Chapter 396: Clara Whitmore Nodded Gently

Clara Whitmore nodded gently. "I'll think of something too."

Maya Torres blinked her large eyes. "What should I do then?"

"Chief Financial Officer," Clara said decisively.

That afternoon, transfers from Clara and Noah Kessler arrived one after another.

Maya stared at the $840,000 now in her mobile banking app, unable to suppress the smile tugging at her lips.

Humming a tune, she popped a chocolate cookie into her mouth.

Though her family had never lacked money, earning it herself felt entirely different.

This must be the money-loving gene inherited from her father.

* * *

Blue light flickered across Clara's computer screen.

Her research revealed that CPRT's domestic distributor was a startup called Solstice Technologies.

Equity records showed the majority shareholder was someone named Nolan Yang.

Digging deeper through the complex corporate structure, a familiar name suddenly appeared.

"Mason Reed?"

The call connected instantly.

"Clara!" Mason's voice brimmed with energy.

"How have you been?" Clara asked.

"Don't ask. Broke my leg skiing last week—stuck in the hospital now."

Clara frowned. "That serious?"

"The boredom's worse! You know I can't sit still."

"Focus on healing properly," Clara said with exasperation.

"Got it!" Mason chuckled. "You need something?"

Clara cut to the chase.

"CPRT?" Mason sounded baffled. "Only CPR I know is first aid..."

"It's a biometric device," Clara explained.

"Solstice Technologies..." Mason mused. "Think my fund invested in that."

"But I just followed Julian Cross's lead on the deal."

"He took a major stake—he'd know more."

"Thanks. Rest well."

"Since when so formal?" Mason laughed heartily.

After hanging up, Clara immediately dialed Julian's number.

"Mr. Cross."

A teasing voice answered: "So cold, Evie~"

Clara nearly dropped her phone.

"Professional distance is best," she said through gritted teeth.

"Now, now," Julian drawled, "I'm currently dating your best friend."

The complicated relationship made Clara's temples throb.

"I have a business question," she cut in.

After hearing her out, Julian fell uncharacteristically silent.

"Solstice Technologies?"

"Correct."

"Need their CEO?"

"Yes."

Julian chuckled darkly. "Then you should be calling Connor Hayes."