After finishing the golf game, Veronica and the others still had more activities planned for the day.

Cullen and Niall had joined them partway through the golf outing. Sensing that Veronica's group likely had private arrangements where their presence might be intrusive, Cullen tactfully said, "We have some other commitments later, so we'll leave you all to enjoy yourselves."

Chandler and Doran accepted this graciously, not insisting they stay. "Is that so? That's perfectly fine. Let's arrange another get-together when everyone's schedules align."

Cullen acknowledged with a pleasant smile before departing with Niall.

Dario had been quietly concerned that Cullen and Niall might extend their company to the post-golf meal. Seeing Cullen withdraw unprompted gave him a sense of relief, and he leaned close to Veronica, murmuring, "At least he knows when to make an exit."

Veronica responded with a soft smile and a gentle hum of agreement.

After walking some distance away, Cullen finally addressed what had been unspoken. "Feeling upset?"

Having suffered two embarrassing moments that day, Niall was indeed feeling deflated. Watching how effortlessly Chandler and the others had warmed to Veronica stung particularly deep. Despite recognizing they were merely captivated by Veronica's superficial charm, the experience left her with a bitter feeling.

Rather than voicing these thoughts directly, she manufactured a smile and replied, "I certainly made quite a spectacle of myself today. I am feeling somewhat discouraged. Clearly, I still have considerable room for improvement."

Cullen offered reassurance, "You possess your own unique strengths and qualities. Don't allow these minor incidents to diminish your confidence."

His words provided Niall with some comfort.

Today had revealed Veronica's quick thinking and thorough strategic approach, which had genuinely surprised Niall. She hadn't anticipated such capabilities from her rival.

She'd also noticed that Cullen seemed somewhat impressed by Veronica's performance, perhaps elevating his opinion of her slightly.

But that appeared to be the extent of it.

Niall had observed that while Cullen acknowledged Veronica's competence, he didn't show any deeper interest in her. More importantly, despite her own poor showing today, Cullen clearly wasn't bothered by it. In his eyes, she remained just as appealing as ever.

The truth was, they had no actual plans following the golf outing.

Cullen had evidently suggested their departure because he'd perceived her discomfort and wanted to spare her further distress.

This realization completely lifted the cloud of gloom hanging over her.

Around three o'clock that afternoon, after enjoying tea with Chandler and the others, Veronica returned to the Murray residence.

The moment Sabrina spotted her, she rushed over and embraced her tightly. "Mom, you're back!"

"Yes, sweetheart."

That morning, upon discovering Veronica was going out without her, Sabrina had initially felt disappointed. However, now she appeared in good spirits.

Evidently, even without Veronica's company, she had managed to enjoy herself at home.

Sabrina was about to speak when her phone suddenly rang.

The caller was Cullen.

She quickly answered, "Dad?"

Veronica couldn't hear Cullen's words, but Sabrina responded with enthusiasm, "Okay, got it!"

After ending the call, she turned to Veronica and announced, "Mom, Dad's taking me out for some fun. He's sending someone to pick me up soon."

Veronica maintained a composed expression. She made no attempt to prevent the outing and simply replied, "Alright, I understand."

Sabrina felt a twinge of reluctance to leave Veronica, but Cullen was taking her to a place she had long wanted to visit.

So when the driver Cullen dispatched arrived, she still climbed into the car and departed.

After Sabrina left, Veronica went upstairs to focus on her work responsibilities.

On Tuesday, Veronica visited Dennis Tech representing Dario.

Upon being informed of her arrival, Bradley personally came downstairs to greet her and Ramona.

"Ms. Murray, please follow me," Bradley said with professional courtesy.

Veronica acknowledged with a nod.

She had anticipated the meeting would take place in one of Dennis Tech's conference rooms. Instead, Bradley led her directly to Cullen's office.

During her time as a secretary here, she had occasionally had the "privilege" of entering Cullen's office.

The space was quite familiar to her.

Though less than a year had passed since she last stepped foot here, it felt like an entirely different lifetime.

Cullen was already inside when they arrived.

When he saw her enter, he looked up from the documents before him, rose to his feet, and said with professional politeness, "You've arrived. Please, have a seat."