?Chapter 1268:


    “If it suits you, your son and Miss Hond are also wee to join us,” ude added.


    Jayden’s face stayed neutral, but for a moment, a flicker of hesitation crossed his expression. He was about to decline when his phone rang.


    It was Edwin Flores on the line, letting Jayden know that everyone was already gathered, waiting for him, the guest of honor, to arrive.


    When Jayden had been in trouble, his so-called colleagues had kept their distance, afraid they’d be pulled down with him.


    But now that he was in the clear, they were all too eager to get in his good books.


    The world of politics was a dangerous game, far different from any other profession.


    And with Edwin calling personally, Jayden knew he couldn’t outright refuse without making things awkward. So, he agreed, though reluctantly.


    After hanging up, Jayden turned to Jules and Corrine, his face serious. “You two should go home.”


    “Why the rush?” ude asked, his fingers casually twirling the ring on his right hand, a small smile ying at the corners of his mouth. “It’ste. If you’re free, why not join us? There won’t be any outsiders tonight.”


    The dinner, disguised as a wee-back party, was really about making deals and securing loyalty.


    When ude said there were no outsiders, it was already a sign of respect for Corrine and Jules.


    Jayden’s grip on his phone tightened. He was about to refuse when, unexpectedly, Corrine smiled and said, “Sure.”


    Since ude had his sights set on her, there was no use in avoiding it. It was better to face him directly and see what he was up to.


    Jayden hadn’t expected her to agree so quickly. His expression changed just a bit, and he gave her a look full of unspoken meaning. Corrine met his gaze with a calm, reassuring smile.


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    At Linosie Restaurant, the private dining room was nestled halfway up a hill, its red walls perfectly blending with the surrounding lush greenery, creating a secluded paradise.


    As they entered, everyone stood to greet Jayden, offering sympathy for what he had endured.


    Corrine quietly scanned the room, recognizing several officials, including Driscoll, who had been at Chelsea’s house a few days ago.


    Uninterested in their ttering smiles, she found a quiet corner and sat down.


    By chance, she ended up sitting directly across from ude.


    She paused for a moment, their eyes meeting.


    From a distance, ude lifted his cup and gave her a slight, almost imperceptible toast.


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