Chapter 292
Geoffrey Lockhart, CEO of Summit Corporation, had been standing at the hotel entrance since noon, eagerly awaiting their arrival.
The moment Evelyn Carter stepped out, he bowed respectfully. "Ms. Carter, I'm Geoffrey Lockhart, president of Summit Corporation. This is my card."
"Welcome to Dunhill, and thank you for choosing our company."
Evelyn gave a slight nod as she accepted the embossed golden business card.
The name "Geoffrey" shimmered under the afternoon sun.
Her lips curved into a polite smile. "Mr. Lockhart, your reputation precedes you."
"You flatter me, Ms. Carter." Geoffrey gestured toward the waiting limousine. "Shall we?"
"After you, Ms. Carter and Mr. Whitmore!"
Evelyn slid into the plush leather seat beside Harrison Whitmore.
During the scenic drive, Geoffrey played the perfect host, pointing out landmarks and local specialties until the mining complex came into view.
"Ms. Carter," Geoffrey began hesitantly, "though Dunhill may seem unremarkable, our mining, agriculture, and farming industries are quite advanced. Today we'll tour the mines first, then visit our flagship farm tomorrow."
"Thank you for the thoughtful arrangement, Mr. Lockhart." Evelyn exited the vehicle with Harrison.
The landscape stretched before them - barren except for towering mineral deposits dotting the horizon.
Miners moved with practiced efficiency, some descending into the earth's depths for their shifts.
Geoffrey handed Evelyn a safety helmet. "Caution is paramount underground, Ms. Carter."
He passed another helmet to Harrison.
"Shall we begin with the primary shaft?"
Geoffrey led them through winding tunnels, enthusiastically explaining each mine's operations.
Evelyn witnessed firsthand the miners' grueling labor - especially the coal workers emerging from below.
Their faces were blackened with soot, only their eyes visible as they hauled heavy baskets up steep mine stairs.
"What's their typical shift length?" Evelyn inquired.
Geoffrey answered promptly, "Our frontline workers endure twelve-hour shifts minimum. The pay reflects their hardship though."
His expression turned solemn. "Underground work carries substantial risks. Most miners are single men willing to gamble their safety for higher wages."
The harsh realities of their lives weighed heavily in the air.
Evelyn's heart ached with newfound understanding.
"There's a lounge ahead where we can rest and enjoy some local tea."
Evelyn remained quiet, lost in thought.
Harrison's arm slipped around her shoulders. "What troubles you, love?"
She blinked, returning to the present. "It's nothing. I just... never realized how brutally difficult their lives are."
Harrison squeezed her gently. "Society functions through different roles, darling. Don't burden yourself."
"I know, Harrison." She managed a small smile.
"Come, let's take that break." Harrison guided her toward the miners' lounge.
Geoffrey personally prepared their tea using leaves famous throughout the region.
The fragrant brew left a pleasantly sweet aftertaste.
Setting down her cup, Evelyn whispered to Harrison, "Excuse me, I need the ladies' room."
Here's the rewritten version with all the requested changes: