I Once Married You (Harper and Benjamin)
Chapter 58

Chapter 58 Ms. Mitchell

In the conference room, Harper projected the artwork onto the big screen. She addressed Charlie Kerr, the representative of the Martin Group, "The artwork encompasses exterior, interior, and landscaping designs. Could you please review it for any necessary modifications?"

Harper's design was sophisticated, blending novelty with classical elements seamlessly.

Charlie, an experienced professional, scrutinized the drawings meticulously, replaceing no faults.

He raised a few inquiries, and Harper responded confidently, demonstrating her thorough preparation.

Charlie nodded in satisfaction. "I'm pleased with it, but I'll need to submit it for approval from our superiors. This project has garnered significant attention and is one of the most anticipated buildings in Mayby this year. Is that okay for you, Ms. Mitchell?"

Harper replied calmly, "Of course not, this is standard procedure."

The Summit Realty representative remained silent throughout the discussion, recognizing the professional nature of their conversation. Although Summit Realty was involved in the design, some intricacies still eluded them.

After the review, Harper offered her own insights on the drawings. As they conversed, the conference room door swung open, drawing everyone's attention. Several people looked at him at the same time. The one who was entering was a tall man with striking features.

Charlie greeted him promptly, "Mr. Martin, you've arrived just in time. We were discussing the project."

The Summit Realty representative introduced himself courteously, "Hello, Mr. Martin, I'm the representative from Summit Realty."

Benjamin acknowledged the introduction with a slight nod, his gaze directed towards Harper, who sat quietly.

Charlie said, "Mr. Martin, this is the architect, Ms. Mitchell."

"Hello, Ms. Mitchell," Benjamin greeted, his voice low and husky, his demeanor gentle.

Harper rose to her feet, meeting his gaze. "Hello, Mr. Martin."

This encounter marked their first formal meeting outside.

With Benjamin's arrival, the atmosphere grew more reserved.

Charlie invited Harper to present the drawings once again, asking Benjamin for his input.

As Harper complied, her attention was drawn to Benjamin's expression. His furrowed brows and serious behavior unsettled her.

Then, Benjamin addressed her, "How do you like this project? Ms. Mitchell."

It was hard to tell whether he was satisfied with the design or not by his expression or voice.

Harper met Benjamin's gaze with unwavering resolve and addressed him directly, stating, "Mr. Martin, I believe the overall outline design of this artwork is qualified. Any perceived flaws would likely be minor, about architectural and exterior details. Personally, I am highly satisfied with the design."

Her words were straightforward.

But the person in charge of Summit Realty was anxious and quickly explained, "Mr. Martin, this is not what Ms. Mitchell meant. If you have any requirements, we can modify them according to your requirements."

"Ms. Mitchell, Mr. Martin is our sponsor, and his request is our request." The person in charge of Summit Realty leaned into Harper's ear and whispered to her, advising her not to refute any of Benjamin's requests.

Harper frowned slightly but said nothing, but the words of the person in charge made her feel uncomfortable.

A person's professional ethics bottom line should not be influenced by money.

Some designs may lose their flavor once modified.

Benjamin noticed this scene. He leaned on the chair and looked at Harper and Summit Realty's manager.

Then he asked calmly, "Charlie, do you think Ms. Mitchell's words are correct?"

Charlie had been working in Martin Group for ages. In this regard, he believed that Benjamin would not blindly use the money to change something right.

So he confessed, "I think Ms. Mitchell had a point."

The person in charge of Summit Realty was slightly stunned, and a little confused.

Benjamin raised his lips and smiled lightly, "Me too."

With that minor incident behind them, everything proceeded smoothly.

The adjustments to the artwork were settled, and as they engaged in casual conversation, it became evident that dinner time had arrived.

Glancing at the time, Curtis said on behalf of Benjamin, "Thanks for your hard work, Mr. Martin. Let's have a meal together. The hotel has been reserved. Let's set off now."

Summit Realty manager felt flattered by the invitation, and Harper readily agreed, though Charlie sensed that this meal held significance beyond mere collaboration.

Anyway, to most people at the meeting, it was a rare chance to have dinner with Benjamin.

As they gathered in front of the Martin Building, Benjamin requested Harper, "Ms. Mitchell, please take a car with me. I have some questions about design convenience that I'd like to discuss." Harper accepted with a light smile, and as they departed, the atmosphere between them remained intriguingly calm, devoid of any conspicuous reactions or tensions.

Then, Harper's phone chimed with a message from Frank.

[Are you done?]

[Well, it's just over. I will have dinner with them. I may have to go back to the company later.] Harper texted him back.

[Okay, call me if you need anything.]

[Okay.]

After a brief exchange, Harper observed Benjamin's gaze fixed on her, devoid of emotion.

Meeting his eyes directly, they shared a silent moment before the arrival of the driver broke their connection.

Just as they prepared to depart, a familiar voice interrupted. Lauren approached gracefully, her demeanor warm and inviting as she expressed her desire to dine with Benjamin. "Benjamin, are you off work?"

Lauren walked over slowly. She wore a light green dress, her hair was spread over her shoulders, and she had exquisite makeup. Her beautiful face showed a delicate smile, her voice was as gentle as water, and her address was so intimate, it was hard not to think deeply.

Benjamin also raised his eyes and looked over, asking, "Why are you here?"

"I came here to have dinner with you." She glanced at Harper, then glanced at the other people aside, and whispered, "Do you have any arrangements?"

"Yes," he said calmly.

Lauren looked lonely. "I guess I came at the wrong time."

She greeted others, her sweet and gentle smile made her irresistible.

Charlie said, "Is this, Ms. Davis? It's an honor to meet you."

"Yes, you are more beautiful than I saw on TV."

The people on Summit Realty's side also echoed.

Lauren responded one by one friendly. Although she was a celebrity, she could not help but feel flattered by the good words.

One of the Martin Group employee asked, "Is Ms. Davis here to see Mr. Martin?"