Before Grace Sutton could say anything, Alice Parker set his wine glass down on the desk. Leisurely straightening his clothes, he opened the door to the president’s office and strode out. He had barely walked a few steps when a crisp sound came from inside. It was obvious that the poor glass Alice Parker had just left behind had become the substitute victim of the icy beauty’s wrath.

Meanwhile, that Lina had clearly heard the commotion from inside as well. Knowing it was trouble stirred up by Alice Parker, she shot him a fierce, flirtatious glare before hurrying into the office.

……

As for Alice Parker, he continued to play his game leisurely as if nothing had happened. Half the day passed in a flash. Glancing at his watch, he saw it was five minutes to six. Just then, Henry Carter called, inviting him out for a decadent dinner.

After tidying up a bit, he took the elevator down to the first floor. As usual, he bantered with the receptionist for a few moments before driving off in his battered Bora. When he arrived at the restaurant, he had only drunk half a cup of tea before the vigorous Henry Carter strode into the private room. As soon as he entered, he gave Alice Parker a hearty slap on the shoulder, laughing, “You rascal, you actually made my niece smash a glass today, and now you’re sitting here as if nothing happened. The younger generation is truly formidable, truly formidable!” As he spoke, he pulled out a cigarette and offered it.

“This cigarette is too mild, it’s really not satisfying to smoke.” Alice Parker took it, frowned slightly, and just set it on the table.

“Knew you’d be picky.” Henry Carter laughed heartily, slowly opened his bag, and tossed a pack of cigarettes in front of him. “Here, last time you mentioned you were used to smoking Northeastern cigarettes. I happen to have a friend in that business, so I got you some to try. This is a special supply Changbai Mountain, definitely strong enough.”

Alice Parker was overjoyed—this special supply Changbai was his favorite in the past. He hurriedly tore open the pack, lit one in a rush, and took a deep drag. The familiar taste wrapped around his heart in a hundred ways. In those eyes that rarely revealed the truth, a rare trace of bittersweet tenderness appeared.

But it lasted only a moment before he returned to normal, grinning as he patted Henry Carter on the shoulder. “Old Qian, are you trying to mess with me? Once I finish these, where am I supposed to find more of this special supply Changbai?” Alice Parker knew full well that Old Qian’s story about getting them easily was nonsense. No Huahai tobacco dealer would bother with Northeastern special supply cigarettes. Clearly, this Henry Carter was a thoughtful man—no wonder he was so adept at navigating the company.

“As long as you like it. If you’re ever worried about running out, just treat this old man well, and if I’m in a good mood, I’ll reward you with a pack or two.” A glint flashed in Old Qian’s eyes—it was clear he hadn’t missed the rare look in Alice Parker’s eyes just now.

“Thank you for your imperial favor, Grandpa Qian.” Alice Parker said solemnly, bowing in mock seriousness. His act made several pretty waitresses nearby giggle behind their hands.

Chapter 12: Scheming and Deceit

“You little rascal, Alice Parker, you really have no respect for your elders. And to think I was considering marrying my daughter to you. Well, I’m telling you now, you’re completely out of luck.” Henry Carter scolded him with a laugh, then snatched a cigarette from Alice Parker’s hand, lighting it up as he grinned. “I want to see what’s so great about this cigarette that you’re so obsessed with.”

He had barely taken a puff when Henry Carter’s brows first furrowed, then immediately relaxed as he praised, “Good cigarette, good cigarette! I didn’t expect you, Alice Parker, to have such good taste. Heh, you’ve got me hooked too. I was going to bring you a whole box today, but now we’ll split it half and half.”

His sincerity warmed even Alice Parker’s heart, and he couldn’t help but secretly admire Henry Carter—he really was something, always finding ways to draw people closer. In just a short time, he’d already become a close friend.

After that, the two of them feasted and drank until they were half-drunk. Then they drove to their usual spot for a bath, steamed in the sauna, and after a soak, went for a massage together.

Although this was only a mid-to-high-end entertainment venue, Huahai City’s booming economy made it an ideal place for girls from all over to work. With the high numbers came high quality. Not bad at all, but given their status, neither of them would stoop to anything too risqué here. At most, they’d enjoy a sensual massage to relax their muscles and ease their moods.

The proprietress was an old acquaintance of Henry Carter, and both Alice Parker and his companion were known for their generosity. Even for a massage, they insisted on the best. Hearing they were coming, the staff had already arranged everything in advance.

The old and the young sat together in the same room, chatting and joking while enjoying skillful acupressure.

“Sir, you really have a great physique.” The girl massaging Alice Parker blushed, whether from shyness or the heat. “I’m almost too tired to keep going.” Though it sounded like flattery, Alice Parker’s body was indeed impressive—his lines were hard and full of explosive power, but unlike bodybuilders, his muscles weren’t overly bulky or stiff. With just a touch, one could feel the resilience and elasticity.