Chapter: 1845

Yet, the battle raged on behind the scenes, albeit subtly, allowing them to maintain a facade of friendliness.

The timing of their meeting undoubtedly had something to do with Sullivan Group. Ivan had to tread carefully, wary of any potential traps Alberto might set.

"No, I haven't," Ivan replied, after a brief pause. "Maybe I'll take a break and explore other opportunities. Or perhaps, I'll skip the corporate grind altogether and head back to my hometown to open a small shop."

“Would that make you happy, running a shop back home?"

"Well, I wouldn't have to worry about endless reports and working round the clock. Owning a little shop sounds rather appealing," Ivan admitted. But he didn't address Alberto's underlying question.

Would he truly find happiness there? Certainly not.

Once, he had been Victor's right-hand man, with a position just shy of Victor's own. But after Victor departed, Ivan found himself adrift.

The situation worsened under Odin's leadership as CEO of Sullivan Group, leaving Ivan feeling increasingly alienated.

Despite Odin's professed appreciation for Ivan, his actions told a different story. Ivan found himself gradually stripped of his role, ultimately relegated to an obscure project where he lingered for two long months.

The current Sullivan Group was a far cry from the organization he had once known and passionately fought for.

He didn't want to abandon ship, but he couldn't bear to stay either.

“I never pegged you as such a down-and-out type," Alberto remarked.

Ivan was taken aback, his gaze locking onto Alberto.

With deliberate slowness, Alberto removed his mask and locked eyes with Ivan.

Ivan couldn't believe his eyes. He leaped to his feet, staring at Alberto in sheer disbelief. “Huh? Mr. Sullivan?"

"That's right," Alberto affirmed.

Still reeling from the revelation, Ivan mumbled, "Mr. Sullivan, you're alive?"

"Would you prefer me dead?" Alberto lifted his head and glared at him.

"Not at all." Ivan denied. "Mr. Sullivan... Why are you...?"

He wanted to ask why Victor was Alberto now.

He tried to ask the question, but he had no idea how to utter the words.

“You've been by my side for so long, and this is the first time I've seen you like this," Alberto said with a smile. He recognized Ivan's overwhelming relief at finding him alive.

Loyal confidants were in short supply, and Ivan was one of the few good ones.

Though Ivan had been somewhat impetuous at the outset, he had grown increasingly composed over time. Such youthful outbursts were now a rarity.