The CEO's Hidden Love: Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires novel Chapter 273

Upon seeing the perplexed look on Dorothy's face, Austin gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Don't overthink it." He said. "My best guess is that the local authorities are just worried about their new development project being affected. This resort is a big deal for Everglow City. If the project's compromised because the villagers attacked the project manager, they wouldn't be too happy."

Dorothy nodded, feeling somewhat relieved. "You might be right. You and Lane shouldn't get involved. These villagers are probably just trying to squeeze out a little extra cash. It's human nature. We wouldn't want to escalate the situation and jeopardize the project."

"You and your projects." Austin chuckled. "No wonder you've climbed so high so fast. In all my years in business, I've seen plenty of women who've used all sorts of tricks to get ahead. But not you, Dorothy. You've gotten where you are on your own merit."

Others might not know it, but Austin did. With Lane's affection for Dorothy, she could have any position she wanted. All she'd have to do is ask.

Dorothy smiled. "Save those compliments for me. If you said them in front of other women, it might cause some controversy."

"Pfft!" Austin scoffed. "I'm just telling it like it is."

She chuckled and headed deeper into the construction site.

The resort project was a complex one. It had many different components that she had to oversee. From securing bids for food and beverage services to negotiating contracts for accommodations and entertainment facilities, Dorothy was in charge of it all, so she had a lot on her plate. But she had willingly taken on these tasks in the hope of earning a larger share of the project's profits.

"Ms. Sanchez, here are the preliminary designs for some of the leisure facilities." The project manager handed her a folder.

Dorothy scanned the blueprints, causing her brow to furrow. "Try to limit the number of these extreme rides. Our guests are going to be people of a certain status. Do you really think they're going to want to go on a giant roller coaster?"

"But people love the thrill!"

"Did you hear that Ms. Sanchez is married with kids? But no one's ever seen her husband. I bet she's a mistress. That's why her husband never shows up."

"I've heard that too. Every time there's a company event that allows plus ones, she never brings him. But honestly, if I looked like her, I'd take shortcuts too. There's no way she got to where she is without playing dirty."

Dorothy washed her hands with an impassive look on her face. She walked over to the bathroom stall and knocked.

"Who is it? This stall's occupied."

"Dorothy."