The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 256

Chapter 256

A 94

That evening, I stood in my closet, fingers running over fabrics as I carefully selected appropriate attire. This wasn’t just a social event

but my first appearance as a Harper Group executive at an important business meeting. My hands lingered on a deep blue silk slip dress, finally pairing it with a crisp white blazer–professional yet feminine. Each choice felt deliberate, armor I was assembling piece by piece.

My fingers trembled slightly as I fastened my mother’s pearl necklace around my neck. I always wore it for important occasions, the cool touch of the pearls against my skin bringing a familiar comfort. Standing before the mirror, I slowly applied a bold red lipstick, the familiar ritual helping to calm my nerves. I studied my reflection, noting how tired my eyes looked despite my efforts.

At that moment, I felt a strange calmness wash over me, replacing the turmoil of emotions. Devon’s tender companionship at the hospital now seemed like a distant memory, while the family crisis pulled me back to cold reality. Yet something had shifted inside me. I was no longer the Aria who could only retreat in the face of adversity. The thought brought a subtle change to my posture–shoulders back, chin

slightly higher.

I picked up my phone and sent Sofia a message: “Meeting Calvin Reed tonight. Any suggestions?” After sending it, the screen remained blank with no reply. I sighed, a wave of loneliness washing over me. Sofia was probably busy with her mother, but her absence left a void. I set the phone down, squared my shoulders, and pushed the feeling aside. Tonight, I would have to stand on my own.

The five–star New York hotel lobby buzzed with conversation as I arrived. I felt eyes turn toward me as I moved through the crowd, my steps measured and deliberate despite my racing heart. Anna followed closely, whispering urgently: “That’s Calvin Reed. You must convince him to renew the advertising contract. He has a particular preference for digital marketing.”

Calvin Reed stood in the center of the exhibition hall, commanding attention without effort. In his twenties, impeccably dressed in a suit, with sharp eyes that missed nothing. I took a deep breath, my chest tight with anxiety, and approached him with what I hoped appeared as confidence. “Mr. Reed, I’m Aria Harper. Delighted to finally meet you. I’ve been following your innovative attempts at integrating blockchain with traditional industries.”

Reed looked me up and down, his eyes revealing a dismissive assessment. The familiar look–one I’d seen countless times when men underestimated me–sparked a flare of determination in my chest. I maintained eye contact, refusing to be the first to look away.

“Aria Harper?” he raised an eyebrow. “William’s daughter?”

“Yes, I’m representing Harper Group at this event,” I maintained my smile, though my jaw clenched slightly at being reduced to merely ‘William’s daughter.‘ I continued, my voice growing stronger with each word. “You may not be aware, but our digital marketing team just completed research on applying NFT technology to brand loyalty systems. I believe it aligns perfectly with Reed Group’s blockchain

strategy.”

Hearing the technical terminology, Reed’s expression subtly changed. The dismissiveness gave way to a hint of surprise, then cautious interest. He reassessed me, returning my handshake with a firmer grip. Though his attitude remained guarded, his tone gained a measure of respect. “I didn’t expect William to send his daughter to discuss business. I’m curious about your understanding of this field.”

“I’m more than William’s daughter, Mr. Reed,” I said, a current of quiet determination running beneath my words, “I believe we have many business topics to discuss.”