Chapter 233

To advance the Westridge project, Leonard Blackwood arranged an exclusive golf outing with Mayor Harrington and his wife at the prestigious Silvercrest Country Club.

The private course, typically reserved for elite clientele, appeared completely deserted today—a clear sign it had been booked for this high-profile gathering. Only the Blackwoods and Harringtons occupied the lush greens.

Cassandra Blackwood had never been skilled at golf, but that didn't stop her from dressing the part. Her pristine white golf ensemble and subtle makeup made her look more like Penelope Whitmore's younger sister than her daughter.

The entire purpose of bringing Cassandra was to introduce her to the Harringtons. At twenty-five, she was prime marriage material, and Penelope wasn't about to let her daughter's obsession with Julian Montgomery ruin potential alliances.

"Hello, Mayor Harrington, Mrs. Harrington." Cassandra executed a flawless curtsy, her smile perfectly practiced.

"Oh, this must be your daughter!" Mrs. Harrington beamed. "Even more stunning in person than on television!"

Both Penelope and Cassandra's smiles faltered.

Though Mrs. Harrington meant no harm, the comment unintentionally referenced Cassandra's humiliating public apology—a scandal that still spawned mocking memes across social media.

The mayor cleared his throat sharply, shooting his wife a warning glance.

"Ah—what I meant was," Mrs. Harrington corrected hastily, "your daughter is absolutely radiant. Truly, one of Crestview's most beautiful socialites."

"Thank you, Mrs. Harrington," Penelope replied smoothly, pulling Cassandra closer. "Where is your son today? I heard he and Cassandra attended the same university."

"He's tied up with official duties," Mrs. Harrington said dismissively.

"What a shame. We must arrange another meeting soon." Penelope's tone was honeyed, though her grip on Cassandra's arm tightened.

"Of course, whenever convenient," Mrs. Harrington agreed halfheartedly before abruptly shifting topics. "By the way, I heard you have another daughter. Why didn’t she join?"

Cassandra's smile nearly shattered.

So she doesn’t like me? Fine. But dragging Eleanor into this? Unforgivable.

Penelope maintained her composure. "My youngest is quite frail. She prefers staying home with her medications. Social events overwhelm her."

"Oh dear, what ails her so young? Is it serious?"

"Controllable with treatment," Penelope replied coolly, recognizing the unspoken implication—Mrs. Harrington was already considering Eleanor as a backup option.

As if my daughters are goods on a shelf for you to browse!

Meanwhile, Leonard and Nathan had finished several rounds with the mayor, strolling across the manicured lawn in casual conversation.

"Mayor Harrington, securing the Westridge project wouldn’t have been possible without your support," Leonard said, shaking his hand warmly.

"Nonsense! We’ve collaborated for years. When a prime opportunity arises, you’re my first call." Their decade-long friendship made the mayor unusually amiable.

"Let’s celebrate tonight—drinks on me!"

"Ah, tonight’s my father-in-law’s birthday. Non-negotiable attendance." The mayor chuckled. "Save the revelry for Friday’s contract signing. We’ll toast properly then!"

Nathan listened in silence, his expression unreadable, though pressure coiled in his chest.

He had until Friday.

Time was running out.

Exposing Penelope’s schemes wouldn’t suffice—Leonard would bury any scandal to protect the family name. Nathan needed an explosion too big to conceal.

Just then, a golf cart screeched to a halt before them.