Chapter 75

Shanice's enthusiasm was overwhelming. I smiled and shook my head. "No, after leaving Smith Group, I want to take some time to relax. I want to experience life on my own terms, without anyone's interference." I didn't want to jump out of one fire pit only to fall into another. Though Shanice's attitude toward me had shifted dramatically—from disdain to curiosity and now to persistent pursuit—all within a short time frame, I knew I couldn't let another woman dictate the next phase of my life. "What do you mean by relax?" Shanice seemed unwilling to accept my response. She looked at me and said, "You're a grown man, and men should focus on their careers." Her relentless pursuit made me laugh unexpectedly. Shanice looked at me in surprise. "What's so funny? I'm trying to discuss something serious with you. As a man, how can one not have a sense of ambition?" I nodded, acknowledging her point. "You're right. A man should have ambition. That's why I plan to start my own company." Sha