She Left She Thrived She’s Worth Billions novel Chapter 522

"I know Stellaris PharmaTech took a huge hit recently because of my sister's incompetence, but things are different now. My father has handed full control of R&D over to me. Once I successfully cultivate the Silver-Leaf Orchid Variant, the issues with the specific cold medicine will be resolved in no time." Aria leaned closer to Gabriel as she spoke, smoothly slipping her sleek business card into the breast pocket of his tailored suit. The heavy scent of her perfume washed over him, so cloying it made Gabriel want to cough.

"Since the Royce Group has decided to let you take the reins on R&D, I'll be waiting for your good news," Gabriel replied, his tone conversational but sharp. "But... if memory serves, the Royce Group's nutrient solution is strictly internal. Without that exclusive formula, are you really so certain you can cultivate the Silver-Leaf Orchid Variant? I have my doubts."

"And if I do succeed, would Mr. Whitmore be willing to share Stellaris's extraction tech with my studio?"

Aria's brazen request made Gabriel raise an eyebrow.

"What exactly do you mean by that, Ms. Royce? Are you blatantly trying to steal Stellaris's core technology?"

Seeing Gabriel's expression turn unyielding, Aria quickly offered an apologetic, honeyed smile.

"I wouldn't dare, Mr. Whitmore."

She clasped her hands together in front of her chest, putting on a delicate, timid act designed to evoke a man's protective instincts.

"To be completely honest with you, my sister and I are currently fighting for control of the Royce Group. That's no secret. I want Stellaris PharmaTech's extraction technology to prove just how effective my new variant can be. Rest assured, if you help me, I won't just make sure you're satisfied with the project... I'll make sure you're completely satisfied in other ways, too."

Aria gestured subtly toward the pocket where she had tucked her card.

Gabriel had seen this kind of blatant, naked seduction countless times before.

Aria was only being so bold because she had heard the rumors that Gabriel was a notorious playboy who never turned down a willing woman.

After all, he was the Vice President of Stellaris PharmaTech. Sleeping with him wouldn't be a loss for her.

It would secure a powerful connection and give her access to more of Stellaris's internal data and manufacturing secrets.

Melanie was still the lead on the specific cold medicine project.

A cynical, predatory smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth.

He leaned in close, deliberately taking a slow breath as if inhaling the scent of her perfume.

"Since you're being so upfront, Ms. Royce, don't you think you slipped the wrong thing into my pocket?"

With a fluid motion, he pulled her business card from his suit and dropped it carelessly onto the floor.

Aria's face fell, her eyes wide with confusion.

Gabriel's gaze was calm and utterly composed.

"You shouldn't have given me a business card... you should have given me a room key."