Chapter 8

Fiona was instantly delighted and didn't hesitate. "Okay, I'll go right away."

"Mr. Newton? Who is Mr. Newton?" Harold was quite cautious.

"He's the person I'm looking for," Fiona whispered, "Harold, thank you so much for today. I have to go now, but I'll treat you to a meal sometime."

After saying that, she followed the bodyguard.

A moment later, inside the luxury suite on the cruise ship, William glanced back at Fiona and asked directly, "Which company are you from?"

"Mr. Newton, I'm from the Atlas Group," Fiona replied.

William was taken aback, then frowned. "You play the piano beautifully, and I appreciate that. But I don't work with unprofessional teams, so..."

"Mr. Newton, you've probably seen a lot of proposals from top companies in the industry recently, haven't you?" Fiona spoke softly, without any aggression, making it easy for people to let their guard down.

William nodded. "Including your company, but the Atlas Group has really disappointed me."

"I'm sorry for the incorrect data in the proposal," Fiona said sincerely, "But Mr. Newton, I'm sure you haven't seen our company's complete proposal."

"Complete proposal?" William became interested.

"Yes, if you had seen the complete proposal, even with concerns about the data errors, I believe you would still choose it."

William had been running his company for many years and rarely encountered someone so confident.

"I can give you another chance, but if your proposal doesn't impress me, my company will never consider working with the Atlas Group again," he said slowly, "Do you still want me to look at your proposal again?"

Fiona was silent.

She was only responsible for securing this contract; everything else was none of her business.

"Alright!" Fiona agreed without hesitation.

Then, a familiar voice came from outside the door. "Please convey that Darwin Solomon is here to visit Mr. Newton."

Fiona immediately turned around.

"Let him in," William called out, then looked at Fiona again.

Fiona remained silent.

The bodyguard opened the door, and Darwin walked in.

"Mr. Newton," he greeted.

Fiona didn't turn around but could feel a gaze burning into her back.

"Mr. Solomon," William smirked, "Ms. Woods said I should look at your proposal again..."

He carefully explained the agreement and emphasized that Fiona had already agreed.

"As my secretary, she has always been able to make decisions on my behalf," Darwin said after listening, walking up behind Fiona.

"So, is Ms. Woods your secretary?" William was a bit surprised.

"Yes, she's been with me for many years," Darwin replied, his hand pressing firmly on Fiona's shoulder as if to make a point.

William added, "Mr. Solomon, since you've agreed, let's see what's so special about your proposal!"

After a brief preparation, Fiona took out her phone and projected the PPT onto the suite's high-definition projection screen.

She began explaining the proposal, knowing exactly what William's real needs were, and focused on detailing those needs.

At first, William listened with a casual attitude. But as Fiona continued, his expression grew more serious, and he frequently interrupted her with questions. Fiona was able to answer all his inquiries in detail.

Darwin sat on the sofa, his cold gaze fixed on Fiona the entire time.

Fiona's professionalism in explaining the proposal was on par with the director of the sales department.

He had always thought she was just a fragile vine clinging to him for survival, needing his protection to thrive.

However, it seemed she wasn't. He didn't know her at all.

The proposal reached its conclusion.

"I've finished explaining the proposal. If we do end up working together, both teams will need to collaborate on further technical optimizations," Fiona said with a faint smile, looking at William. "Mr. Newton, the decision is now in your hands."

William looked at Fiona and shook his head. "Honestly, I really didn't want you to win. But I have to admit, this proposal is exactly what I've been looking for."

He then smiled kindly. "Ms. Woods, congratulations on winning. Have someone come to the office tomorrow to discuss the contract details."

"Thank you." Fiona beamed with joy.

William patted Darwin on the shoulder. "Mr. Solomon, where did you find such a bold and meticulous secretary? She's a real talent!"

"Mr. Newton, you're too kind." Darwin stood up. "It's getting late so that we won't keep you any longer."

"Alright." William nodded slightly, showing no intention of keeping them.

Fiona and Darwin walked out together.

Outside, Harold was leaning against the wall, his cashmere shawl draped over his arm, seemingly waiting for them.

"Mr. Solomon," Fiona said with a professional smile, "I've resolved the contract issue. The person who tampered with the data will be handed over to you by tomorrow, barring any surprises."

Darwin looked at her indifferently.

"Mr. Solomon, good night." Fiona then walked towards Harold.

"Let's go. You haven't eaten, right? I've had a lot of food prepared for you!" Harold immediately stood up straight with a smile.

He didn't notice the subtle tension between Fiona and Darwin at all.

"Oh, and this! Put it on!" Harold draped the cashmere shawl over Fiona's shoulders.

"Thank you," Fiona said, surprised.

Darwin stood there, watching them walk away together, feeling as if Fiona had abandoned him to be affectionate with another man.

He suppressed the urge to go after her.

His eyes were icy cold as he left in the opposite direction.

The cruise party usually docked the next morning.

Tonight, there would be an all-night celebration, with luxurious rooms available for rest.

As the party host, Harold needed to entertain the guests. After chatting with Fiona for a while, he arranged a guest room for her and left.

Fiona felt a bit tired and returned to her room.

The first thing she did was call Thalassa to report on her work.

Thalassa, who was having a great time, hung up after a few words.

Fiona collapsed on the bed, gently placing her hand on her lower abdomen." Baby, be good. Once I finish my work, I'll take good care of you."

She hadn't been lying down for long when Darwin's exclusive ringtone sounded on her phone.

She instinctively sat up and immediately answered the call.

"Come to 1899." Darwin's voice was cold and emotionless, chilling even through the phone.