I'm The King of Business & Technology in the Modern World-Chapter 157: Gentle Refusal

Matthew's eyebrows lifted slightly in mild surprise at Terence's sudden, personal question. The atmosphere between them shifted subtly, the conversation now bordering on informality. Yet Matthew kept his composure, his expression polite and professional.

He gave Terence a slight smile, nodding once. "No, not at the moment. I've been quite focused on business lately. Not much time left for personal relationships."

Terence chuckled gently, clearly undeterred by Matthew's careful deflection. "Well, a man in your position should always have someone by his side—someone reliable and supportive. Trust me, it helps when things get tough."

Matthew laughed softly, appreciating Terence's subtle attempt at mentorship. "I understand completely, Terence. But finding the right person isn't always straightforward."

"Indeed," Terence agreed warmly, nodding with a knowing smile. "But since we're on the topic, perhaps I can help."

Matthew raised an eyebrow, unsure exactly where this conversation was headed but maintaining his diplomatic demeanor. "Oh? And how is that?"

Terence leaned closer, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "There's someone I'd like to introduce you to. Her family is close to ours, influential and respected. She's here tonight, actually. Beautiful, intelligent—perfect for someone like you."

Matthew held back a sigh, careful to keep his reaction politely neutral. Terence's intentions were likely well-meaning, but Matthew wasn't eager to complicate his already demanding life with matchmaking.

"That's generous of you, Terence," he responded gently, careful not to offend his host. "But I'm not sure it's the right moment."

Terence, however, waved away Matthew's hesitations lightly, his voice still warmly insistent. "Nonsense, Matthew. At least meet her. She's already expressed some curiosity about you."

Matthew allowed himself a polite smile, recognizing the challenge of gracefully declining. He had navigated corporate takeovers and international negotiations, yet he still found social diplomacy like this surprisingly tricky.

Terence glanced across the spacious room, eyes searching briefly before landing on a young woman engaged in polite conversation with other influential guests. She was striking, graceful, with an air of confidence clearly suited to this exclusive gathering.

"Her name is Isabella Santos," Terence said, a hint of pride in his voice. "Daughter of the Santos family, significant stakeholders in major banks and real estate firms here. A genuinely remarkable young woman."

Matthew glanced briefly at Isabella, acknowledging her presence and elegance. Indeed, she appeared poised and confident, effortlessly fitting in among the elite. But he had no intention of being drawn into unnecessary complications—his life was complex enough already.

"She certainly seems impressive," Matthew admitted honestly, nodding politely. "But really, Terence, I must insist—"

Before Matthew could complete his gentle refusal, Terence raised a friendly hand to wave her over. Isabella noticed immediately, gracefully excusing herself from her companions and crossing the room with a smooth, practiced elegance.

Matthew suppressed a quiet sigh, internally amused despite himself. Terence clearly wouldn't relent easily, and now social etiquette compelled him to at least meet Isabella. He prepared himself, composing a polite greeting in his mind.

As Isabella approached, Terence greeted her warmly, clearly pleased to introduce them. "Isabella, I'd like you to meet Matthew Borja—one of our key partners and an exceptionally talented entrepreneur."

Isabella smiled genuinely, extending her hand elegantly toward Matthew. Her voice was soft, yet carried confidence clearly honed by a lifetime among influential circles. "Mr. Borja, it's truly a pleasure. Your reputation precedes you."

Matthew shook her hand gently, maintaining professional courtesy. "Likewise, Ms. Santos. Terence speaks very highly of you."

"Please, just Isabella," she insisted warmly, eyes sparkling slightly with a mix of curiosity and charm. "I've heard quite a bit about your projects, especially your Titan program. It must be thrilling to pioneer such innovative technologies."

Matthew acknowledged her comment politely, maintaining a comfortable distance in his demeanor. "It's certainly rewarding work. But I'm sure your own endeavors are equally interesting."

