily concede defeat.

Determined to change the course of their interaction, she pressed on, “Alright then, let’s shift gears and discuss something more personal. You’ve saved my life twice—once here in the city and once on Seraph Island. No matter what happens, you will always be my lifesaver. Can I at least take you out for dinner to express my gratitude?”

They stood mere inches apart, the intensity of the moment palpable. Renee searched his eyes, hope flickering like a candle flame, waiting for him to respond.

“No.”

His refusal cut through the air, sharp and unyielding. There was no room for negotiation, no glimmer of hope to cling to.

A wave of despair washed over Renee.

This man was immovable, a fortress of stubbornness. What a formidable challenge he presented!

He took her hand in his, his thumb brushing over her smooth skin with a tenderness that felt out of place. With a warm smile, he replied, “No way. There’s no one else like Mr. Zeller in this country. Once we establish a connection with the Zeller family, the rise of the Graham family is assured, and it will all be thanks to you. Besides, you have shares in the company. What’s mine is yours.”

Renee chose not to disclose that she had already sold her shares in Ascend Group; it seemed irrelevant now.

Seated in a private room at the Carson Hotel, it was no surprise to find Renee once again next to Jasper. Throughout dinner, Adam shot her knowing glances, silently urging her to toast to Jasper, a signal she couldn’t ignore.

Business often thrived in the glow of shared drinks, and deals were more easily sealed when everyone was just a little tipsy.

“Mr. Zeller,” she began, her voice ringing with sincerity, “fate has brought us together. Here’s to you.”

Rising gracefully to her feet, she lifted her glass high, a warm smile illuminating her face as she directed her gaze toward Jasper.