I Once Married You (Harper and Benjamin)

Chapter 396 A Lobbyist

Looking at the array of delicious dishes on the table, Annie couldn't help but laugh and say, "Mr. Martin, you're so hospitable, I'm almost not used to it. Are you trying to bribe me?" "There is that thought, but I'm not sure if you'd agree."

Benjamin, ever graceful in his manners, put down his spoon and took a sip of coffee, his gaze gently and indifferently sweeping over Annie.

Somewhat surprised, Annie instinctively turned to Harper beside her. "Aren't you going to ask what he's thinking?"

"He's talking to you, not me," Harper said with a light smile.

Annie furrowed her brows, looking at the enigmatic Benjamin. "What are you thinking? I should say upfront, I won't do anything illegal."

Benjamin smiled faintly, then got back to the point. "The Martin Group has a new project that will officially launch after the competition. I'd like to invite the Jones Group to collaborate with us."

"Are you inviting the Jones Group to partner with you?"

"Yes, I know the Jones Group has only recently entered real estate, primarily focusing on the hotel industry. I need the Jones Group's operational tactics and publicity to bring substantial promotional power to this project. In return, the Jones Group gets to partner with the Martin Group, which is rooted in real estate. It's a win-win situation where both parties get what they want."

Benjamin was clearly not joking anymore, and Harper realized it, too. She turned to Benjamin and asked, "You want Annie to lobby for you?"

"Not a lobbyist. If the Jones Group agrees, you can also be involved in the project's design. I know you own a small but somewhat renowned design studio. Wouldn't you want to increase your fame?"

Annie didn't respond but instinctively looked at Harper.

Their eye contact did not go unnoticed by Benjamin.

However, he didn't think much of it, assuming Annie was seeking Harper's opinion.

After pondering for a moment, Annie said, "I can ask Anderson for you. He's in charge of the Jones Group now. As for anything else, I'd rather not get too involved."

"I see, but I think if you speak up, he'll definitely agree," Benjamin said with a smile.

The profound meaning in his eyes made Annie's gaze slightly dim, her expression tensing unconsciously.

Harper, frowning, subtly changed the subject. She asked, "If this project starts, can I participate?"

"Do you want to join?"

"Of course, You're even bringing the Jones Group into this so that the impact won't be small. I'd like to gain fame and fortune for my company

Vonv

as well."

Benjamin laughed, his tone serious. "You can join, but I can get your company involved by splitting with Frank, okay?" Harper blinked, speechless.

At that moment, there was a knock on the door, which was then pushed open.

"Benjamin, you and Harper came to eat without calling me. Isn't that a bit uncool?"

Larry's voice filled the private room. Upon seeing the people seated at the table, his voice suddenly stopped.

A woman was with him, linking arms with him. She was his fiancée, Julia.

The five people exchanged glances. Aside from Benjamin and Harper, the other three harbored their thoughts.

The atmosphere turned briefly

awkward. Larry said instinctively,

the ahead. I won't disturb

thought it was just the two of you.

guys

you."

Harper nodded slightly, and Benjamin also murmured an agreement.

Then Larry was about to leave.

But Julia held his hand and said softly, "Larry, why don't we join Benjamin and Harper? It's been a while since you and Benjamin caught up, right?"

With Julia's words, the tension thickened again.

Harper's gaze towards Julia was icy, the warning clear in her eyes, but Julia seemed oblivious.