bChapter 289 /b

The next morning, as soon as Noreen arrived at the office, her phone rang. It was Scott Quigley.

He wanted to know if she was free for lunch.

Noreen immediately understood what he was getting at and agreed to meet him.

She stopped by Sophia’s desk to let her know and asked her to push the afternoon appointments back.

Sophia leaned in, eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Is this a dinner with drinks? Because if it is, I’ming with you.”

“It’s just lunch,” Noreenughed. “Why would you tag along for that?”

“To shield you from drinks! From now on, I’ming with you to all those business dinners. I won’t leave your side–no more repeats ofst night!”

Noreen couldn’t help but chuckle. “Alright, you cane next time there’s alcohol involved. But today’s just lunch. No need to y bodyguard.”

When Noreen got down to the parking garage, she ran into the same middle–aged man she’d seen outside the government building the other day.

He looked like he was waiting for someone.

Forrest was clearly surprised to see her. He hesitated for a second, then started walking over.

Noreen didn’t linger or make eye contact. She simply turned away and headed straight for her car.

Forrest opened his mouth, about to call out.

Just then, on the other side of the garage, Ethan Laurent personally escorted Bianca downstairs.

As soon as Bianca spotted Forrest waiting for her, she called out, “Dad! How long have you been here–have you been waiting ages?”

Forrest stopped and turned to her, his face softening instantly. “I just got here. Are you finished for the day?” fn4f0d Updates are released by find?novel/fn4f0d

“Yeah.” Bianca introduced Ethan, who’de down with her.

Noreen was just about to start her car when she heard Bianca call out “Dad.” Her hand froze on the ignition for a moment, and then she frowned.

Some people just rub you the wrong way at first sight. Maybe it’s just gics making the choice for

you.

Guess her instincts hadn’t steered her wrong.

She pressed the gas and drove out of the parking lot without a backward nce.

It had been a while since Noreenst saw Scott, and when she arrived at the café, she barely recognized him.

Scott lookedpletely different–his skin was tanned, he’d lost weight, and his hair was a mess.

12:27)

But there was a brightness in his eyes now, a genuine smile that hadn’t been there before.

“Did I scare you?” Scott poured Noreen a cup of tea.

“Not scared, just surprised at how much you’ve changed,” Noreen replied honestly.

Scott started telling her about what he’d been up to. After leaving his job, he’d traveled to the Northwest, exploring historic sites and natural wonders.

He’d found a wealth of inspiration there and rushed back, eager to share his ideas with Noreen.

She noticed his eyes shining as he spoke. Only real passion could bring that kind of light.

He was so excited, he hadn’t even had time to put together a slide deck–just words tumbling out, painting the picture.

For most of the meal, Scott did all the talking while Noreen simply listened.

Eventually, he caught himself and scratched his head, embarrassed. “Am I rambling too much?”

“Not at all.” Noreen poured him another cup of tea. “I think your ideas are fascinating. Integrating thosendmarks and stories into our game would be a real cultural breakthrough.”

“That’s exactly what I’m aiming for!” Scott felt an instant sense of connection–like he’d finally found someone who really understood him.

He’d always struggled to get his ideas across, but Noreen just got him. Even Ethan, his old college roommate and longtime partner, never quite managed that.

“Go home and put all your thoughts together. Once you’ve got the full concept, we’ll talk next steps,” Noreen said.

Scott’s confidence soared, all the gloom from his resignation vanished. “Will do!”

Lunch ended early, and with time to spare, Noreen decided to reach out to Carman. She called ahead to let him know she wasing.