Chapter 1285
“What’s wrong? See your old flame and get all worked up?” Walden Wells suddenly murmured, his tone laced with displeasure.
Vanessa snapped back to reality. She realized her jealousy had caused her to unconsciously tighten her grip on his arm.
She immediately plastered on a bright, flirtatious smile and pressed closer to him. “Walden, you know who’s in my heart, don’t you p>
Walden Wells grunted. He was looking for an opportunity to confront lan anyway, so he led Vanessa in their direction.
Vanessa was startled that he was walking straight toward lan. She took a deep breath, determined not to show any weakness in front of them.
“Mr. Goodwin, Dr. Sutton, what a coincidence! Perfect time to discuss the establishment of the special fund,” Walden Wells said, his voice booming and drawing the attention of those nearby.
lan’s brow furrowed slightly, while Eleanor turned to face them with a calm expression.
Vanessa put on a show of dignified composure, greeting lan first. “Mr. Goodwin, it’s been a while.” Then, as if just noticing Eleanor, she feigned surprise. “Oh! Miss Sutton is here too. Sorry-Dr. Sutton now. You’ve certainly climbed a long way up p>
It sounded like a compliment, but the bite underneath was hard to miss.
lan completely ignored Vanessa, his cold gaze fixed on Walden Wells. “Are you also interested in the medical research fund, Mr. Wells p>
Walden laughed, his words loaded with insinuation. “Oh, I’m interested, of course. Especially in a project that Mr. Goodwin is backing so heavily. I’m just curious if the rapid approval of such a massive sum of money complies with The Guild of Commerce’s standard procedures.” As he spoke, his eyes shifted directly to Eleanor. “After all, the relationship between Dr. Sutton and Mr. Goodwin… well, it does make one wonder, doesn’t it p>
It was a blatant accusation, a not-so-subtle way of saying lan was using his position as chairman to line his own pockets.
The conversation around them died off all at once. All eyes were on lan and Eleanor.
Eleanor’s chest tightened. Had she dragged him into a mess after all?
lan adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses, his gaze behind the lenses sharp and unwavering. “Every major decision made by The Guild of Commerce undergoes a rigorous review and voting process. Ifyou have questions about our procedures, Mr. Wells, we are always open to external oversight and audits p>
His voice was calm but carried absolute authority.
His expression then turned icy. “As for my personal relationship with Dr. Sutton, I
don’t believe it’s for outsiders to question or speculate about p>
Walden’s face darkened. He hadn’t expected lan to be so confident, showing no sign of panic He knew the project had been approved by committee vote, but he had no immediate proof of any backroom deals.
“Mr. Wells, Dr. Sutton’s project was indeed approved by a unanimous vote,” said the board member who had been speaking with Eleanor earlier.
“The Guild of Commerce established this special fund precisely to support cutting-edge research. Dr. Sutton’s work has breakthrough potential and perfectly meets our criteria,” another board member added, clarifying the situation.
“Even the former chairman endorsed the project. Surely you don’t have any objections, Mr. Wells?” the first board member asked with a smile.
The board members’ statements effectively silenced Walden. He had intended to publicly sow doubt about lan’s conduct but had instead put himself in an awkward position.