Chapter 9 There She Was, Standing Right There

When Zachary returned to the hospital room, his mood was tinged with disappointment.

Dylan noticed his distracted demeanor and had his suspicions about what was troubling his grandson.

This grandson of his had always been brilliant, except when it came to matters of the heart, where he'd never had a clue.

Dylan had witnessed firsthand how Zachary had spiraled into depression after Sophia left, then watched him transform back into that cold, detached version of himself, living alone as if nothing had ever happened.

Zachary suddenly set down his utensils and asked out of the blue, "Grandpa, have you seen any strange children around the hospital lately?"

Dylan immediately thought of Julia and Simon.

Those two children were sharp as whips—one looked exactly like Sophia had as a child, while the other bore a striking resemblance to Zachary. Anyone would find them absolutely adorable.

What a shame that Zachary could never see his own heart clearly.

Not to mention the damage he'd inflicted on Sophia's heart with his past actions.

With this in mind, Dylan shook his head. "I haven't seen any children around."

Zachary looked away, disappointed, then noticed the fruit basket on the bedside table.

"Grandpa, did someone visit you today?"

Instantly, Zachary's heart leaped into his throat.

All the relatives had already visited during Dylan's first few days in the hospital.

Thinking about the silhouette he'd glimpsed earlier, one that looked so much like Sophia, Zachary found himself secretly hoping she had returned.

Dylan smiled. "An old friend I hadn't seen in ages stopped by to check on me."

Seeing the obvious disappointment in Zachary's eyes, Dylan changed tack. "Who did you think it might be?"

Zachary didn't answer, simply picking at his food absent-mindedly.

The answer was obvious, but Zachary refused to acknowledge it.

Sophia had left so decisively back then, not even leaving him a goodbye.

Deep down, he couldn't bring himself to admit he was hoping for her return.

After leaving Dylan's room, Zachary remained silent for a long while.

He instructed James, "Look into who visited Grandpa today."

After a pause, Zachary's expression grew stern as he added, "Handle this personally."

James was momentarily taken aback but quickly composed himself and nodded in agreement.

"Mr. Spencer, you have a meeting tomorrow morning with SummitGlory Investment Group. I've heard that Vanguard Enterprises Group has confirmed their attendance as well."

Vanguard Enterprises Group had been Spencer Group's longtime rival. Ever since Zachary took over Spencer Group, the two companies had been locked in fierce competition for domestic market share.

This SummitGlory Investment Group funding round was crucial for both companies.

Zachary had a major new project that required significant investment. With SummitGlory's backing, the venture would be much more secure.

Vanguard Enterprises Group wasn't backing down either, seemingly determined to compete with Zachary to the bitter end.

According to insider information from SummitGlory's senior management, they were only planning to invest in one company this round.

The Spencer Group had deep roots and established credibility—their tech division was just one arm of a diversified empire, giving them natural advantages over Vanguard Enterprises Group, the tech industry's rising star.

Zachary was determined to secure SummitGlory's support.

Zachary frowned slightly. "Who's representing Vanguard Enterprises Group at the meeting?"

James's expression grew serious. "Lucas. He was flying back to Emerald City tonight to attend personally."

Zachary's eyes took on a dangerous glint.

The name Lucas Brown echoed in his mind.

If there was anyone in the business field who could truly challenge Zachary, it was Lucas.

Lucas had built his empire from nothing during college, creating a successful enterprise in just a few years that could rival Spencer Group's tech division.

Lucas was one of the rare opponents who could make Zachary feel genuinely threatened.

"I'll attend tomorrow morning's funding meeting myself."

Zachary closed his eyes briefly.

Strangely, after making this decision, his heart began racing.

As if he could sense that something momentous was about to happen tomorrow.

The next morning, at SummitGlory Investment Group's headquarters.

A sleepless investment banking elite stumbled downstairs for coffee, with dark circles under his eyes, only to be greeted by Zachary's flashy black Maybach.

James had prepared meticulously for this funding meeting and was still briefing Zachary even after they entered the elevator.

"I've already held preliminary meetings with SummitGlory's middle and senior management. Their investment interest is extremely high. We're talking at least this much."

James didn't say the number aloud, instead mysteriously holding up three fingers.

Thirty billion dollars.

That figure was absolutely astronomical.

Meanwhile, Sophia strode confidently in a tailored charcoal-gray suit, her high heels clicking against the floor without missing a beat.

She reported to Lucas with evident enthusiasm, "Mr. Brown, we're going to nail this funding round. I've already sent the detailed project proposal to SummitGlory's inbox."

Lucas glanced up lazily. "Sophia, aren't you tired?"

Sophia paused briefly. "After we wrap this project, we'll have plenty of time to rest."

Lucas waved his hand dismissively. "Have you considered my offer? Come work for Vanguard Enterprises Group full-time. I can match the industry's highest salary standards, plus equity participation with profit-sharing terms entirely up to you."

Sophia clutched her project folder, her expression calm. "Mr. Brown, this is the final year I agreed to work for you. You also promised you wouldn't pressure me to join Vanguard Enterprises Group permanently."

The elevator stopped smoothly at the thirtieth floor.

Zachary and James stepped out, and Zachary's gaze immediately landed on Lucas's group as they passed by.

Zachary's eyes focused precisely on the woman beside Lucas.

His heart stopped.

For a moment, Zachary wondered if he was losing his mind, seeing Sophia in every woman he encountered.

They quickly rounded the corner, the woman's flowing hair concealing her profile, but Zachary felt an overwhelming sense of familiarity.

Could she really be working for Lucas? Zachary's mind raced with suspicion, his steps faltering.

James called out carefully, "Mr. Spencer, we should head to the conference room."

To ensure a more accurate assessment of both potential investment targets, Vanguard Enterprises Group and Spencer Group held separate funding presentations.

SummitGlory Investment Group's evaluation team was incredibly efficient. After an hour-long assessment meeting, they delivered their final decision.

When the results were announced, cheers erupted from Vanguard Enterprises Group's conference room.

Employees who'd worked countless late nights celebrated like they'd won a major battle.

Sophia stood to congratulate Lucas. "Mr. Brown, congratulations."

Lucas smiled, then said, "My offer to you never expires. Whenever you're ready, you're welcome to join us."

Sophia smiled back. "Thank you for giving me that opportunity, Mr. Brown."

They rode down to the underground parking garage together, where Lucas naturally extended an invitation.

"How about drinks tonight? Let's celebrate landing another major project."

Sophia checked her watch. "Sorry, Mr. Brown, but the kids are waiting for me at home."

Zachary emerged into the parking garage with a grim expression, James at his side.

Losing this funding wouldn't significantly impact operations, but being beaten by Vanguard Enterprises Group left a bitter taste.

"I'll contact new investment banks immediately and push the planning department to develop fresh proposals as soon as possible."

James rattled off work updates beside him while Zachary rubbed his temples.

He glanced ahead casually, then froze completely as if paralyzed.

Zachary saw a face he knew better than any other.

The face that had haunted his dreams for five years but had never returned to his side.

Sophia stood beside her car, having just opened the door to get in.

There she was, standing right there!