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Chapter 43 Let’s Be Friends

Author: Shay Robinson
last update Last Updated: 2025-09-15 09:49:18

Jalen’s POV

Sunday 10:45 am

As I pull up to the university ballroom, I see cars lined up, people stepping out in pressed suits and polished dresses, with bags tucked neatly at their sides. The kind of crowd that thrives off shaking hands and flashing smiles while quietly sizing each other up.

Caanan eases the car to a stop. I thank him, tell him I’ll call when this is over, and remind him about the flight. My pilot already confirmed that the plane will be ready to leave at five. That gives me just enough time to handle what I came here for.

Inside, the welcome desk is unmanned but neatly arranged, materials stacked high, a wide glass bowl waiting for business cards. I slide one of mine in and grab a souvenir bag like everyone else did, and start stuffing it with brochures. But one catches my eye,

Bright Initiative Group, Inc.

I paused. My chest tightens. Who the hell here works with them?

That’s not just any company. That’s my leverage into them working with us. That’s the access I n
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