Chapter 11 – He’s Quite Influential
Nathan didn’t need further explanation—Ethan had already anticipated his thoughts.
“I’ve investigated and sent the results to your email,” Ethan said. “The man beside Ms. Olivia is Benjamin Hayes. He’s quite influential…”
Nathan raised a brow, set down his cup, and casually moved his mouse to open the email. Within moments, Benjamin’s details appeared on the screen:
Name: Benjamin Hayes
Gender: Male
Age: 24
Profession: Senior international investment consultant at Horizon Ventures
Notable Achievements: A financial prodigy with a flawless investment record. In just three years, he has overseen more than 300 projects—none of which have failed.
The report was extensive, covering Benjamin’s education, professional history, and investment projects. Not a single detail was left out.
As Nathan skimmed through, Ethan added, “Benjamin is highly respected in Germany. Several European nobles have tried to recruit him with generous offers, but he’s declined them all.”
Nathan leaned back, surprise flickering in his eyes. “He’s certainly impressive… but what’s his connection to Olivia?”
Given how Olivia had left years ago, there was no way she should be associated with someone of this caliber. And yet, the facts suggested otherwise.
Ethan hesitated slightly before speaking. “According to my findings… Ms. Olivia and Benjamin have a superior-subordinate relationship.”
Nathan’s fingers froze on the mouse. “You’re saying Olivia works for Horizon Ventures?”
Ethan nodded. “Yes.”
Nathan’s expression relaxed slightly. If Olivia was merely an employee, there was no need for concern. He gave a faint nod. “That’s good. She can learn a lot from a man like him.”
Ethan hesitated again, then swallowed hard. “That’s not quite it… According to my investigation, Ms. Olivia isn’t just an employee—she’s the general manager of Horizon Ventures.” He took a deep breath before dropping the real bombshell. “And Benjamin… is her subordinate.”
Nathan’s eyes widened. “What?”
For the first time in a long while, genuine shock crossed his face.
Ethan shared the sentiment. Back then, Olivia had been insignificant, forced out of Carter Manor in disgrace. No one could have imagined that five years later, she would rise to such a position—leading a powerhouse company, with even a man like Benjamin under her command.
It was an unfathomable transformation.
Nathan remained silent for a long moment, processing the information. His heart felt restless.
The frail girl who once hid behind me for protection… has grown this much?
“I double-checked the details,” Ethan continued. “Ms. Olivia joined Horizon Ventures three years ago. Within six months, she climbed to the position of general manager. She has the full trust of the senior executives and shareholders.”
He then added, “Also, Horizon Ventures is planning to open a branch in Emberfall. This morning, international financial news reported that someone will be sent to Wirthon to oversee the expansion.
“At first, Ms. Olivia had a return flight booked to Germany the same night she arrived… but she canceled it. She’s staying in Emberfall. Not only that, but she’s even purchased a home there. I suspect she’s the one in charge of the new branch.”
Nathan’s initial astonishment faded, replaced by an unfamiliar sensation—Olivia felt like a stranger to him now.
She was no longer the girl he once knew.
His eyes darkened slightly as he pushed aside the unsettling feeling in his chest. Instead, he focused on a more pressing question.
“What’s her address?”
Ethan answered without hesitation. “Number thirty-six, Scenica Bay.”
Nathan’s gaze flickered.
Scenica Bay… So she was truly settling down here.
