There was no denying that Carol's outfit was rather eye-catching that day.
At least to Jonas, the contrast it created was stunning.
Of course, he knew perfectly well that this was her strategy to lure him in... no, her underhanded attempt to seize the initiative!
Honestly, if he had come unprepared, she might really have gained the upper hand.
Fortunately, Jonas had long since mastered the skill of remaining unmoved by feminine beauty.
Two magnificent crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling. The marble walls were carved with beautiful reliefs in elaborate patterns, and under the warm, dim lighting, the exquisite tableware gleamed with an elegant luster.
At the dining table, two distinguished guests sat facing each other, while two scented candles lent atmosphere, their soft light flickering across the pair's faces.
Carol wore that splendid pale lavender evening gown, her delicate, snow-white collarbones half concealed. The elegant, billowing strapless bodice accentuated her slender waist, while strands of pure white hair fell naturally from her high updo down her back, covering her smooth shoulders exposed to the air.
Jonas wore an expensive, handmade suit and a pair of muted black patent leather shoes.
One was the director of the Arbitration Bureau, the other the chairman of the now-ascendant Alt Conglomerate. Both knew perfectly well what tonight's meeting was for, yet neither brought it up first. Instead, they discussed inconsequential matters as though making casual small talk.
"If the others in District 25 saw you now, Miss Carol, they might be quite shocked," Jonas said with a smile.
"Then you've certainly been treated to quite a sight tonight."
Carol teased him. She was very confident in her looks.
"In exchange, could you tell me what you wanted tonight, Mr. Jonas?"
Knowing that dragging things out was hardly her objective, she broached the