Remarried After I Secretly Divorced the CEO novel Chapter 228

**Title: When the Stars Forgot to Return My Wishes**
**Chapter 228**

Without a trace of politeness, Autumn shot back, her voice laced with a sharp edge. “Mr. Lewis, if memory serves me right, I never extended an invitation for a discussion.”

The unspoken message hung heavily in the air—Simon had barged in uninvited, and she had no desire to engage with him.

Simon’s response was a dismissive snort, cold and cutting. “Autumn, mark my words, you will come to regret your actions today.”

With that ominous declaration, he stormed out, slamming the door behind him with such force that the walls seemed to shudder.

Autumn let out a weary sigh, momentarily at a loss for words at his theatrical exit. She took a deliberate sip of water, trying to wash away the unpleasantness of the encounter, and steeled herself for the evening ahead as she prepared for bed.

Time passed, and the day of the expo finally dawned. As Autumn and Ethan stepped into the venue, they were met with a vibrant atmosphere already alive with energy. Groups of people mingled, their voices a low hum of excited chatter about the latest developments in their industry.

In the past, Autumn had attended similar events with Ethan but had always kept her distance, opting to navigate the crowd alone. This time, however, they entered side by side. Yet, regardless of whether she was alone or accompanied, Autumn had never been one to shy away from the throngs of people.

As soon as Ethan crossed the threshold, he was quickly enveloped by a swarm of eager attendees.

“Mr. Sharp, we’ve heard whispers that Vanguard is on the brink of unveiling a groundbreaking new project. Can you shed any light on it?” one man inquired, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

“Yes, Mr. Sharp. Four years ago, the AI diagnostic system your company launched sent ripples through the industry. We’re all on the edge of our seats, curious about what you have in store next.”

“I’ve heard that Mr. Lee will make an appearance today to kick off the bidding process for the new project. To be honest, I believe your company stands a strong chance of clinching it.”

Nods of agreement rippled through the group. “Absolutely. The AI diagnostic system developed by your team was even integrated at the national level. If anyone is poised to win this bid, it has to be Vanguard.”

Ethan offered a courteous smile, though he could feel the weight of their expectations. “You’re too kind. Remember, in a bidding war, everyone has an equal opportunity—nothing is ever guaranteed.”

“And let’s not forget, that AI diagnostic system wasn’t solely my creation. It was the brilliant work of a junior colleague.”

That single fact made them question the validity of Ethan’s claims—how much of what he said was genuine, and how much was mere embellishment?

At that moment, a young man with glasses standing behind the middle-aged leader wore an expression of disbelief.

“Mr. Sharp, surely you jest. Your talents are already at the pinnacle of this industry.”

“Even if your junior colleague possesses remarkable skills, she’s just a girl in her early twenties. How could she possibly eclipse your accomplishments?”

It was almost laughable. Their field was teeming with elite professionals, yet few were as young and accomplished as Ethan.

If what he claimed was true—if he truly had such an extraordinary junior colleague—then Vanguard should already be a dominant force in the industry.

Aside from the project that had been nationalized a few years back, Vanguard’s growth since then had been rather unremarkable in comparison.