THE DIVORCE GAMBIT From Dumped Wife to CEO's Forever novel Chapter 53

No one could have guessed just how exhilarated Julian was at that moment.

This was Master Ninth, after all.

In all of Silverhaven, barely a handful of people had ever gotten the chance to work with him.

In all of Eldermere, there were even fewer.

Yet here Julian was, effortlessly securing a partnership with the Sylvester Group.

How many people in Eldermere could claim such an honor?

Right now, he wanted nothing more than to announce the news to the entire world, but to avoid arousing Skyler's suspicion, he kept his composure—calm and collected, wearing his usual mask of humility. "Thank you for your trust, Mr. Cumming. I promise I'll keep working hard and won't let you down."

Skyler nodded, clear admiration in his eyes. "Good. Keep it up, Mr. Chandler. Even if things don't work out this time, there will always be another opportunity. It's late—I'll be heading back."

But Julian paid no mind to that "even if things don't work out" line.

He was certain Skyler was just being polite.

This partnership was as good as his.

Skyler slipped into the back seat of his car, rolled down the window, and bid Julian goodbye.

"Take care, Mr. Cumming."

Julian gave a slight bow, face full of respect. Only after the car disappeared from sight did he finally relax, fishing his phone out of his pocket and making a call.

"Hey, Dailey."

"Get started on preparations for the Sylvester Group collaboration right away."

The official paperwork hadn't even landed on his desk yet, but to Julian, the deal was already set in stone. Since he was about to work with Sylvester Group, he had to show them utmost sincerity and readiness.

Sometimes, when it's time to shine, you have to shine.

Julian wanted everyone who ever looked down on him to see just how he was turning the tables—one step at a time.

On the other end, Dailey was stunned for a moment, then replied, "Yes, Mr. Chandler. I'll get right on it."

Sylvester Group stood at the very peak of the financial world.

Landing a partnership with them was akin to receiving a golden ticket to the international finance scene.

Across Eldermere, countless companies had bent over backwards just for a shot at working with Sylvester, but for most, it remained only a dream.

Julian truly was a once-in-a-decade dark horse. The moment he made his move, the rest could only look on with envy.

As Julian's top assistant, Dailey couldn't help but feel a surge of pride.

The company would level up—and so would his own status. Even if he left Chandler Group one day, other firms would line up to recruit him.

Soon enough, thanks to the PR team's efforts, news of Julian's impending partnership with Sylvester Group had spread to every corner of Chandler Group.

The next morning, the moment Julian stepped into the office, he caught wind of hushed conversations among the staff.

"Mr. Chandler is incredible!"

"Apex was bragging about snagging some gaming superstar, but it looks like Chandler just went and outplayed them."

"Mr. Chandler is a legend!"

"I just knew he'd crush Apex."

Julian kept his expression unchanged, as if nothing fazed him, but inside, his steps felt lighter at the sound of their praise.

Victor smiled slightly. "The official documents aren't out yet. Nothing's final. No need to get worked up, VP Marshall."

A year ago, this news would have sent Victor into a panic. But now? He felt strangely unbothered.

After all, Apex had Caitlin now.

VP Marshall glanced at Victor, convinced he was being far too optimistic.

Sure, they had Caitlin—but how old was she? It wasn't just that she couldn't compete with Sylvester Group; she didn't even come close to matching Julian.

Still, as a salaried VP with no real authority, all he could do was offer his advice. The rest was out of his hands.

"Anything else?" Victor asked.

VP Marshall handed him a file. "There's a document here that needs your signature."

Victor read through, signed, and handed it back.

"One more thing, Mr. Winslow. Do you have time this afternoon? The head of Artisan Creative Group would like to meet with you."

"I'm meeting Miss Kensington this afternoon. Tomorrow will have to do."

"Understood." VP Marshall nodded and left.

**

Serendipity Café.

By the window sat a young woman in a sapphire-blue dress.

Her long hair fell in soft waves past her shoulders, and a small hat with a ribbon perched atop her head. Beneath its brim, her delicate features stood out—striking, elegant, the kind that drew second glances. Every so often, she sipped her coffee and gazed out at the scenery beyond the glass.