Pressing the cigarette that was almost finished into the ashtray, Nathan Leafcastle turned around, walked to the table, opened the locked drawer, and took out the document he had handwritten earlier, placing it on the table.

After pondering for a moment, he picked up the pen again, crossed out Irene Spencer’s name, and wrote "Jade River Project" and "Kris Cooper" below.

As he listed out the entire plan in his mind, he lifted the corners of his mouth into a cold smile.

"Christoper Cooper, Kris Cooper, Ashton... this time, I will bring you to utter ruin!"

The door was gently pushed open, and Sally Dalton, wearing her pajamas, walked in. Seeing him sitting at the table, seriously going through the materials, she couldn’t help but reveal a look of distress.

"So late, and still not asleep?"

Upon hearing her voice, a hint of panic flashed across Nathan Leafcastle’s eyes. His hand instinctively gathered the documents on the table, but after thinking it over, he set down the pen and smiled at her. 𝗳𝚛𝗲𝕖𝚠𝚎𝚋𝗻𝗼𝕧𝗲𝐥.𝚌𝚘𝐦

"I wanted to get more familiar with the Jade River Project to secure more opportunities for Barker."

Walking to the table, glancing at the photos and research reports on the Jade River, Sally Dalton didn’t think much of it and simply reached her hand over to cover his.

"I know, what Dad said during the day was a bit over the line, and I apologize on his behalf. In fact, everyone knows how excellent you are; you really don’t have to push yourself so hard."

"Sally." Nathan Leafcastle turned his hand to grasp hers, "I understand. I’m always grateful for the Dalton Family’s trust in me, and I know that without you, I couldn’t have gotten where I am today."

"No, Nathan!" Sally Dalton looked at his face seriously, "This has nothing to do with me. It’s you who is truly excellent. Even if we didn’t have this relationship, you’d still be Barker’s CEO because you... have the qualifications."

The girl’s eyes shone brightly, full of admiration and appreciation as she looked into his eyes.

"Back in university, you were always outstanding. Since you joined Barker, the company’s performance has soared, this is obvious to all. Whether it’s your decision-making ability or execution capability, you’re one of the best I’ve ever seen. If you think Dad chose you because of me, then you’re gravely mistaken."

Standing up, Nathan Leafcastle gently embraced her waist.

"Sally, you really are a wonderful woman."

"Of course," Sally Dalton smiled, "I think my best trait is my judgment."

Holding her, Nathan Leafcastle took a deep breath.

"After completing the Jade River Project, I will leave Barker..."

"Why?" Sally Dalton looked up in surprise, "You’re... you’re leaving?!"

"No, I’m not leaving; I just want to exit Barker and start anew." Nathan Leafcastle raised his hand to cup her face, "I will prove that your judgment is indeed right."

"But..."

"I’ve already decided, don’t try to persuade me."

Sally Dalton furrowed her brow but ultimately nodded.

She understood Nathan Leafcastle’s pride.

Such is the perception of the world, no matter how hard he worked, people always couldn’t help but think of his relationship with her, assuming he only climbed up by relying on Sally Dalton.

"No matter what, I will support you."

"Thank you." Nathan Leafcastle reached out to hug her tightly, "Sally, just wait a bit more, once I’ve left Barker and have my own space, I will propose to you in front of everyone."

With her face against his chest, she smiled blissfully, reaching to embrace his waist.

"Alright."