Nancy’s concerns were reasonable.

Everyone here was a businessman, after all. The investment world’s evaluation of a project was complex and rigorous.

From her perspective, if Faye Technologies truly had Carlos‘ guidance, it would be best not to let some nobody jeopardize the project’s success.

Ariel glanced coldly at Nancy, then shifted her gaze away.

“This is an internal matter for Faye Tech to worry about.” Her tone was calm and emotionless, yet sharp and to the point.

Nancy paused, surprise flickering in her eyes.

Even Jayson watched Ariel’s impassive face with a curious look.

After a moment, he narrowed his eyes but said nothing.

Frederick and Zach were also taken aback. They hadn’t expected Ariel to so casually throw the question back.

Zach narrowed his eyes slightly. Was that really how Ariel talked to investors?

Frederick softened his tone. With a smile, he tested the waters. “Mr. Hockney, everyone knows the engineers and technical staff at Faye Tech are mostly graduate students from top universities, and their skills are unquestionable.

“As far as I know, Ms. Walker only has a bachelor’s degree. Didn’t anyone object to adding her to the project team just to ride on coattails?”

A successful project required tireless dedication, day and night. No one would want an unrelated person to benefit unfairly.

Zach thought for a moment, then said with a smile, “Mr. Hockney, you’re seeking investment now, and team composition is naturally part of the investors‘ assessment. It’s only normal that everyone is confused.”

Chad glanced at Ariel.

For the first time, he was frustrated. Ariel’s confidentiality agreement for the U.N2 reconnaissance and strike drone project had about six months left. Plus, Ariel was indeed just a bachelor’s degree holder.

No matter how much Chad claimed Ariel was carrying the project, people with a deep–rooted bias of seeing her as just a housewife wouldn’t believe it.

“I understand everyone’s concerns. Investing requires caution. But Ariel deserves to be on the list. If anyone has doubts and collaboration falls through, so be it. It just means we’re not meant to work together this time.”

Chad’s stance was clear. He could walk away from the deal, but he was standing firmly by Ariel.

Zach’s expression shifted to surprise.

Chad was actually willing to risk losing a major investment deal over Ariel?

In short, it wasn’t them backing out over doubts about Faye Technologies‘ decision. It was Chad who rejected

them.

That was way too rash.

Nancy studied Chad more carefully. She admired him a lot. He was the top talent of his generation and Carlos‘ only son, yet he was so nice to Ariel.

Jayson’s gaze lingered on Ariel for a few seconds too.

Clearly, the key was Ariel.

Chad waved his hand. “I’m busy with work. Let’s meet next time.”

Ariel nodded and turned to leave with Chad.

Frederick was dumbfounded. “I thought Mr. Hockney would at least discuss collaboration with Mr. Larkin. After all, Mr. Larkin has no issue with the investment amount. But they just left like that?”

He frowned. “That’s not very professional.”

Nancy had a lot on her mind. “Have Mr. Hockney and Ariel become that close?”

She was surprised that Chad actually gave up on investment talks for Ariel’s sake. She expected Chad to negotiate harder for the funding.

Zach glanced at her and nodded in agreement.

Who would’ve thought Chad was such a love–struck fool?

Nancy pressed her lips together. She hadn’t expected Ariel’s name to appear as a lead on such a major Faye Technologies project, let alone see her sharing that honor with Chad.

In the end, she smiled with a shrug. “It’s alright. Faye Tech’s financing isn’t something that can be solved overnight. Mr. Hockney will come to understand in time.”