Isabella smiled softly, obviously flattered by the acknowledgment but modestly redirecting the conversation back toward Matthew. "Nothing quite as groundbreaking as yours, I'm afraid."

Terence cleared his throat gently, his smile encouraging as he gestured casually toward Isabella. "Matthew, Isabella studied abroad, highly educated, fluent in multiple languages. She's quite involved in philanthropy as well—particularly youth education programs. Truly an impressive individual."

Matthew smiled diplomatically, acknowledging Terence's enthusiastic endorsement while subtly maintaining his cautious stance. "That's truly commendable. Education and philanthropy are incredibly important."

Isabella laughed softly, genuinely appreciative. "Thank you, Matthew. Perhaps sometime we can discuss possible collaborations in that area—education programs or charitable initiatives?"

Matthew inclined his head politely, skillfully managing his response. "Certainly, Isabella. I'm always open to meaningful projects. Perhaps we can arrange something professionally in the future."

Terence, sensing Matthew's careful boundary-setting, intervened lightly, still encouraging but respectful of Matthew's hesitation. "Come now, Matthew. Surely you can spare a bit more enthusiasm. A remarkable woman like Isabella deserves a bit more than professional courtesy."

Matthew chuckled lightly, maintaining his composure with practiced ease. "I apologize if I appear overly cautious, Terence. It's just that my schedule rarely allows room for personal relationships at the moment."

Isabella, perceptive and graceful, intervened gently, clearly sensing Matthew's polite reluctance. "It's perfectly understandable, Matthew. Someone in your position naturally has many demands on your time. I'd welcome any discussion, professional or otherwise, whenever it suits your schedule."

Matthew smiled gratefully at her diplomatic rescue, genuinely impressed by her grace. "Thank you for understanding, Isabella. Your kindness is greatly appreciated."

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Terence sighed lightly in mock disappointment, clearly amused yet understanding. "Ah, very well, Matthew. I'll leave you alone for now. But you must promise me you'll at least keep an open mind."

Matthew chuckled warmly, relieved that Terence finally understood. "I promise, Terence."

Isabella smiled gently once more, her demeanor understanding and respectful. "It was genuinely nice meeting you, Matthew. Perhaps we can still speak professionally sometime soon?"

"Absolutely," Matthew assured sincerely, appreciating her genuine politeness. "I look forward to it."

Isabella gracefully excused herself, returning to the socializing crowd, leaving Matthew and Terence briefly alone again.

Terence watched her depart thoughtfully, glancing back at Matthew with a slightly amused expression. "You're a difficult man to please, Matthew. But I respect your caution."

Matthew smiled calmly, sipping from the glass Angel had discreetly placed in his hand moments earlier. "Relationships, like business, require careful consideration. She truly seems wonderful, Terence, but my circumstances are complicated enough right now."

Terence chuckled knowingly, nodding with gentle understanding. "Fair enough. But remember, you can't remain single forever. Eventually, someone worthy enough might actually slip past those defenses."

Matthew laughed softly, his expression light yet subtly serious. "Perhaps you're right. Until then, I'll remain cautious."

Terence patted Matthew's shoulder warmly, clearly respecting his stance. "Very well. But don't say I didn't try."

Matthew smiled graciously. "Your efforts are appreciated, Terence."

As Terence moved away to mingle again, Matthew quietly exhaled, appreciating the subtle return of solitude. Angel approached quietly, holding her tablet and glancing briefly toward Isabella's departing figure.

"Everything alright, sir?" Angel asked softly, clearly aware of the conversation's delicate nature.

Matthew nodded gently, voice calm and reflective. "Yes, Angel. Just managing another layer of social diplomacy."

Angel smiled slightly, professional yet subtly amused. "Handled expertly as always, sir."

Matthew chuckled softly, appreciating her unwavering support. "Thank you, Angel. Now, let's return to business."

"Of course, sir," Angel replied warmly.

Together, they smoothly rejoined the gathering, seamlessly blending back into the powerful, influential circles Matthew now comfortably inhabited.