This way, Jayson could also get involved with Faye Technologies‘ new products.

In the end, he was still fighting for Nancy to get a chance.

Chad, of course, was aware of that. Faye Technologies was working closely with the government this time, and since the government had a say in the matter, they had to proceed cautiously.

What surprised him was how fast Jayson acted. He even got Jonathan to step in personally.

“Of course, this new project is quite complex. A good manufacturer is essential, but…” Chad sighed. “On my way here, I got a call from Mr. Sanderson at Jadeon Tech. He’s also interested in partnering with us. That makes things complicated.”

Ariel was surprised and pondered quietly.

Lucas? He was extending an offer too?

Besides Nexura Solutions under Bluum Corp, Jadeon Technologies was one of Eldoria’s best when it came to product quality control.

Jayson was now directly competing with Lucas.

Jonathan glanced at Jayson. “Jadeon Tech isn’t bad either.”

Jayson raised his eyes slowly and said calmly, “That’s alright. Faye Tech should have the freedom to choose. Partnership depends on strength and fate. Mr. Hockney, you don’t need to feel pressured.”

He had no intention to compete with Lucas.

Chad was somewhat worried about Ariel.

Jonathan recommended Jayson as their manufacturer, and Lucas showed interest too. With one being Ariel’s ex- husband and the other her adopted brother, she might not be thrilled about the situation.

Ariel looked at Chad calmly and spoke matter–of–factly. “Let’s not rush. Once the funds are in place, we can carefully evaluate and choose the manufacturer.”

Chad nodded.

Matt observed Ariel’s and Chad’s composure and was puzzled. He leaned to Nancy and Perry, whispering, “They haven’t said a word about investment. Could they have other funding channels?”

Nancy sipped her tea. “I don’t know, but I think that’s unlikely.”

“Right.” Matt shook his head with a smile. “If the money’s not secured, everything else is just talk. They’ll have to address the funding sooner or later.”

Nancy silently agreed. She figured that if she hadn’t come today, Ariel might have swallowed her pride and begged Jayson for the investment.

Perry, however, looked at Ariel thoughtfully. He felt that Ariel’s and Chad’s calmness wasn’t just putting on a brave face.

The business talk was over for now. No one pursued it further.

24

Ariel sat quietly to rest.

Soon, her phone buzzed. She checked it, and her expression immediately relaxed.

The real estate agent had replied. There was a buyer interested in her marital home. They didn’t haggle, said the price was fair, and were ready to pay in full. If everything checked out, they could sign the contract immediately.

Ariel hadn’t expected it to go so smoothly.

She quickly replied, “Okay, please proceed with it.”

She had already notarized the listing and authorized the agent to handle the sale directly. This saved her from having to deal with it herself while she was busy at work.

The agent soon replied, “Understood, Ms. Walker. You should receive the full payment in about three business days.”

A big weight was lifted from Ariel’s chest.

Her normally even–tempered mood brightened considerably. A faint smile appeared on her usually reserved, cool face.

Faye Technologies‘ funding was confirmed to be in place.

Just then, Jayson came over to grab his coat and happened to catch sight of Ariel’s smile. Though she looked gentle, her personality was cool and distant, as if she didn’t want anyone getting too close.

It was rare to see her this happy.

He paused slightly, squinting at her. “You seem to be in a good mood. Got some good news?”