Chapter 4: 0825

In the investment banking firm, the role of public relations may sound respectable, but it is widely known that it primarily entails being a drinking companion.

To her surprise, Ulric seemed to categorize her as part of the PR staff. Could he be under the impression that last night's encounter was also arranged by Mr. Chan?

Ulric's words caused a rush of heat to Rosalind's cheeks. However, with others present, she had to momentarily set aside her pride and remain composed.

She desperately needed this job to cover her mother's medical expenses.

Sensing the tension in the room, Mr. Chan swiftly put on a smile. "Rosalind has always been an assistant. Mr. Walters, you're overthinking. I simply thought that since both of you are from Jingtown, you might have some common topics to discuss. That's why I invited her! If you're unhappy about it, I can ask her to leave right away!"

He shot a glance at Rosalind. She was about to rise and depart but Ulric finally spoke, "Stay."

"......"

"Rosalind, didn't you hear? Mr. Walters asked you to sit."

Rosalind straightened her back and took a seat, but not without receiving a stern glare from Mr. Chan, urging her to pour wine for Ulric.

She lowered her eyelashes and reached for the bottle of red wine, but his large hand intercepted the wine glass.

"Mr. Chan, if you want to thrive at Prosperity Holdings, underhanded tactics won't get you far. I've been following the Hanyang project closely. Prosperity Holdings is in a vulnerable position, submit the replenishment application promptly and attempt to recover the losses."

Ulric's furrowed brows clearly showed his displeasure. It was an unequivocal ultimatum to Mr. Chan.

"Yes, yes, Mr. Walters, I acknowledge my mistake. There won't be a next time, I assure you."

Withdrawing his hand from blocking the wine glass, Ulric grabbed his coat and left the private room with his secretary, paying no heed to anyone and completely ignoring her.

After they departed, Mr. Chan finally unleashed his anger on Rosalind.

"Why did I bring you here? Can't you even smile? Did Mr. Walters come to witness your gloomy face?"

"Mr. Chan, being a drinking companion is not part of an assistant's job description, and I haven't received training for that."

"How dare you talk back? Do you realize how much effort I put into arranging this dinner? I used to think you were competent and intelligent in your work, but it turns out you're useless! Maybe I should just fire you!"

After venting his frustration, Mr. Chan shot her a venomous look and stormed out, slamming the door behind him.

This was the most humiliating experience Rosalind had encountered since starting her career.

She thought tears would well up, but aside from a slight soreness in her eyes, no tears escaped. She had known from the moment she entered this industry that the lower her position, the more she had to lower her head.

However, she hadn't anticipated Ulric's callousness. She had hoped... she had hoped that given their connection and what had transpired last night, he would at least show her some consideration.

It seemed the rumors about him being difficult to work with were indeed true.

As she walked toward her hotel room in her high heels, her phone rang inside her bag. It was Tilda.

"Why did Mr. Chan kick you out of the third group's work chat? What happened between you two?"

"Nothing."

"Did your beauty trap fail?" Tilda could be quite perceptive at times. "I always thought that such tactics wouldn't work on someone as reserved as Mr. Walters!"

Rosalind curled her lips and felt an urge to laugh. "Reserved?"

The person who had pushed her to the brink of breaking last night—who could that have been?

"I was merely referring to the impression he gives! Mr. Walters supposedly has someone he's been in love with for many years."

Tilda's casual remark triggered a recollection in Rosalind's mind—the number tattooed on Ulric's collarbone.

0825

Clearly, it was a significant date.