Noelle nodded. "I know that, but their company is small and not really in the scope of consideration. I didn't think you'd change anything because of them."
Charles heard her and smiled slightly. He got up, walked behind Noelle, and placed his hands on her shoulders, gently massaging them.
Noelle looked up, surprised by Charles' actions. She was about to pat his hand and ask him to sit down when Charles placed one hand over hers. "You seemed uncomfortable from working with your head down for so long," he noted.
Noelle blinked, then smiled softly. "Alright. Thank you, Charlie."
She realized she had indeed been hunched over for too long. Her shoulders and back were sore and numb. She had not expected Charles to notice such small details.
"I'm the kind of person who doesn't like anyone having control over my lifeline," Charles said as he continued to massage her shoulders with just the right amount of pressure, making her feel comfortable.
She tilted her head to look into his eyes as he explained, "Joseph approached my grandfather. Back then, Layla owed them a favor. Naturally, it needs to be repaid. My grandfather is quite traditional, and since Joseph's wife is also a Hoffman, there's a certain level of consideration to be maintained."
"That makes sense, but as far as I know, Collosus Group has already given Frotconn special treatment under the table. Despite this, Frotconn hasn't made any progress over the years. I don't think Frotconn is worth the effort."
"That's why I abandoned their proposal and went straight to outside partners."
Noelle suddenly understood. "So, you brought in George. On one hand, you've worked with George before, and Collosus Group's team is familiar with him, so no one would have any objections.
"On the other hand, collaborating with an outsider maximizes potential benefits."
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