Chapter 151

Vincent's expression grew somber as recollections he wished to forget emerged. "Why do you also assume I have feelings for Brinley?"

"Everyone notices how well you treat her," Sharon responded.

Vincent had always been quiet and withdrawn since childhood, and at times, even Sharon couldn't read his mind.

Vincent's brow furrowed just a little. "While others might be oblivious to the reason I treat Brinley well,you should know the answer well."

Sharon observed his figure, realizing for the first time how isolated her grandson appeared. The burden he bore-that unseen weight-had been suffocating him for years. He was only five when the incident hadhappened. Two lives were lost because of him.How còuld anyone possibly mnove past that?

"And what about Hannah? Do you still have feelings for her?" Sharon asked,her voice soft.

Vincent thought for a long moment before answering, "I don't know."

His connection with Hannah had always been about mutual compatibility. He didn't dislike her, and with his grandmother's fondness for her, marriage seemed like the natural progression.

Sharon sighed quietly, deciding to say nothing.

In Hannah's apartment in Sterling Heights, Felix dined with Hannah's family.

During the meal, Margaret and Raymond showed a keen interest in Felix, bombarding him with numerous questions.

Hannah attempted to intervene but struggled to ake any impact.

Once they finished their meal, Hannah eagerly guided Felix toward the neighborhood's exit. Feeling

a little embarrassed, she apologized, "Sorry if my parents were a bit too curious earlier."

Felix paused and glanced at her. "Not at all. I found them warm and welcoming."

"I'm relieved you didn't feel uncomfortable." Hannah didn't linger on the subject, assuming Felix wouldn't interact much with her parents in the future.

Hannah expressed her gratitude earnestly once more. "Thank you for today."

"I didn't do much." Felix seemed to have made up his mind about something, fixing her with a serious gaze."After the bidding meeting, I have something to tell you."

Felix stressed, "It's very important."

"Alright. I have something for you then," Hannah responded with a smile. Felix's ears flushed slightly, and he found it suddenly difficult to meet her eyes.

"Then it's a promise," he said, quickly hailing a taxi.Once inside, his heart raced uncontrollably.

After Felix departed, Hannah headed back home.

As the elevator doors opened, Hannah was surprised to see Miles. She hadn't seen much of him since their encounter on Dace Island.

She greeted him politely, "Mr. Whitaker!"

Miles acknowledged her with a nod.

Silence stretched between them in the small elevator space.

Hannah kept her gaze on the ascending floor numbers, wishing they would move faster.

"Let me clarify something," Miles suddenly said,startling Hannah.

VitraMind had just obtained the roster of participants in the upcoming bids, and Nova Tech appeared among the contenders.

"Our cooperation on Dace Island won't translate to preferential consideration for your organization,"Miles continued. "We stand by impartial standards and ensure identical conditions for all applicants."

"We absolutely acknowledge that, Mr. Whitaker.You can count on Nova Tech to deliver excellence!"Hannah's expression lit up with assurance, a faint grin tugging at her lips.

"You seem incredibly sure," Miles remarked, doubt subtly woven into his voice.

Hannah let out a laugh. "What you're seeing is the product of collective dedication. Confidence is necessary.Mr. Whitaker, I remember when you went solo to seek investors-you displayed certainty and grace."

"You've read quite a bit about me?" Miles lifted a brow with mild intrigue.

"Certainly.Since our firm places significant weight on

its future alliance with VitraMind, gaining insight felt important." Hannah glanced toward the rising floor number. "Mr. Whitaker, this is where | exit. I'll leave you here."

Miles stood momentarily bewildered. Hannah wasn't aligning with the image he had formed.