He was dropping hints on purpose, hoping Noreen would sense his feelings for her.


    But Noreen just assumed he was showing up as an investor, and thought nothing more of <b>it</b>.


    “Mr. Wilder, this way please.” She personally led him inside.


    As Dn watched her walk ahead, he couldn’t help but sigh inwardly.


    How could she still be so oblivious, just like back in school?


    If she hadn’t juste out of a seven–year rtionship, exhausted in every way-


    If she didn’t need time to recover-


    Maybe she’d be ready for something new.


    Maybe he wouldn’t have to keep hiding how he felt.


    But after waiting seven years, what’s another day or two?


    At least she was throwing herself into work, not falling apart over a breakup.


    Meanwhile-


    Jude made a grand entrance at the SkyMindunch party, carrying a massive bouquet that turned every head in the room.


    As soon as Bianca saw the sunflowers, she understood his message and smiled. “Thank you, Jude.”


    “You didn’t have to go all out. Your being here is more than enough.”


    If you wanted to know what ss looked like–this was it.


    Jude only admired Bianca more. She had the poise of someone born to lead a family empire, and he respected her all the more for it.


    “I’m here to show my support<b>, </b>so I had to make it memorable! Oh, and I got you a gift as well.”


    He handed her a diamond ne–perhaps not as extravagant as the jewelry she was already wearing, but it was still an impressive gesture.


    “Thank you.”


    “I just walked by the InnoCore press conference–ce was empty! Noreen really is about to host the flop of the year,” Jude said, eager to share the news.


    Bianca had expected as much and didn’t seem surprised.


    “She made such a scene at the summit, I thought she’d at least make a ssh. Guess she fizzled out even faster than I expected.”


    The more Jude talked, the happier he grew. Whatever frustration he’d felt before was <b>gone</b><b>, </b>reced by a sense of anticipation, ready to watch the drama unfold.


    Bianca just smiled. “In investment banking, failed projects are the norm. People without the skills just


    <b>19:07 </b>


    can’t make the cut.”


    “You really are the best, Bianca!” Jude said, utterly impressed. “No joke, if I ever got into WT Business School like you, my dad would throw a month–long party back in Rivercrest City.”


    Bianca’s pride in her education was obvious, and she replied with a touch of superiority, “The rules set your minimum, your ability determines your maximum. At the end of the day, Noreen’s just got a regr degree–she’s bound to fall short in some areas.”


    “So basically, Noreen’s here to set a new low,” Jude concluded.


    Bianca just smirked, keeping her opinions to herself.


    Instead she asked, “Where’s Dn? Has he arrived yet?”


    “No idea,” Jude said. “I messaged him this morning and tried calling, but he didn’t reply. He’s probably busy.”


    “But no matter how busy he is, he’ll definitely show up for your celebration!”


    Bianca nodded in agreement.


    As more guests arrived, Bianca received a steady stream of congrattions.


    Healy showed up a littleter than Jude, also bringing a gift.


    “You guys are too thoughtful. I’m just happy you could make it,” Bianca said.


    Healy smiled, “It’s the least I could do. But I have something to take care ofter, so I might have to leave early. Just wanted to say congrattions in person.”


    “Thank you<i>,” </i>Bianca said, epting his good wishes with a smile.


    Jude nced around. “Where’s Seth? Haven’t seen him all night. How could he miss such an important day?”