Divorce Time 42
Charlene’s face froze. “Vesta? Do you mean Vesta Hawkins? The one who just got back from Goldland?
Stewart nodded, surprised. “Yeah, you know her?”
“She’s my half-sister,” Charlene revealed
Stewart was shocked. He had heard more or less about Charlene’s family situation, but this coincidence caught him off guard.
Charlene’s gaze turned icy as she added another piece to the puzzle. “She’s also Thorne’s mistress?
The car screeched to a halt. “You-”
Charlene shook her head. “I’m fine.” Her expression was eerily calm as she continued, “Call it nepotism or whatever, but I don’t want her joining our company.” Stewart’s demeanor shifted to one of firm agreement. “You don’t have to worry. I support your decision?
Charlene felt a warm feeling inside. “Thank you.” She paused, then added, “But that means you’re missing out on a talent.”
Stewart chuckled, giving her a knowing look. “She might be a genius in coding, but compared to you, she’s not worth much.” He spoke with unwavering sincerity. Charlene was stunned, thinking Stewart was laying it on thick.
Reading her thoughts, Stewart assured, “I’m serious.”
Charlene hadn’t expected such a bold statement. After a moment, she asked, “She’s been interviewed a while ago. Why hasn’t she started working yet?” Stewart shook his head. “She mentioned having some matters to sort out. I didn’t pry.”
They arrived at their destination ten minutes later, with Charlene deep in thought.
“What’s on your mind?” Stewart inquired.
“I don’t get why she’d want to join our company,” Charlene mused. Even though their company was doing well, there were bigger fishes in the sea. With Vesta’s credentials and background, her opportunities were endless. Since Charlene was a major yet secret shareholder, she doubted Vesta knew about their ties.
So, Vesta’s interest wasn’t likely personal.
Stewart stroked his chin and smiled. “When we talked, she mentioned our company’s programming language, CUAP. She seemed intrigued by it.”
CUAP was a language Charlene had led a team to develop at 17. Initially deemed average by many, it had become the company’s most formidable asset. Its complexity had stumped even the most skilled teams, elevating it to a nearly mythical status within the industry. Vesta was drawn to this programming marvel.
“Come to think of it. Many top talents have joined us in the last few years, all because of CUAP,” Stewart added.
Charlene was surprised by this revelation.
Seeing her reaction, Stewart gently patted her head, chuckling. “That’s why I’m saying, she’s nothing compared to you. Your skill in our field is something I, someone who knows you really well, can back up.”
After all, before Charlene emerged on the scene, Stewart had been a prodigy admired by many.