Chapter 106: Suddenly Noble

“The state office called me just now. They want more detailed information as soon as possible…”

President Elena’s expression turned serious. Less than twenty-four hours had passed since the incident, and not only had the state office already caught wind of it, they seemed extremely concerned.

Clearly, they weren’t trying to commend the Sabin Women’s Rights Protection Association for its outstanding contributions—they were trying to steal the credit for themselves.

Job opportunities were far too important. Financial independence and freedom were the foundation of true independence for women, and that had been proven time and again.

A woman who couldn’t achieve financial freedom would find it hard to break away from the central role men played in her life. She would remain dependent, unless she could prove she didn’t need a man to live well—starting with her material needs.

That was what they talked about every day: pushing society to offer more job opportunities for women. But this wasn’t something that could happen overnight.

Most of the major jobs required physical labor that women couldn’t do. There simply weren’t many roles they could fill.

With the current economic downturn and high unemployment, the situation was even more difficult for women in the workforce.

At a time like this, the sudden emergence of hundreds or even thousands of jobs specifically for women was headline news—enough to shake up the entire structure of the state’s women’s rights association. No wonder the state office was panicking and desperate to know more.

“I didn’t agree to anything with them…” Elena said as she stood by the window, gazing down at the women of all ages gathering outside. A faint smile crossed her lips. “This is our victory.”

With all these people and the job opportunities Lynch had mentioned—possibly in the thousands—and now with the state office suddenly on edge, Elena began to realize she might have a real shot at advancing further.

Although the Women’s Rights Protection Association wasn’t an official organization, it still held significant power and influence. Many socialites, dignitaries’ wives, and elite women were members, showing just how much political clout it had.

It might not be official, but there wasn’t much difference anymore.

Going from president of a second-tier city chapter to an important post at the state office—and possibly even to the national headquarters—meant a whole new future.

She wasn’t going to let that chance slip away.

She looked at her watch. It was nearly ten. Right after her call with the state office, she’d immediately called Lynch, hoping to meet in person.

She wanted to clear up the small misunderstanding between them—and more importantly, draw him into her camp, or at least make sure he didn’t get stolen away by a few words from those snakes in the state office.

Everyone needed supporters, and so did she.

“We should—”

Just as she was rallying the others, the door knocked. A young woman peeked in with a flushed face. “Mr. Lynch has arrived…”

Elena was momentarily surprised—she hadn’t even seen Lynch’s car. How had he gotten here? But she quickly dropped the thought. Meeting Lynch was more important than wondering how he arrived.

“Let… no, please let him in!” She quickly straightened her clothes and moved behind the desk. The other women also stood.

About twenty seconds later, Lynch entered the room. It was undeniable—a handsome young man could instantly win a room full of women over.

Especially Elena. Her expression wasn’t just professional; there was genuine delight, like an elder seeing a promising young person.

Lynch’s looks were disarming, but what was even more striking was that he didn’t try to prove that his abilities surpassed his appearance, unlike many young men who were desperate to be taken seriously.

Some people foolishly dismissed their looks as irrelevant, not realizing appearance was part of what made them exceptional.

Lynch had no such delusions. Decades of experience had taught him one thing—anything that gave him an advantage was a good thing.

Whether it was charm or good looks, if it helped him gain more, he’d embrace it without hesitation.

He had even changed his appearance slightly for today’s meeting, making himself look younger and more approachable.

“This is the president of the local Women’s Rights Protection Association, Ms. Elena…” the lawyer Connor introduced. After greeting the others, Lynch stepped forward.

He smiled warmly, offering a handshake to Elena. His smile was clean, pure—even innocent. Not at all what people imagined a capitalist would look like.

Capitalists rarely had smiles that genuine. Theirs were always ugly, corrupt.

“You have such a kind presence,” Lynch said, then added, “You remind me of some of my elders…”

His expression briefly turned sentimental, but he quickly wiped it away. “Sorry, Ms. Elena, I was lost in thought.”

Elena wasn’t the least bit bothered by his moment of reflection. She smiled warmly. “It’s good to carry your elders in your heart. It shows you’re a good boy…”

Then she caught herself. “My child is about your age—I shouldn’t call you a boy.”

She meant that Lynch wasn’t just a kid; he was a valuable resource and a businessman.

But Lynch didn’t seem offended at all. Still holding her hand, he said with a smile, “It’s true—I can do many things well, but I can never catch up in age. Calling me a boy is something your experience have earned you, Ms. Elena.”

“What a little gentleman…” Elena beamed, letting go of his hand and inviting him to sit.

“I invited you here today mainly to resolve the little misunderstanding between us yesterday.”

Lynch gently raised his hand, cutting her off. If a grown man—especially one less attractive—had done this, it might have come across as condescending.

But a charming, youthful gentleman like Lynch? Elena wasn’t offended at all. In fact, she smiled, curious to hear what he had to say.

Lynch first apologized for the interruption and was readily forgiven. Then, still smiling, he said, “If it was a misunderstanding, let’s leave it behind. Let’s not let it occupy our hearts or cloud our emotions. Let’s talk about real business.”

“How wise…”

The women in the room stared, astonished—as if seeing their president for the first time—at the easy rapport between her and the young Lynch, chatting and laughing across the desk like old friends.