Chapter 75
Chapter 75
13
The ballroom was bustling with activity, the crowd a mix of high–profile executives and polished representatives. A man in a bright red Tang suit approached Izzy, standing out against the sea of black and grey. His embroidered gold cuffs and subtle but impeccable stitching spoke of wealth and taste. Holding a delicate champagne flute, he raised it toward Izzy with a warm, knowing smile.
“Miss Rossi.“. he began, inclining his head slightly in greeting. “Its always a pleasure to see you, especially in such company.”
Izzy turned, immediately recognizing him. “Mr. Koh,” she said, offering a slight bow as she accepted his congratulations. “It’s good to see you again.”
They had first met during one of her overseas negotiations. He had been a potential investor at the time, and though the deal hadn’t progressed, a mutual respect had developed between them.
“Congratulations on leading this project,” Mr. Koh said, his tone as polished as his attire. “I’ve had the privilege of reviewing your proposal. Quite a few influential figures are impressed by your work.”
Izzy smiled humbly, bowing her head slightly. “Thank you, Mr. Koh. That means a lot, though I still have much to learn.”
He laughed lightly. “I do appreciate humility, Miss Rossi, but let me share a little secret with you.” He leaned in slightly, the golden embroidery of his suit catching the light. “The board has already made their decision. The official announcement will be made tonight.”
Izzy raised an eyebrow. “You seem very well–informed, Mr. Koh
He swirled his champagne gently. “Let’s just say I have a knack for observing outcomes before they’re publicly declared.”
Izzy held back a smirk, nodding politely. Mr. Koh was based in Taiwan. She wouldn’t be surprised if he knew a lot about this bidding. “Thank you for sharing that with me. I suppose I’ll find out soon enough.”
Mr. Koh raised his glass again before stepping back. “Indeed, Miss Rossi. Enjoy the rest of the evening. I have a feeling this will be a memorable night for you.”
Izzy inclined her head again as Mr. Koh disappeared into the crowd. She clutched her champagne flute tighter as she turned toward Anna, who stood behind her. “Find out if Mr. Koh was telling the truth,” she said.
“Yes, Miss,” Anna nodded and soon left her side.
Soon enough, Anna came back with some news. “It seems that Mr. Koh’s words were true, Miss. Tonight, they will also announce who won the bidding.”
Izzy frowned. Usually, it took a week or two before the results were announced. Cases like this one were unique. She could think of a few reasons why they would immediately announce the winner, but she chose not to dwell on it. She also couldn’t say much about this matter, as she wasn’t familiar with how everything worked on this side of the world.
What was more important was the fact that she had done her best on her proposal. She had polished it before submitting it days ago. All she could do now was wait.
Instead of overthinking, she decided to focus on the present. She needed to make the most of this opportunity to network.
She approached a group of businessmen, exchanging polite handshakes and brief introductions. In the past, she would have been in the background, assisting Calen as he took the lead. But tonight, she was representing herself.
As she finished speaking with one group, a voice interrupted her
“Miss Rossi.”
1/3
Chapter 75
Izzy turned to see Miss Johnson, the COO and heiress of Johnson and Co. Construction. Their paths had crossed before, and Izzy was well aware of her reputation. Known for her sharp wit, Miss Johnson was also the woman who had an obvious interest in Calen. Their interactions had always been combative with Miss Johnson constantly finding faults in Izzy and her trying to avoid the woman.
In those instances, Izzy had chosen to rise above the remarks, maintaining a professional demeanor. She had refrained from retaliating, unwilling to tarnish Calen’s reputation or the company’s image by causing a scene.
“Miss Johnson.” Izzy greeted with a polite sinile. This wasn’t the first encounter, and Izzy had a feeling it wouldn’t be their
last.
Miss Johnson stopped in front of her. “I couldn’t help but notice you’re here alone. Where is Mr. Weiss? I thought the two of you were always together.” Izzy immediately noticed the sarcasm in the woman’s voice but chose to ignore it. The news about what happened during that event must have already spread in their circle.
“I wouldn’t know, Miss Johnson.” Izzy smiled. “After all, I’m not his mother.”
Miss Johnson’s expression hardened for a moment before she let out a short laugh. “Well, I suppose it doesn’t matter. But I have to say, you seem very comfortable here without him. Quite the bold move.”
“Thank you Izzy replied. “Boldness is fitting for the occasion, wouldn’t you agree?”
Miss Johnson’s eyes narrowed slightly. “So, it’s true then? He cheated on you, and now you’re being vindictive. Taking this project from him must have been satisfying.”
“Rumors are easy to spread, Miss Johnson.” Izzy kept her tone calm. “If you’re implying that I’ve taken anything unfairly I suggest you speak to the board. They’ll tell you why I’m leading this project.”
Miss Johnson chuckled. “Miss Rossi is really too serious. I was simply joking around.”
know.” Miss Johnson’s smile widened slightly as she clasped her hands in front of her. “Miss Rossi, you’re really too serious about everything. Perhaps you should loosen up a bit. Life isn’t always about rules and proving yourself, you
Izzy remained silent, her expression neutral.
Miss Johnson tilted her head, studying her. “If I may, let me offer you some advice. Men are simple, Miss Rossi. They like things straightforward,” she dragged her eyes towards Izzy’s Izzy’s body. Then she smiled and met Izzy’s eyes once again. “Maybe if you gave them what they wanted from time to time instead of acting like you’re smarter than them, you’d have better luck keeping one.”
Izzy smiled faintly and inclined her head. “Thank you, Miss Johnson, for the expert advice.”
Miss Johnson’s smug expression faltered for a moment before she recovered. “I’ve had plenty of experience in that area, so trust me, I know what I’m talking about.”
Izzy nodded politely, though inwardly she thought about the irony of the situation. Miss Johnson was single, a fact that wasn’t lost on anyone in their circle. She was also known for her frequent associations with male models, something she didn’t go out of her way to hide.
“I would definitely take your advice, Miss Johnson.“Izzy smiled. After all, who wouldn’t want to be you?”
Miss Johnson opened her mouth as her face reddened slightly, but no words came out. She knew there was something wrong with Izzy’s words, but she couldn’t rebut the, not in front of everyone watching them.
Izzy waited for a moment, her calm demeanor unchanged, before finally saying, “If you’ll excuse me, I should get back to mingling. It was a pleasure speaking with you, Miss Johnson. I’ll see you around.”
