Chapter 1610:

Once Natasha exited, Zeke strode directly to Corrine’s desk and handed her a document.

“What’s this?” she asked, casting a glance over the paperwork.

Zeke pulled out a chair and sat down as if he owned the place. “You promised me back at the restaurant that you’d help plan the hotel’s operations. Have you already forgotten?”

Corrine’s memory clicked. “But if I recall correctly, I said I would only give some advice—not take over.”

“My memory serves me just fine, Miss Holland,” Zeke replied, flashing a smirk. “At least I don’t forget the promises I make.”

Corrine was speechless.

She’d only forgotten by accident—but did he really have to be so smug about it? Acknowledging that she was in the wrong, she chose not to argue.

Zeke leaned forward. “The Ford family is quite the hot topic these days. So, tell me—do you…”

“Plan to ride the wave or retreat before the tide turns?”

Corrine’s eyes narrowed slightly. He clearly knew something.

Closing the file in front of her, she crossed her arms and met his gaze. “If you have any good advice, Mr. Cooper, I’m all ears.”

“It’s not exactly stellar advice, merely a suggestion,” Zeke murmured, propping his chin on one palm while casting a slightly teasing glance at Corrine. “I came in from Pinetree City at dawn today, and I haven’t eaten yet. Discussing anything on an empty stomach leaves me dizzy and lightheaded.”

Corrine was momentarily at a loss for words.

It suddenly made sense why he and Jules got along so well. Both seemed to seize any advantage.

“Why don’t we head to the cafeteria of my company?”

“Absolutely,” Zeke agreed with enthusiasm. “I’ve heard tales that Ford Group’s cafeteria rivals top-tier restaurants. I’m eager to see if that’s true.”

While many firms boasted impressive perks for their staff, Ford Group stood out distinctly.

It was not that the company set industry standards or claimed unmatched distinctiveness.

Rather, it was tied to Corrine’s childhood, when she followed Carl to work. Noticing her disinterest in food, Carl transformed the cafeteria, bringing in renowned chefs to cater to their tastes.

With a serene look, Corrine stood and suggested, “Let’s proceed.”

It was peak lunch hour. The moment they entered the cafeteria, heads turned. A striking man and an elegant woman walking in together? Hard not to stare.

Choosing a window-side table, Zeke casually picked up a glass of water, took a sip, and leaned back. “I’ve often wondered why you chose to remain by Nate’s side.”

“Mr. Cooper, our discussion today does not cover that topic,” Corrine replied, her tone distinctly cool.

“Miss Holland, is it possible to forgo the formalities just this once?” Zeke queried with a raised eyebrow, his observation sharp. “You used to follow me around as a little girl and even vowed one day to marry me.”

Corrine, who had just taken a drink, choked on the water at his absurd claim, coughing vigorously as she shot him a mix of embarrassment and irritation. Zeke, undisturbed, offered her a tissue box from the table. “Relax. The way you’re reacting, you’re making me think you still have feelings for me.”

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