**Chapter 91** As if a roaring fire had just been extinguished, the warmth in the room dissipated the moment Avery walked out. Elliot, left in the sudden chill, felt a sense of emptiness seep into his bones. Moments later, Avery made her way to the bathroom to wash her face, splashing cool water on her skin in a futile attempt to shake off the heaviness that enveloped her. When she reentered the exhibition hall, the buzz of conversation and the hum of activity surrounded her, yet it all felt like a distant murmur. The exhibition dragged on for what felt like hours, but to Avery, it passed in a blinding flash. She glanced around, taking in countless exhibits, yet none of the details managed to stick in her mind. The vibrant colors, the clever designs – they all melded into an indistinct blur. Finally, as the event came to a close, she rose from her seat, feeling mentally drained. “Would you like to go for afternoon tea?” Charlie suggested with a bright smile. “I know a fantastic new place nearby.” Avery’s heart wasn’t in it. “I’m a little sleepy... I just want to go home and rest,” she replied, her voice lacking enthusiasm. Noticing the shadows under her eyes, Charlie nodded understandingly. “Let me take you back.” “Thank you,” Avery said, grateful for his kindness as they stepped from the first row into the thrumming crowd. As they reached the exit, Avery’s eyes landed on a familiar figure loitering near the door. Recognizing Shaun, former second-in-command of Tate Industries, she felt a surge of apprehension. Turning to Charlie, she said, “Mr. Tierney, you can go ahead. I have something to discuss.” Charlie’s gaze flicked to Shaun before responding, “Sure. Just call me if you need anything. I’ll wait for you outside.” With that, he strode away, leaving Avery alone with Shaun. “Are you really considering Trust Capital’s offer?” Shaun inquired, his polite smile barely masking a predatory glint in his eyes. Avery feigned interest. “I’ve heard you’re now at Golden Technologies. That’s quite an accomplishment.” “Nothing too grand,” Shaun replied modestly. “Still stuck with the title of ‘vice president,’ you know? It’s like being chained to the word ‘vice’ itself… a bit limiting.” Avery countered, “But couldn’t you take the leap and start your own venture? Be your own boss?” Shaun shook his head dismissively. “I prefer the safety that comes with being vice president. Much less risk involved.” Avery couldn’t help but mock, “Oh, so it’s incompetence you’re afraid of?” In the blink of an eye, the pleasant facade cracked, hostility rising like bile between them. Avery’s heart raced; she had reason to be wary. After all, it was Shaun who had plotted the trap that ensnared Cole, and the threat he presented was all too real. “Avery, why so harsh? Is that nervousness I detect?” Shaun’s tone dripped with sarcasm. “Let me make this clear — I’m no longer interested in your Super Brain System. I’m collaborating with my R&D team to create something infinitely better. Your system will soon be a mere relic of artificial stupidity,” he taunted. Avery shot back with an indifferent smile. “Oh, best of luck with that!” “Shouldn’t you be trembling in fear?” Shaun’s irritation seeped through the cracks of his composure at her nonchalance. With a glimmer of amusement, Avery replied, “Isn’t it you who should feel anxious? Cole may be underwhelming, but don’t underestimate him. He’s still the young master of the Foster family. Who knows—revenge may be lurking just around the corner.” Shaun’s face transformed, flushing an angry crimson. Stepping out of the exhibition hall, Avery turned her attention back to Charlie waiting outside. “Mr. Tierney, you can head off first! I just spotted a flower market nearby and I’d love to take a look.” Charlie’s expression softened. “Avery, my father’s birthday is next weekend. I’d like to invite you to his party.” Delight sparked in her eyes. “That would be nice!” “You’re welcome to bring your mother. It’ll be a small gathering at my place, nothing too extravagant,” he added, his tone sincere. “I’ll discuss it with her. Thank you for the invitation!” “It’s no problem. I’ll come by to pick you up,” Charlie assured her. Avery hesitated for a moment. “You’ll likely be busy, so let’s talk more about it at the party!” As she watched Charlie get into his car and drive off, a wave of relief washed over her. Outside, the wind whipped through the air, carrying with it the chill of uncertainty. Meanwhile, Elliot sat slumped in his mansion, feverish and restless, while the doctor sighed discreetly, concern etched onto his features. Mrs. Cooper, worried and frowning, summoned a bodyguard closer. “Did Master Elliot see Madam?” she asked in a hushed tone. “Yes, they met, and it didn’t end well,” the bodyguard confirmed quietly. “It was bound to affect him. Why else would Mr. Foster be in this state?” And in that moment, the air was thick with unspoken tensions, each character intertwined in a web of conflict and desire, the stakes ever escalating...