The Flirting Men Time-Space Agency

"This place is so much more comfortable than mine," Elora marveled as she looked around Lucas's office. The space was larger, the sofa more plush—indeed, it was clear that comparisons between them would be utterly futile.

"It's just an office, nothing special. Help yourself to a drink from the breakroom," Lucas replied as he sat down, opening a file before him, not bothering to look up.

"Alright, you carry on. I'll just take a look around!"

Elora wandered over to the floor-to-ceiling windows, her gaze sweeping over the distant horizon. The night was settling in, and the city lights began to flicker on, each glowing neon sign painting the skyline with a kaleidoscope of colors. From here, she could take in the entire nightscape of City A.

The office building's glass facade had turned into a massive screen, and Elora's eyes were drawn to an advertisement for Ridge's Summit Ridge Realty.

"Hey, Lucas, is Summit Ridge Realty recruiting?" Elora asked, her brow furrowing in curiosity as she pointed to the ad.

How come I didn't know about Summit Ridge Realty's recruitment? Elora chuckled inwardly. Well, now's a perfect opportunity to get closer to Lucas.

"Yes, we're planning to develop a new project in the western district," Lucas replied casually.

The mention of the western district triggered a memory for Elora. She recalled that the properties Summit Ridge Realty developed there had been a huge success, making a considerable profit—yet her father had refused to partner with them at that time.

"The western district? Isn't that on the outskirts of the city? Will people even buy there?" Elora asked, intrigued, as she pulled up a chair beside Lucas, her tone that of a willing student eager to learn.

"Yes, it's somewhat desolate now, but in a few years, the area will gradually develop."

"How do you know that, Lucas?" Elora asked, her curiosity piqued.

"Because they're planning to build a subway line there," Lucas explained. He had personally inspected the area, and news of the subway project was about to be made public. He had initially hoped to acquire the land while the area was still undervalued, but Summit Ridge Realty had other ongoing projects in different cities. Taking on the new plot would be somewhat of a stretch, and despite several attempts, they hadn't been able to secure a partner for the venture.

"Lucas, I'm beginning to think you're quite the expert. Ever since Summit Ridge Realty invested in that project, you've never missed a beat. I'm sure you won't fail this time either!" Elora praised him without hesitation.

In her heart, however, she was already formulating a plan of her own.

"Ha, this girl," Lucas said, genuinely pleased by her admiration.

"Lucas, I'm starving! Let's go eat!" Elora whined playfully, tugging at his arm.

"Alright, let's go," Lucas agreed, glancing at the time. It was getting late, and seeing Elora act so much like a pet begging for food somehow softened his heart.

…

Later that evening, as Elora rushed upstairs, she eagerly called out, "Dad! Dad!"

Her mother, hearing the commotion, emerged first. "In such a hurry, little girl? Be careful, don't trip!"

Seeing her mother, Elora quickly straightened up, assuming a ladylike demeanor.

"Your dad's in the study. Be a bit more ladylike," her mother added, her tone softer as she smiled at Elora's sudden change.

"Hehe, no rush!" Elora ran a hand through her hair. "Mom, don't forget to stew the bird's nest for me."

"Already in the kitchen, just go find your dad!" her mother replied, looking slightly exasperated.

Elora giggled and skipped to the study door, knocking lightly before walking in. "Dad, I'm here!" she announced, almost as an afterthought.

"Good grief, what's with the noise? Have you forgotten all your manners?" Elora's father pretended to scold her.

"Hehe, don't be mad, I swear it won't happen again!" Elora raised her hand in mock solemnity.

"What's the matter? What do you need?"

"Dad, did you know Lucas is planning to develop a property in the western district?"

"Yes, he came to talk to me about it. I neither refused nor agreed. Why? Do you want me to help your fiancé?" Elora's father raised an eyebrow, teasing her.

"Dad, we're not even engaged yet! Don't go calling him that!" Elora muttered, her head lowered. "But let's invest! I trust Lucas."

"You're so sure of him?" Her father hesitated. He had planned to study the situation a bit longer, but seeing his daughter's unshakable faith in Lucas, he decided to let it go. Even if things went awry, BluePeak Realty wouldn't be severely affected. "Alright, as long as you're sure."

"Of course, I believe in him! Just promise me you'll invest," Elora pouted, her tone almost demanding.

"Fine, fine, you win!" her father chuckled, his patience giving way.

"I knew you'd come through, Dad! You must be hungry, right? I'll go make you a midnight snack!" Elora grinned and bolted out of the room.

Her father smiled affectionately, watching his daughter's enthusiastic retreat. Has she become more cheerful lately? Maybe she's falling for someone after all! Ah, youth and its boundless energy. Can't fight age, it seems.