Kirsten now served as the legal counsel for Ninesky.
Seeing Ella walk in behind Danielle, both Gian and Kirsten were slightly surprised.
Kirsten discreetly sized Ella up, then smiled and stood to greet her. "You must be Ella. I've heard a lot about you."
"I'm Kirsten, Ninesky's legal counsel."
"And this is our technical director, Gian," Danielle added with a warm smile, introducing both sides.
Ella exchanged a few pleasantries with them, but her gaze intentionally wandered between Danielle and Gian, secretly guessing the nature of their relationship.
She gathered her thoughts and took the initiative to speak. "Ms. Crawford, I didn't expect you to not only have a booming career but also such great taste in venues."
"The steak and wine here are quite good. I hope it suits your palate," Danielle replied with a faint smile, gesturing for everyone to take a seat.
During the meal, the group discussed matters related to their collaboration. The atmosphere seemed harmonious.
Ella repeatedly offered toasts to Danielle, constantly testing the waters regarding her relationship with Alexander. Danielle smoothly deflected every probing question without batting an eye.
Holding her wine glass, Kirsten gently rubbed the rim with her fingertips. She leaned in close to Gian's ear and lowered her voice. "This Ella looks like trouble."
"I have a feeling her motives for approaching us aren't that simple."
Gian's gaze fell on Ella, his brows furrowing imperceptibly.
He set down his knife and fork, his voice deep. "Indeed."
"The way she looks at Danielle has a competitive edge to it."
"Let's not jump to conclusions just yet. We'll see what she's really after."
Kirsten pursed her lips and said no more.
As the meal drew to a close, Ella put down her silverware, dabbed at her mouth, and suddenly suggested, "Ms. Crawford, I see the equestrian track right outside. Why don't we go stretch our legs?"
"I've heard that horseback riding is a great way to test a person's courage and demeanor."
As soon as the words left her mouth, her gaze locked onto Danielle, carrying a trace of subtle provocation.
In Ella's eyes, a woman like Danielle who did scientific research was likely just a weak, bookish nerd.
She spent her days buried in labs or piles of documents. How could she possibly handle a sport that required strength and skill like horseback riding?
Ella just wanted to use this opportunity to make Danielle look like a fool in front of everyone and take her down a peg.
Gian and Kirsten exchanged a look, both seeing right through Ella's intentions.
Kirsten was just about to speak up to bail Danielle out, but Danielle stopped her with a subtle look.
In truth, she was actually doing Ella a favor.
After all, Danielle's equestrian skills were practically professional.
Danielle placed her napkin down, stood up gracefully, and looked at Ella with a calm expression. A faint smile curved her lips. "Sure."
"It's been a while since I've ridden anyway. I'd be happy to go a few rounds with you today, Ella."
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