Niall's gaze fell on Veronica across the exhibition hall. Her expression remained perfectly controlled as she turned to Dario beside her. "We have business matters to handle. We should head out now. Perhaps we can continue our conversation at another time."
Dario extended his hand in farewell. "Of course. Let's plan to meet up soon."
Niall didn't spare Veronica so much as a backward glance as she departed with Isaac and the rest of their group.
Given Dario's prominent standing in the industry, it was inevitable that several key players would approach him before noon arrived. Each carried invitations for an exclusive lunch gathering.
The subtle hints they dropped made it clear that Cullen would be in attendance.
Cullen's table promised to bring together the most influential minds in the field, creating the perfect environment to explore the emerging landscape of artificial intelligence. The reality was simple: the market's future hinged entirely on the strategic decisions these power players would make.
This represented far more than just an opportunity to gather intelligence. It was a chance to forge crucial relationships. If the conversations flowed in the right direction, major partnerships could be sealed before dessert was served.
The prospect genuinely intrigued Dario.
He shifted his attention to Veronica, his eyes silently requesting her thoughts on the matter.
Knowing Cullen would be there, would she choose to... Veronica's response came without hesitation. "I'm going."
She and Cullen might maintain the facade of being complete strangers in public settings. But that certainly didn't mean she intended to run from his presence.
The group of industry titans guided both Veronica and Dario in Cullen's direction.
Cullen observed their steady approach with an expression that revealed nothing.
Niall's brow creased momentarily. Yet she recovered quickly, her features settling into a mask of cool detachment as she looked away.
Isaac and Huxley appeared shortly after. Their faces grew noticeably tense the moment they spotted Veronica among the approaching group.
Several individuals hadn't yet had the chance to properly greet Dario, so they seized the moment as he drew near.
When Cullen's turn arrived, he offered his hand to Dario. "Good to meet you."
"Likewise," Dario responded, his smile warm and professional. "Mr. Dennis, your reputation precedes you."
"You're far too generous, Mr. Reid."
Following a brief but cordial exchange, Cullen and Niall began leading the assembled group toward the parking area. Veronica and Dario fell into step behind them.
Isaac and Huxley attempted subtle gestures, desperately hoping to communicate that Veronica should reconsider joining this particular gathering. She behaved as though their signals were completely invisible to her.
Cullen and Niall settled into the same vehicle, while Veronica climbed into Dario's car.
Powerless to prevent her decision, Huxley's frown deepened. "That woman, I swear..."
The gathering had swelled to include more than twenty individuals.
The private dining room was impressively spacious, featuring a massive round table that could comfortably accommodate everyone.
Cullen and Niall naturally claimed seats beside each other.
Huxley had every intention of positioning herself next to Veronica. Her concern was that Veronica might make some inappropriate comment during the meal. She wanted to maintain close supervision, but Dario had already claimed the remaining chair beside Veronica before she could move.
With everyone finally seated, animated conversation began flowing as they perused the menu options.
Cullen slid the leather-bound menu toward Niall. "Why don't you make the selections."
Niall accepted it gracefully and inquired, "Do you have any particular preferences today?"
"I trust your judgment completely," Cullen answered.
Several nearby guests chuckled appreciatively. "Mr. Dennis and Ms. Crystal certainly make an impressive partnership."
Niall's smile was radiant as she carefully selected several dishes that aligned perfectly with Cullen's tastes.
Isaac and Huxley exchanged satisfied looks at this display.
At the same time, Dario held his own menu and inquired about Veronica's dining preferences.
He caught sight of the interaction unfolding between Cullen and Niall, glancing briefly in their direction before returning his full attention to Veronica. Her expression remained completely unreadable. As Dario sought her opinion, the two engaged in quiet discussion and settled on several dishes together.
Isaac and Huxley noted with relief that Veronica wasn't creating any disruption, and their anxiety began to ease somewhat.
Niall, who was fully aware of their underlying concerns, leaned closer and spoke in hushed tones. "There's no need to worry yourselves. With Cullen present, she wouldn't dare create a scene."
The conversation around the table began to flow more freely as appetizers arrived. Industry veterans shared insights about market trends while younger entrepreneurs listened intently, hoping to glean wisdom from their experience.
Dario found himself naturally drawn into discussions about emerging technologies, his expertise adding valuable perspective to the conversation. Veronica participated when directly addressed, her responses measured and professional.
Cullen commanded attention effortlessly, his deep voice carrying authority as he outlined his vision for the industry's evolution. Niall occasionally added thoughtful commentary, demonstrating her own keen understanding of market dynamics.
The atmosphere grew increasingly relaxed as wine was poured and business cards were exchanged. Yet beneath the surface civility, undercurrents of tension remained. Isaac's eyes occasionally darted toward Veronica, while Huxley maintained her vigilant watch.
Despite the complex web of relationships at the table, the lunch proceeded smoothly. Professional courtesy prevailed, even as personal histories threatened to complicate the proceedings.