Chapter 89
Silvercrest Mall was positioned just a short walk from the Nova Tech headquarters.
Felix took Hannah out there for lunch first, having reserved an upscale dining spot with a calm, elegant atmosphere-ideal for a quiet break together.
Though the setting invited ease, Hannah's mind stayed locked on the hormone-monitoring wristband.Their conversation hovered around the project.
After slicing his steak, Felix slid his plate across the table.
Hannah gently nudged it back. "I've got it. Thanks,though."
But he insisted, sliding it toward her once more."Come on. You're the brain behind this whole thing."
She gave a light smile. "You're overstating it just a little, don't you think?"
His tone shifted, serious now. "Not really. That wristband-it's genius. The product reminded me of the early days of Nova Tech-full of energy and life."
Back when the company was at its lowest-on the brink of bankruptcy-they'd pivoted toward male-centric products out of necessity, a strategy that led to repeated setbacks and lackluster outcomes.Thankfully, the tides had shifted. Nova Tech was once more headed in a favorable direction. Felix felt a flush of satisfaction.
Felix spoke. "Stop refusing the plate of steak, or l might start feeling hurt."
He winked playfully at her, making Hannah chuckle.
"Well,thank you then."
"Don't mention it."
The lightheartedness faded as Hannah steered the conversation back to work.
Felix quipped with a lopsided smile, "Don't tell me you're dreaming about the wristband project at night."
She tilted her head. "Nope. When I go to bed, I don't dream at all-I sleep straight through till morning."
Her daily schedule drained her completely-research by day, planning the birthday festivities by evening-leaving no space for restless thoughts.
No pointless worries. No constant tension. Just focus, direction, and a sense of control. That was Hannah's version of contentment.
Felix looked genuinely relieved for her, but after a moment, his brow furrowed with concern. He paused, voice low. "Last time, with Vincent...Everything okay?"
"Nothing worthy to fret over," she replied, a faint smile flickering, though not quite holding. "We're getting divorced. What's there to stress about?"
Their recent conflict had been explosive, and now they were in the middle of a sient war. Neither made a move to bridge the gap.
And for Hannah, that silence was bliss. No passive-aggressive stares. No pointless arguments. Just peace. That was all she needed.
"I'm really glad to hear that," Felix said softly. His eyes lowered. "So, when are you finalizing it?"
"Not long now. Just a few more days." Time kept pushing forward. Only five more remained until Vincent's grandmother's birthday.
At her answer, a subtle delight flickered in Felix's eyes.
The lunch ended on an easy note, and Hannah expressed her thanks more than once before they left the restaurant.
Afterward, Felix guided her toward a jewelry boutique.
Hannah glanced around, intrigued. "Picking something for someone? Your mom or your girlfriend?"
He didn't answer. Instead, he exchanged a brief look with the store clerk.
"Sir, this piece might interest you," the clerk offered.
Felix lifted a slender bracelet, holding it up for Hannah to see. "What do you think of this one?"
She studied it carefully. "The floral detail is really intricate. It's beautiful."
Felix's lips curved slightly. He shot a glance at the clerk, who caught on right away. "I'll help you try it on," the clerk offered, stepping in.
"Wait-I'm not-" Hannah instinctively pulled back,her eyes darting to Felix for help.
"Perfect," he said with a grin. "Try it on for me."
The clerk moved quickly. Before Hannah could protest again, bracelet was already clasped around her wrist.
Felix's eyes gleamed. "See? Fits you like it was made for you."
Hannah reached to undo the clasp, eager to return it -but just then, a scornful voice rang out across the room. "Look who it is. Mr. Jones's kept woman.What happened-did he throw you out already?"