Unmasking Mrs. Newton's Secret Identities novel Chapter 1019

Otto raised an eyebrow and smiled. "Since Mr. Murray is deferring to you, there's no point in me continuing the match. Let's go—I'd be glad to join you for some fine tea."

As they were about to leave, an elderly man in a tailcoat with gray hair approached respectfully. "Ms. Spencer, may I have the honor of joining you for tea and conversation as well?"

Helen quickly recognized him—the man was Reuben Klein, the CEO of Klein International.

Noticing Helen's silence, Benedict interjected, "Reuben is an old friend and an accomplished chess player himself. Reuben, you should join us. Let's have Ms. Spencer give us a few pointers."

Reuben was thrilled by the invitation and eagerly followed Benedict, walking alongside him.

Otto gave Helen a discreet, knowing look, indicating that their goal was nearly within reach and it was time to celebrate prematurely.

Helen couldn't help but smile faintly in return, revealing a touch of goodwill.

…

Benedict had two great passions—chess and tea. Naturally, the tea he served to his esteemed guests was of the highest quality.

Helen met Benedict's confident, expectant gaze as she slowly sipped from her cup.

As she set it down, a satisfied smile spread across her face. "This tea is remarkable—smooth and subtly sweet, with a lasting fragrance. It's undeniably a top-tier brew."

Benedict gave a slight nod. "If you say it's excellent, then it certainly is. By the way, when did you return to the country? Why haven't you come by to challenge me to a game of chess?"

Helen appeared momentarily lost in thought, her expression betraying a hint of surprise.

After a moment, she collected herself and smiled, saying, "Being originally from Grand Cathay, it doesn't seem right for me to stay abroad indefinitely. It's not that I didn't want to visit—it's just that you've been so elusive that finding you has been nearly impossible."

Considering Helen was Benedict's mentor, Reuben couldn't turn her down. "Of course!" he replied.

But with his no-nonsense attitude, he couldn't help but suspect that Helen might have an ulterior motive for wanting to speak with him.

After sitting down, Reuben got straight to the point. "Ms. Spencer, if there's something you'd like to discuss, please feel free to be candid. I trust your character, as I believe that one's chess skills often reflect personal integrity.

"I'll be completely open with you as well, and I'd be interested in becoming friends and possibly discussing chess in the future."

"That's perfectly fine," Helen replied without hesitation.

After exchanging a glance with Helen, Otto took the lead and said, "Mr. Klein, we're interested in knowing who discovered the rare-colored emerald in your collection."

A flicker of surprise crossed Reuben's face, and he quickly looked away. "The emerald now belongs to me. Why are you asking about its origin?"