Chapter: 1604

News came from the hospital. Gil's dwindling energy necessitated the promotion of another to deputy director. This person would oversee different aspects than Gil, yet major decisions still required Norah's preliminary approval.

After she briefly dealt with the messages, Norah resolved to disconnect from work during her travel by shutting off her phone.

Outside Dreamview Villas, Alyssa fidgeted nervously with her fingers, casting occasional covert glances at Bryson. Since her return from Sevaedda, she had gone on three setup blind dates. Among them, Bryson stood out as her favorite.

Her father had meticulously chosen these men, prioritizing their reliability to shield her from potential harm.

Previously circulated rumors about Bryson’ had been thoroughly dispelled; he was in fact a stellar company manager.

Upon receiving Bryson's invitation for a gathering teeming with guests and including his sister, Alyssa pondered for a moment before agreeing.

She understood marriage extended beyond simple companionship; it involved getting to know his family dynamics and observing his sister's behavior.

Bryson presented himself in a manner that Alyssa found most appealing. He maintained a dignified and courteous demeanor, never. stepping out of line once he knew who she was.

Alyssa saw the forthcoming trip as an opportunity to scrutinize him more closely.

She aimed to settle for a partner she truly appreciated, trusting her father would back her choice.

"Bryson, can you tell me who else will be on this trip? Will it be awkward for me to join you?" Alyssa inquired, her voice laced with anxiety.

Bryson caught the nervous undertone in her voice. Looking over his glasses, he responded, "A notable person will be attending, but you shouldn't worry. Besides us, there will be three other couples."

Alyssa blushed, her gaze dropping. "Then, won't it be awkward for us to join?"

The thought of joining as potentially the only non-coupled pair, especially since their acquaintance began on a blind date, filled her with apprehension.

"Don't worry, I'll take care of you," Bryson reassured her, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. As they approached the villa, his grip on the steering wheel tightened slightly upon spotting the awaiting group.

"Here we are." The car slowed to a gentle stop beside the road.

Taking a deep breath, Alyssa braced herself for the social interaction. As the daughter of a prominent family, she was well-versed in mingling with diverse groups. Confident in Bryson's company, she had chosen not to bring any bodyguards.

Lifting her gaze, she quickly surveyed the crowd by the roadside. Her eyes widened slightly when she recognized two familiar faces.

Joanna, noticing the car's arrival, addressed her friends. "Look who's here! Not only my brother but also his blind date. I'm counting on you all to help them click during this trip."

The group was instantly on board with Joanna's plan.

Joanna introduced, "This is Alyssa Castro, the only daughter of the president of the Crestview Trust Bank. She's quite the charmer. I really like her, which is why I convinced my brother to invite her."

Norah immediately sensed that Joanna's influence had played a role in their attendance.

In her view, Bryson typically wouldn't bring a woman he was not officially dating to a gathering.

She exchanged a quick glance with Sean. They both remembered Alyssa from a skiing trip in Sevaedda, where she had left a significant impression.