Chapter 639 An Acquaintance
Catherine immediately got in touch with Branden after leaving the lab. Branden drove to pick up Catherine and took her to Oceanvile’s most famous restaurant.
It was a rare outing for them. Catherine was tied up with work, so he decided to help her unwind a bit during her free time.
Catherine didn’t mind. She knew everything would be taken care of with Branden around.
However, Branden didn’t know that the restaurant he carefully picked out would lead Catherine to run into an acquaintance.
Erick was stunned when he saw Catherine, but he quickly realized the situation. “Catherine, you’re in Oceanvile!” he greeted in delight.
After looking up, Catherine caught sight of Erick. Her expression softened as she replied, “Just came over for something urgent.”
“Great! I didn’t expect to bump into you here. What a coincidence! Let’s have dinner together, Catherine,” Erick said with excitement.
The restaurant owner, who was standing next to Erick, was astonished at Erick’s behavior. He had known Erick for some time and was used to Erick’s distant demeanor.
This was the first time he had seen Erick initiate a conversation with a girl, especially with such enthusiasm.
Moreover, this girl not only had a beautiful appearance, she also exuded a powerful aura. Even someone like Erick, a top figure in the new era, appeared humble in her presence.
Taking note of Erick’s excitement, the owner said, “Mr. Olsen, shall I open the top-floor VIP room for you?”
Erick knew the top-floor VIP room was usually reserved and understood the owner’s gesture was meant to please him.
However, the owner’s assessment was spot on this time.
Erick looked at Catherine and waited for her opinion.
Catherine was not bothered. She considered Erick a friend, and it was nice to grab a meal together when they bumped into each other.
Seeing Erick’s inquisitive look, she generously said, “Let’s go together.”
Branden had no reason to refuse since Catherine agreed.
He casually wrapped an arm around Catherine’s waist and guided her toward him. Then he glanced at Erick and said, “Mr. Olsen, you know Oceanvile quite well. Just lead the way, Mr. Olsen.”
Erick made rapid progress after taking over the reins of the Winfreds family. Catherine had supported and helped him significantly behind the scenes. She even arranged manpower for him.
Of course, Erick had never betrayed Catherine. He despised the Winfreds and the wealth they had.
From the start, he had aimed to ruin the Winfred Group and make Xavier see how easily he could destroy what Xavier had built.
However, when he found out Catherine needed money and the Winfred Group could generate profits, he managed it well to provide funds for Catherine.
Half of the profits from the Winfred Group went straight into the Arbotte Laboratory.
He wanted to give everything to Catherine, but Catherine refused.
So, he held onto it for her, and he was ready to offer it all whenever she needed it.
Looking at Branden, Erick smiled.
However, Erick’s smile faded as he noticed Branden’s hand planted firmly around Catherine’s waist.
He knew that no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t catch up to Branden.
That was why Branden could stand beside Catherine while he could only look up at her.
Suppressing his emotions, Erick politely extended his hand. “Mr. Duncan, this way.”
This time, Branden emerged as the clear winner without much effort.
