My Coldhearted Husband’s Regret

Observing Veronica's unmoved expression when she saw the pair, he inclined his head slightly with a smile and said, "I'll go over for a minute."

Both Veronica and Dario acknowledged with a nod.

Marco approached the duo and had barely exchanged pleasantries with Cullen and Niall when Maverick materialized at the gathering as well.

Upon spotting Niall, Maverick instinctively gravitated toward her.

Niall glanced his way, offering a modest smile. "Mr. Harris."

"Ms. Crystal." Maverick had been swamped with work lately and hadn't seen Niall for some time. Now in her presence, admiration flickered across his features. He allowed himself an additional discreet glance before greeting Marco and Cullen.

DataPulse had become an invaluable partner for the Harris Group. After a brief exchange with Marco, Maverick made his way to Dario, taking the initiative to greet him.

Following their cordial conversation, Maverick acknowledged Veronica with a tepid, "Ms. Murray." Veronica merely smiled, offering no verbal response.

DataPulse had distributed invitations for their upcoming banquet, yet the Harris Group wasn't among the recipients. Maverick had only discovered this oversight tonight.

If DataPulse hadn't extended an invitation to him, the likelihood of Veronica and Dario attending the Harris Group's event tomorrow seemed slim at best.

This realization caused Maverick's brow to furrow slightly.

Neither Veronica nor Dario showed any interest in engaging with him. Dario cut the interaction short, saying, "Mr. Harris, we need to greet some old acquaintances. Please excuse us."

Without awaiting a reply, they turned and departed.

Maverick was well aware they simply wanted to avoid conversation with him. In truth, he had hoped to cultivate a favorable relationship with Dario. Despite their long-standing business connection, Dario had consistently maintained his distance. His aversion was so evident that he made no attempt to disguise it.

Maverick compressed his lips, displeased but rendered speechless. He could only watch as they walked away.

For the past quarter, DataPulse had been the industry's focal point. Consequently, many attendees eagerly approached Veronica and Dario to exchange greetings.

Among them were several business partners DataPulse had recently collaborated with.

Since DataPulse's investment conference, Veronica had handled numerous deals. As a result, many business partners who had interacted with her recognized her formidable industry knowledge.

Some had even discreetly attempted to recruit her, though Veronica had declined each offer.

Nevertheless, these executives maintained a respectful demeanor toward her.

Seeing her again tonight, one couldn't resist publicly trying to poach her right in front of Dario.

"Ms. Murray, our company ranks among the nation's elite firms. The benefits package is outstanding, and we offer considerable flexibility. Whatever terms you desire, we're open to discussion."

Such audacity was remarkable.

Veronica smiled, declining with politeness, "I currently have no intentions of leaving DataPulse, but I appreciate your interest, Mr. Rhea."

Hearing her refusal once more, William Rhea exhaled a heavy sigh.

Shortly after, someone noticed his crestfallen expression and inquired, "William, what's troubling you tonight? If I didn't know better, I'd think you just missed out on a billion-dollar opportunity."

"The comparison isn't far off."

Since the individual wasn't a business rival, William confided, "I've encountered an exceptional talent, but despite my persistent efforts, she remains unmoved."

"Really? Who might that be?"

"Ms. Murray from DataPulse."

"Her? She appears quite young. Is she genuinely that capable?"

"Without question."

His company's leading technical experts had spoken highly of her after their conversations. These weren't ordinary professionals—they represented the cream of the younger generation, personally recruited by William himself.

For them to offer such lavish praise spoke volumes about her capabilities.

Niall remained unaware of the accolades Veronica was receiving, engaged in conversation with Stephen.

After interacting with several attendees, Maverick distanced himself from the crowd. Noticing Niall wasn't with Cullen, he approached her.

Seeing him draw near, Niall offered a faint smile. "Mr. Harris."

Maverick nodded, then glanced at Stephen and inquired, "And this is...?"

Niall introduced Stephen' background, adding, "He's my mentor now. I've been studying under him for some time and have gained invaluable insights."

She had previously expressed her ambition to become Malcolm's student and had been steadfastly pursuing that goal.

Hearing her speak now, Maverick realized her determination surpassed even his estimation. He admired her persistence and reverence for knowledge.

Stepping back, he said, "I'll leave you two to continue."

Niall nodded and resumed her discussion with Stephen.

Seeing her so engrossed, Maverick found it difficult to avert his gaze.

Just then, someone approached him for conversation, prompting his departure.

Moments later, Maverick excused himself from the crowd, intending to visit the restroom. En route, he spotted Veronica and Cullen off to the side.

He halted abruptly.

The memory of Cullen embracing Veronica from a few months prior suddenly resurfaced in his mind.

Before he could fully process his thoughts, he observed Cullen selecting a piece of cake and offering it to Veronica.

Maverick's expression darkened. He compressed his lips and moved toward them.

Veronica made no move to accept the offered cake.

As Maverick drew near, Cullen detected his approach and turned. "Mr. Harris."