Ch. 66
The secretary immediately handed one to her, and Selene slipped it on, tucking a few loose strands of hair behind her ears.
"Come," her father said. "I'll explain inside."
They walked deeper into the construction site, the noise growing louder metal clanging, machines humming, workers calling instructions to one another. The air smelled of dust and concrete, and the ground was uneven beneath their feet.
"This project," her father began, gesturing around them, "is planned as a mixed-use compound. Residential buildings on one side, commercial spaces on the other. Think long-term self-sustaining, efficient, scalable."
Selene slowly scanned the area, taking in the skeletal frames of the structures, the layout, the spacing between buildings.
"The materials we're using," her father continued, "are being sourced from Montclair Merchandising. They're offering us a bulk deal on concrete and steel reinforcements."
He paused and looked at her.
"I want your opinion. Will we actually save money using their concrete in the long run?"
Selene blinked.
She crouched slightly to examine a nearby slab of concrete, then straightened.
"If the concrete mix has higher compressive strength," she said carefully, choosing her words, "it may cost more upfront, but maintenance expenses will be lower. Less cracking. Fewer structural reinforcements later."
Her father raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"But if Montclair's mix prioritizes affordability over durability," she continued, "you'll end up spending more on repairs within five to ten years especially for a compound of this scale."
Jaxen, who had been walking beside them, glanced at her. This time, there was no teasing in his expression.
Only interest.
"That's accurate," he said professionally. "Montclair's standard-grade concrete is affordable, but their premium mix performs better under heavy load. For long-term investment, the premium option makes more sense."
Selene turned to him, briefly surprised—then nodded.
"Especially if vertical expansion is part of the future plan."
Her father stopped walking.
For a moment, he simply looked at the two of them— then at Selene.
A faint smile formed on his face.
"I wasn't wrong to bring you here," he said, calm but certain.
Selene blinked, slightly flustered.
"I'm happy to help."
Her father chuckled softly, clearly pleased.
"Good. Then we'll request Montclair's full material report before finalizing the order."
Jaxen glanced at Selene again.
This time, there was something new in his eyes.
Respect.
They continued reviewing the remaining details until the site gradually settled into its end-of-day rhythm. Workers wrapped up. Machinery quieted. The once-busy space grew calmer.
When everything that needed discussion had been covered, Selene and her father prepared to leave.
Jaxen walked them partway out. There was no teasing this time only a professional nod and brief farewell. Selene returned it with equal courtesy before turning away.
Work stayed as work.
As soon as they entered the car, the driver started the engine and smoothly pulled away. The secretary sat quietly in the front passenger seat, tablet in hand, while Selene and her father occupied the back.
The atmosphere inside was calm. After a few minutes, her father finally spoke.
"So, what happened today?"
Selene was slightly startled but quickly managed a small smile.
"I just got hit by a soccer ball. It didn't really hurt, but I fainted," she replied softly.
In truth, she hadn't felt any pain when the ball struck her.
She glanced sideways at him, trying to read his reaction. His expression remained composed, but she noticed the subtle tightening of his jaw.
"By the way," he continued evenly, mindful of the people in front, "your grandfather said he can help you visit your friend at the hospital."
Selene immediately turned to him, interest flashing across her face at the mention of Liana.
"What did he say?"
"He can arrange it," her father said. "Under one condition."
She waited.
"You'll accompany him to a party later this week."
Her brows drew together faintly.
"A party?"
"Do you think invitations are ever just invitations?" He adjusted his cufflinks, unhurried.
Selene fell silent.
"We've been abroad for nearly eight years," he continued. "People remember our name, but they don't know you."
"That's why we always include you in the gatherings we're invited to," he went on. "Your mother doesn't want to publicize you yet, because she knows you're not fond of loud crowds. And I'm glad your first formal appearance in society here... you handled it very well."
Selene blinked.
Ah... right.
The original Selene had been an introvert. The realization surprised her—especially since the author had portrayed Selene so differently in the novel.
"Since you mentioned that you've become acquainted with the Cerez girl," he continued calmly, "you might as well use this opportunity to understand Ms. Cerez's background properly."
His gaze sharpened slightly.
"Her family holds considerable influence. Especially in this country."
Selene nodded slowly.
"Yeah," she said. "I remember."
"In circles like theirs, unfamiliar faces are noted," he added. "Especially when they move toward sensitive matters."
"Right, Liana's condition isn't public." Selene lowered her voice.
"Hm." he replied evenly. "It isn't."
The city lights flickered past the tinted windows.
"Her family maintains discretion," he went on. "Military bloodlines do not entertain speculation. Internally, they are handling what they believe to be attempted foul play."
Selene's fingers tightened almost imperceptibly.
"If you appear at the hospital without introduction," he said, "you won't be seen as a concerned friend."
Selene lowered her gaze.
In this novel's world, connections and social status were everything. Of course they were. The author must have designed it this way—making power and influence nearly unreachable for ordinary people.
Still... it made sense.
She didn't even have Liana's phone number. She didn't know where she lived. No visible proof of friendship. Only Ethan and Adrian knew they were friends.
If she walked into that hospital unannounced, claiming closeness to a girl whose coma wasn't even publicly disclosed
Would they believe her?
Since, she only knew about the accident because of her father. They might genuinely see her as suspicious.
And in this world, she wasn't just anyone.
She was the novel's villainess.
Her presence alone could already be perceived as a threat. She lifted her head and looked at her father.
"When is the party?" she asked calmly.
"In three days," he replied. "It will be held at 888 hotel. Private guest list."
"Will Liana's parents be there?"
"Of course, even though her father rarely attends public events, but this one is significant. I'm sure of that."
"Tell grandpa...I'll attend," Selene said firmly.
Her father studied her for a moment, as if measuring her resolve. Then he gave a slight nod.