Thawing the CEO's Heart

Chapter 27: Distrust and Deception

Aoom broke the silence in the conference room with a probing question, directed at the CEO sitting across from her. "She is your daughter?"

Responding with a warm smile, the CEO addressed Aoom respectfully. "Well, Ms. Chaiyawat, you see, Meena here is actually the best friend of my daughter, Charlotte. Meena's father was also my closest friend before he passed away. I would have formally adopted her when her mother left, but Meena insisted it wasn't necessary to have it in writing. So, to answer your question, yes, in my eyes, she's my daughter."

Meena interjected, trying to diffuse any awkwardness. "I might have been a bit distracted today, not noticing that it's your company, Ice mentioned, Dad." Mr. Austin raised an eyebrow in curiosity. "Why? Is there something bothering you? You practically grew up in AusTech's building to overlook the name."

Aoom then revealed the source of the tension. "I mistakenly hired her ex-boyfriend." Mr. Austin's expression turned concerned. "Wait, that arrogant Kit? Is he causing you trouble again, Meena?"

Meena shook her head, attempting to downplay the situation."I was simply taken aback, but I believe I can manage." Aoom swiftly interjected, reassuring Mr. Austin. "And don't worry, Mr. Austin. I will make sure he will not bother Meena."

Mr. Austin's smile returned as he expressed his confidence in Aoom. "Well, I watched what you said during your press conference, so I know she is in good hands." He then shifted the focus back to business. "Shall we begin our meeting?"

With a nod from Aoom, the discussion delved into the details of the presentation prepared for the upcoming partnership, setting aside personal connections for the time being.

After the meeting, when Ice spotted Meena and Aoom emerging from the conference room, she couldn't resist making a lunch suggestion. "It's lunchtime now. Please tell me we're eating outside and not having another takeout."

Aoom, noticing Kit lingering nearby, decided to play along and replied loud enough for him to hear, "Sure, Ice. Since I just came back, I want to treat my girlfriend to a nice lunch too." Ice, in on the game, chimed in, "Look at you, Aoom, being the best CEO and sweet girlfriend at the same time."

Meena, oblivious to the underlying dynamics, simply nodded and gathered her belongings, ready to head out.

Meanwhile, Kit stewed in his thoughts, confidence exuding from his demeanor, as he harbored the belief that Meena would inevitably come crawling back to him.

At the restaurant, Aoom brought up Mr. Austin, prompting a surprised reaction from Ice. "So, Charlotte also comes from a prominent family? Wow, she's very humble," Ice remarked.

Meena confirmed, "Well, Charlotte has no intention of taking over the family business. She wants to pursue a different path."

Aoom interjected, "Is she the only daughter?" Meena nodded, and Aoom continued thoughtfully, "Well, it will be hard for Charlotte to decline, considering she's the only heir. Eventually, she'll be compelled to take charge."

Ice joined the conversation, reflecting, "That's true. Even Aoom here knows that soon she'll be leading her family's business in addition to Aoom Corp. I have no idea how she'll manage it." She nudged Aoom playfully and added, "You'll be the CEO of the top two companies in Thailand. Tell me about being popular, huh?"

Aoom chuckled at Ice's antics and then signaled the waiter to take their order. Turning to Meena, she asked for her preferences. Meena deferred to Aoom, allowing her to decide. Aoom smiled as she relayed their order to the waiter, engaging in a brief conversation about the restaurant's specialties and recommendations.

As they waited for their food, Kit sauntered over to their table with an air of arrogance. "Well, well, well, if it isn't Meena and her entourage," he remarked, his tone dripping with sarcasm.