I responded with a distant smile, acknowledging that his sources were well-informed.Without delving into the specifics of how he knew about my success in Bourdamun, I casually said, "The decision to hold on or let go depends on what aligns with your own interests. I always choose a path that better suits my personal development."Matthew seemed somewhat disgruntled at my response. "It looks like you still have reservations about me, Chlo."I asked, "What do you mean?"I understood what he was implying. He had been unsettled by my smooth journey. He chuckled awkwardly. “I don’t think I could have endured being overshadowed by a woman if you were as helpful as you are now during our time together. Sometimes, I really don’t understand how everything happened the way it did. We were a good match, and you’re still important to me. When we were building the company together back then…”"Let's remain focused on the matter at hand, Matthew," I interrupted, avoiding any reminiscing abou
Matthew's expression grew somber, revealing a mix of bitterness and deep-seated resentment.“We’re dealing with Liora here. Attempting to outmaneuver her, especially after she proposed withdrawing funds, will definitely be an uphill battle. Do you really believe there's any chance of success?" I bombarded Matthew with questions, strategically hitting his vulnerabilities to make him feel the weight of the situation.I also delved into his past ruthless tactics to secure Avalon Hills and the substantial financial investments he had made. "Have you ever thought about why Liora suggested withdrawing funds?" I questioned, adding another layer to his dilemma.My analysis of Liora's motives was rooted in Atticus’s speculations. He had lived with Liora for over a decade, and now he wanted to kick her out of his sphere of interests. That alone spoke volumes about Liora's strategic prowess.I looked at Matthew and continued, "She clearly intends to leverage Avalon Hills to negotiate with you
I was about to refute him when he interrupted me again."A project as large as the Bourdamun development landing in your hands, Chloe... Do you really believe it’s not because of the Beringer family's influence? You're just lucky, that's all!""Why do I have to ask you to help smooth things over? Isn't that a bit too much?" He gave me the impression that I was obligated to charge into battle for him.I angrily cut him off. "Put away your petty mindset! I was able to be in charge of Bourdamun because of my capabilities. “I worked hard to build my qualifications. It’s also because of my sincerity and perseverance in collaborating with ATL Empire to further Tanum's reputation. It's based on my hands-on approach, good quality, and reputation. No shortcuts… I despise those vile methods.”That was when I realized that Matthew hated this standing the most. It was unlike him, who cut corners and had an extremely poor reputation."That is enough!" He said, “Don’t act all righteous. Could
I was seething, and our exchange was nothing short of a verbal sparring match."You should know better than anyone that it's never too late to mend fences. Don't dwell on irrelevant things," I countered sharply."I conduct myself with transparency. Please don’t judge my integrity based on your small-mindedness. It was my work, not some personal connection, that got the project in Bourdamun. Don’t try your tricks on me!"The only way to defeat Liora is through your own actions. Use your brain. Why do you think she is withdrawing funds now? She clearly believes she has secured Avalon Hills, and she’s trying to capitalize on this opportunity to take over Ardora.”Both of us were aware of the unspoken truth, but we were avoiding the issue. If I were to gloss over it, he wouldn't realize his mistakes."Matthew, your current situation is entirely your fault. How could the wolf have entered the house if you had pursued development without colluding with the Thompson family?"Matthew cou
It was understandable for two rival companies, especially fierce competitors like us, to be cautious. So, I approached the topic differently. "You don't have to give me the details. I'm just using it as an example. You shouldn’t be concerned if you’re in charge of these projects, have signed contracts, and have the power to negotiate and oversee construction. Stand tall, use it as leverage, and negotiate with her."As I continued eating, I offered Matthew advice and suggestions.Matthew finally disclosed a few unfavorable aspects, and I pondered, providing him with guidance and a well-thought-out plan.Matthew's face lit up, smiling and feeling somewhat triumphant. I glanced disdainfully at him, set down my utensils, and reached for a few napkins to dab at the corners of my mouth."Now, it's up to you on how to proceed. You must establish a solid foundation with the subcontractors. That's crucial. If the partners don't turn against you, you've won," I explained clearly. This wa
Melanie's behavior felt all too familiar to me.She wasn't having it when she saw I was about to leave. Stubborn was her middle name.She grabbed my arm and swung me back, causing me to collide with Matthew. Instinctively, he reached out and steadied me.Melanie was even more relentless. "Chloe, what's your deal? You think you can just run when I show up? Have you no shame?""Yeah, I lost my shame a long time ago. Is it a problem if I walk away? Isn't it convenient for you? Since you showed up, I must leave. If you have an issue, take it up with him. You can take my place."I tried to leave, exhausted and with a pounding headache. My thoughts were blurry. I just wanted to find a comfortable place to lie down.However, Melanie grabbed onto me even tighter upon seeing my state.Even Matthew thought Melanie was going too far. He sternly reprimanded her, "Melanie, have some sense. I'm discussing serious matters with Chloe.""What serious matters require a trip to a club alone? Tryi
I slept through the night until early the next morning. If my growling stomach hadn't woken me up, I might have kept sleeping.I searched for my phone everywhere but couldn't find it. I gave up, figuring they must have taken it away after I fell asleep to avoid disturbing me.Hunger finally drove me to get up after lazing around, staring at the ceiling with heavy eyes. I quickly washed up and went downstairs for breakfast.Grace discreetly approached me, asking in a hushed tone, "Why did she hit you?""Don't worry about it. She just loses it every time she sees me talking to your son," I said casually. I didn't want her to be concerned."Then just ignore her. That cursed woman will get her comeuppance eventually. Her heart is wicked, and God will deal with her! My son is unfortunate to have her!" I shook my head repeatedly and staggered into the kitchen. While eating, I thought about yesterday's events. There was a limit to what one could endure.Melanie's slap gave me a new pe
Coincidentally, Ryan had also arrived. I briefly explained my thoughts to him, and after some contemplation, he responded, "No problem. But we need to provide a reasonable justification since we voluntarily withdrew from the competition before."Ryan always adhered to his principles. Every action required a valid reason.After some thinking, I told him, "If necessary, I'll find a way to change the dynamics, reshuffle the project team, and ask Atticus to withdraw his connections through legitimate channels so we can compete fairly."I presented my well-founded reasons and plans to Ryan. To me, this was the safest strategy.After communicating with Joyce, Ryan adopted my approach.I immediately arranged a secret meeting with Atticus, and after some negotiation, we reached an agreement. He would find a way to overturn the current contract for Phase Two of Avalon Hills, reshuffle the team, and create a new arrangement.Meanwhile, Grayson prepared for Muborough. We would expose it onc