Winning Her Heart Back

 Her Smiling Face

Emelie said softly, "I believe that there are many similar situations across the country. I wanted to ask Mr. Middleton if he would be interested in spearheading a project to fund the rebuilding of this school as a starting point, with the aim of targeting aid toward impoverished and remote elementary and secondary schools across the country."

At last, Charles understood her intention. "Ms. Pierce, are you proposing a charity?"

Emelie smiled faintly. "The Filo Group needs the Cedonia market, Mr. Middleton needs his reputation restored, and the children need benefactors. Isn't this a win-win situation for all parties involved?"

The Filo Group's ambition to enter the Cedonia market would require a gesture of goodwill, and there was no better way to win favor than through charity.

After all the talk, Emelie's real aim was to secure a foothold that would later facilitate profitable ventures. It was often said, however, that noble deeds were judged by what they achieved, not by how they came about. Regardless of her intentions, this initiative would indeed benefit those in need.

Emelie went on to say, "Filo Group is a foreign enterprise. If we could partner with a company based in Cedonia, it would make things much easier."

Charles lowered his head and gave the idea some careful thought.

Investing in charity was almost a mandatory annual KPI for any business.Content protected by Nôv/el(D)rama.Org.

Not only was it a legal way of claiming tax deductions, but it was also good public relations. It could lead to accolades such as the Cedonia Charity Award or recognition as a philanthropic company.

The Davis Group already donated a substantial amount to such initiatives each year. So, why shouldn't they invest in this cause?

Given the current media spotlight on the Filo Group, any collaboration would only increase attention on them. This could lead to more positive influence and exposure.

Charles quickly made up his mind. He looked up at Emelie with a smile and said, "Ms. Pierce, it seems that you are holding on to old feelings. You're only proposing the involvement of your ex-boyfriend in such a noble endeavor. Could it be that you haven't quite gotten over Mr. Middleton?"

Emelie took no offense. She looked at him calmly and replied, "Mr. Davis, are you interested in joining this initiative?"

"How could I not be interested in something that could improve the company's image? Cloudex Corporation has been recognized several times as a responsible corporate citizen, but the Davis Group has yet to receive that distinction." Charles shrugged.

Emelie thought for a moment before nodding. She took a glass of wine from the tray of a passing waiter and raised it to Charles.

"Mr. Davis, are you suggesting that I have old ties with Mr. Middleton but none with you? I remember you sending me flowers several times in the past."

Charles looked at her attentively.

He wondered if she had really put the past behind her to be able to talk about it so easily now.

She seemed more relaxed and carefree than before. That calmness usually came from a sense of security.

Charles clinked his glass against hers and said, "I'm someone who values old ties. So, shall we discuss this further?"

Emelie replied, "Let's meet tomorrow at Westward Club."

They exchanged smiles and downed their drinks in one go.

As Emelie turned to put her glass down, a fleeting glint of icy sharpness passed through her eyes.

The following evening, Emelie and Charles arrived at the Westward Club at the same time. Their cars were parked next to each other.

It was a great coincidence, and they were happily chatting as they made their way inside.

Unexpectedly, a voice called out from behind them, "Ms. Pierce, Mr. Davis."

They both stopped in their tracks and turned around.

William got out of his car and walked toward them.

A flash of surprise crossed Emelie's eyes. She asked calmly, "Mr. Middleton, weren't you unwell? What brings you here? Drinking would only worsen your condition."

William's eyes were fixed on her. His dark eyes were like mirrors, reflecting her unspoken intentions.

"It's just a cold, but I'm feeling much better now. Ms. Pierce, I heard that you were discussing a charity with Mr. Davis. I thought I'd join in, as I'm interested. Am I not welcome?"

Emelie replied with amusement, "Of course, you are welcome to listen in, but you're not so welcome if you're here to reprimand Mr. Davis for cutting in. We believe in making money peacefully."

William replied indifferently, "Cloudex Corporation doesn't need this particular charity. If Mr. Davis is interested, we'll let him take the lead."

Charles, who was unaware of the subtle tension between the two of them, laughed and said, "Mr. Middleton, you're so generous."

And so the three of them entered the Westward Club together.

They opted for a private room.

Before the meal was served, they engaged in some light-hearted conversation. When the dishes were brought out, Emelie took a file from Jodie.

She handed it to Charles. "I've drawn up a proposal. Mr. Davis, please have a look."

Then, she handed another copy to William. "Mr. Middleton, if you're interested, you can have a look at it too. Your input would be much appreciated."

William took a look at her smiling face for three seconds before finally accepting the document.