The Wife He Dumped, The Queen She Returned As novel Chapter 16

His voice grew even softer. "Don't make a scene here. You like islands, don't you? When we get back, pick one out and I'll buy it for you. Alright?"

Chloe hadn't had the energy to fight him, but his words sparked pure fury. "I'm not making a scene! I don't care who you want to thank or who you're bringing into your company. If you're so terrified I'll embarrass you, then let me leave!"

The commotion drew the attention of several bystanders, who openly stared in their direction. Chloe spun on her heel and walked away without looking back.

Preston stood rooted to the spot, his face incredibly dark. The victorious high of his successful keynote had completely evaporated.

A few tactful executives quickly approached to smooth things over. "Mr. Hayes, your speech was spectacular. Vantage Corp has a limitless future. If you don't mind me asking, who was the brilliant interpreter you secured for today?"

Jenna happened to walk up at that exact moment. Intent on paving the way for her, Preston replied smoothly, "It was Caroline Monet. Miss Cameron personally invited her."

The executives immediately broke into smiles and showered Jenna with compliments, praising her extensive connections and impeccable taste.

Jenna was momentarily stunned, shocked that Chloe hadn't exposed the truth to Preston. Recovering quickly, she laughed it off with false modesty. "Oh, it's nothing major. Caroline just looks out for me."

Catching the conversation, the Chairman of Nexus Global strode over from the edge of the crowd. The surrounding executives immediately fell silent, stepping aside respectfully to clear a path. "Good evening, Mr. Lawson!"

Mr. Lawson's gaze locked directly onto Jenna. He cut straight to the chase. "You know Caroline Monet?"

Deeply flattered, Jenna nodded eagerly. "Yes, I do."

Mr. Lawson cast a cool glance at Preston. "Mr. Hayes, you're a lucky man to have such capable help. I'm hosting an international summit next week. If you can get Caroline Monet to interpret, I'll personally ensure Vantage Corp wins the contract you've been fighting Shaw Holdings for."

Jenna's initial thrill quickly morphed into sheer panic. The color drained from her face.

Just then, a familiar figure appeared beside her. Quentin stepped up. "Where to? I'll give you a ride."

Chloe couldn't explain why, but his sudden presence filled her with a strange sense of guilt. "N-No thanks. I already ordered a ride. They're waiting out front."

Quentin stared at her intently. "You're going to make a driver wait for an hour? They aren't going to be as patient as I am." The subtle edge of grievance in his voice caught her off guard.

Unsure of how to respond, Chloe relented in embarrassment. "Then... I'll take you up on it."

The silence inside the car was bordering on stifling. Suddenly, Quentin broke it. "Chloe, since I did you a favor, shouldn't you do one for me?"

Chloe blinked, completely lost as to what he was plotting. "What kind of favor?"