Chapter 24 Dinner at Golden Dragon Pavilion 2
Rafael patiently observed Hera as she busied herself with her phone, silently intrigued by the scheme she seemed to be concocting with her friend. Although he remained unaware of her exact intentions, it was evident to him that whoever she was targeting was in for a rough time.
The transformation Hera underwent since the earlier interview was striking. The vulnerable woman he had seen on screen is now gone, replaced by a woman exuding a captivating confidence and charm that even he found intriguing.
Once Hera and Athena finished their little fun, Hera cleared her throat and spoke, "Thank you so much for your patience, sir. We are also grateful for your assistance when we encountered trouble earlier."
Rafael’s gaze remained fixed on Hera, his thoughts veiled behind his expression. Hera, however, maintained her composure, meeting his gaze with confidence, as if they were in the midst of a business negotiation. Meanwhile, Athena felt a shiver run down her spine.
After a brief pause, Rafael spoke, his smile restrained. "I should be the one thanking you."
Hera tilted her head slightly, puzzled by his words. "I’m afraid you’ve mistaken me for someone else, sir. I can’t fathom why you’d thank me."
Rafael chuckled softly before explaining, "I’m thanking you for not implicating my sister during your earlier interview, despite having the opportunity to do so."
It was only at that moment that Hera’s mental gears started to turn, connecting the dots. "And you are?" she inquired, though she already knew the answer.
"Apologies for the delayed introduction. I am Rafael, Rafael Briley. Minerva’s older brother," he stated, neither rising nor offering any gesture of respect, but emanating an aura of arrogance befitting one in a position of power.
However, Hera remained unruffled, having anticipated this encounter. She understood that sooner or later, Rafael would confront her on behalf of his cherished sister.
She understood that while the general public might not grasp the significance of her actions during the interview, those with discerning eyes would see through the petty and immature schemes she played. ’But what of it?’