Chapter 112
Howard quickly adjusted his mood and extended his hand with a smile. “Welcome”
Connor shook his hand politely. “Mr. Howard.”
Howard and his assistant took Connor and his team to inspect the newly renovated flagship store. It was located in the most prominent part of the mali and surrounded by numerous international trendy brands.
After the inspection, the group headed to the reception.
“Actually, Passos Corporation’s malls are located in even better spots. Why choose mine?” Howard asked curiously, smiling. “It’s a waste not to use one’s own resources.”
Connor smiled faintly. He didn’t answer directly, but instead posed a question, “Mr. Howard, why do you think we chose this place?”
“Our mall is right in the city center, attracting a high footfall and strong consumer spending power, which can bring more business opportunities and customers your way,” Howard replied with a smile.
“Although Passos Corporation’s malls are well–located, we are looking for a broader market and a younger demographic,” Connor explained.
Howard nodded in agreement. “How come Camila didn’t come today?” he asked.
“She had other work commitments,” Connor replied, his expression unreadable.
Howard tilted his head and asked, “Does she really have a boyfriend?”
Connor slightly narrowed his eyes, his tone lazy, “Probably.”
“Probably?” Howard frowned, “You said she did before, and now it’s probably?”
“Her colleagues in the secretarial pool saw her on a date a few days ago,” Connor responded in a deep voice.
Howard looked disappointed upon hearing this news and sighed. At that moment, their conversation seemed distant, as if each was lost in his own thoughts.
“As long as she’s not married, I have a chance,” Howard stated boldly.
Connor paused, his hand holding the mug, and looked up. After a moment of silence, he took out a cigarette pack and lit one.
“I know you’re her boss, but you can’t interfere with her freedom to date,” Howard said with a chuckle.
“I really like Camila,” Howard admitted openly. “From the first time I met her, I knew she was the one for me. I don’t want to miss this opportunity, so as long as she’s not married, I’ll keep pursuing her.”
Connor tapped his cigarette ash into the ashtray. “Matters of the heart flow naturally, like water. You can’t force them.”
He slightly lifted his gaze towards the window. Then, he glanced at his watch and said to Alan, “Have the car ready.” His tone carried an undeniable authority.
“Right away,” Alan responded quickly..
“Leaving already?” Howard asked, puzzled.
“There’s more to attend to at the company. I’ll visit another time,” Connor replied casually.
***
Camila printed out the documents sent from the branch office and placed them in Connor’s office.
Connor’s office was cleaned after work hours, so Camila neatly arranged the documents on his desk, noticing a few cigarette butts in the ashtray. She stared at them for a few seconds, then wrapped the cigarette butts in a tissue and tossed them in the trash.
Previously there were only occasionally one or two butts, but recently, for some reason, Connor seemed to be smoking more frequently, though he rarely smoked in front of her.
After finishing up, she left the office, softly closing the door behind her.