Claire nodded, the frown etched between her brows revealing her unease.
From the corridor outside, Lady Wilson’s deliberate footsteps echoed, accompanied by the rhythmic tap of her cane on the floor. Following closely behind were Christopher, Harold, and Wendy.
Recently released from jail thanks to Lady Wilson’s intervention, Harold was brimming with bitterness and directed a fierce glare at Charlie.
Charlie, however, remained unfazed by Harold’s hostility.
It was the day of his wife’s office opening, and Charlie was determined to avoid any altercations with these troublemakers. As long as they behaved, he had no intention of engaging with them.
Wendy stepped forward, a smirk on her face. “Claire, you didn’t even bother to greet grandma. When did you become so inconsiderate?”
Claire shot back flatly, “I was expelled from the Wilson family, so we’re no longer related!”
“How dare you!” Lady Wilson slammed her cane against the floor, fury evident in her voice. “You are a Wilson by blood, and that can never change. You were born into this family, and when you pass, you will remain part of us!”
Charlie interjected with a hint of sarcasm, “A bit hypocritical, don’t you think? When you kicked her out, you claimed she was no longer family, yet now you’re saying she is, in life and in death? That’s quite the contradiction!”
Harold clenched his teeth and spat, “Shut up, loser! Your opinion doesn’t matter here!”
Charlie met his glare with one of his own. “Haven’t you had enough of a beating recently? Want me to help you out with that?”
Harold recoiled, instinctively shrinking back like a turtle, opting to step aside instead. He had learned his lesson the hard way when he attempted to assert dominance over the villa; facing Charlie was not a fight he could win, no matter how many allies he had. Silence was his best bet.
Claire pressed her lips together, turning her attention back to Lady Wilson. “I’m sorry, but you’re not welcome at my opening ceremony today. Please leave.”
“Opening ceremony?” Lady Wilson scoffed, her disdain palpable. “Claire, do you really believe anyone would come to a tiny studio like this?”
Christopher added with a mocking laugh, “I heard you even sent an invitation to the Emgrand Group. Did you really think they’d take you seriously with your little office?”
“Exactly,” Lady Wilson chimed in. “Claire, we’re family, and it’s crucial to stick together. You are my granddaughter, carrying my blood. How long do you plan on opposing me?”
She continued her relentless persuasion. “Look at you, working alone in this rundown office without any funds or backing. Why don’t you return to the Wilson Group? I’ll reinstate you as director, just like before. You can work for me as you always have. I’ll even grant you shares and make you my successor. What do you think?”
The Wilson family was struggling at the moment.
They had lost their partnership with the Emgrand Group, who had blacklisted them, and to make matters worse, the White family had broken off their engagement with Wendy. Harold was of no help either.
Lady Wilson’s only hope rested on persuading Claire to return, hoping it would turn their fortunes around.
Perhaps with Claire’s involvement, they could win back the Emgrand Group’s contract! If that happened, other companies might follow suit, bringing in new projects and reviving their fortunes in no time.
To Lady Wilson’s surprise, Claire simply shook her head and replied calmly, “Thanks, but no thanks. I’m not interested; I want to pave my own path.”
Christopher sneered. “Claire, I suggest you come to terms with reality. Don’t you see how empty your office is during your opening ceremony? Did anyone come to offer their congratulations? Do you genuinely believe you can succeed? I bet you’ll be bankrupt before you even get started!”
Charlie’s expression reflected open disdain. “That’s none of your concern! I can bring the prominent figures of Aurous Hill to celebrate Claire’s achievements anytime I wish!”
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