Chapter 167
Two days later, the Hummers held the official press conference for the launch of Eternumax at the Hillview Hotel. News of the launch had spread for several days, and the Hummers' ceaseless promotional efforts had generated considerable discussion. Such an amazing drug, with beautifying properties and the potential to improve longevity, drew countless people's attention.
The lavishly decorated press conference bustled with activity, a never-ending stream of guests arriving.
Around noon, a silver Bentley pulled up at the Hillview Hotel entrance. When the car door opened, Natasha slowly emerged, arm in arm with Dustin. As always, she commanded attention wherever she went. Her shapely figure and alluring face captivated everyone.
Dustin, impeccably dressed in a three-piece suit, looked handsome and suave, carrying himself with great poise.
"Natasha, why are you here?" Quentin and Mr. Wangley spotted them and approached.
"If you can be here, so can I," Natasha replied nonchalantly.
"We're here because we received an invitation from Sir Hummer. Did you receive one too?" Quentin asked with a faint, sardonic smile. He knew Edwin would never have invited Natasha.
"I'm not here for Edwin's press conference, so naturally, I don't need an invitation," Natasha shrugged.
"If you're not here for the press conference, then why are you here?" Quentin didn't understand.
"Oh, it totally slipped my mind to mention I'm also holding a press conference for a new drug launch today. Same day and location as Edwin Hummer's, but his is on Basement Level 3, while mine's on the third floor. I've made sure to steer clear of him," Natasha dropped the bombshell.
"What? You're having a press conference too?" Quentin was startled. He'd sent men to watch Natasha for the past few days, and they'd reported no activity. Why was she suddenly holding a press conference? And at the same date and location as Edwin's! Was that not blatant provocation?
"Natasha Harmon! What exactly are you up to? You have nothing to your name, so where on earth do you get the courage to challenge Edwin Hummer?" Quentin was shocked and suspicious.
"This isn't something you should worry about, Quentin. If you've got time to spare, you should consider yourself," Natasha said casually.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Quentin frowned.
"I heard that you've purchased Eternumax in bulk and plan to resell it at a higher price to make a quick profit?" Natasha asked.
"So what if I have? You can't forbid me from making money just because you refuse to!" Quentin argued.
"Just because we're from the same family, I'd advise you to do yourself a favor and sell off that Eternumax at a low price before the press conference starts. If you don't, you'll lose everything before you even know it!" Natasha smiled knowingly.
"Utter nonsense! Eternumax is selling like hotcakes right now! Many people are willing to pay good money for it and can't get their hands on it! I think that's just your jealousy talking!" Quentin scoffed.
"It's up to you to heed my advice," Natasha said, uninterested in further discussion. She linked her arm with Dustin's, and they entered the hotel.
"Hmph! She really doesn't know where she stands!" Quentin sneered as he watched them go. He saw Natasha's actions as a desperate attempt to save herself.
As time passed, more elite guests entered the Hillview Hotel. The Hummers' press conference was filled with distinguished guests and brimming with activity and excitement.
The Harmons' press conference, however, presented a stark contrast. It was desolate and empty, with hardly any attendees. Apart from the staff and several bodyguards, virtually no one else was present.
But Natasha wasn't bothered by the low turnout. She sat with Dustin, leisurely sipping wine.
"Natasha! What are you up to?" Two people rushed in. It was Jessica and Ruth.
"Why would you hold a press conference so suddenly, without any prior preparation? Are you messing around?" Jessica demanded.
"I know what I'm doing," Natasha said calmly.
"You know what you're doing? What do you mean? Have you seen the Hummers' press conference? It's jam-packed! And look at this? Not a person in sight! If word gets out, what will people think of the Harmons?" Jessica exclaimed in frustration. Not only had the Eternumax formula been stolen, but Natasha was publicly challenging the Hummers at a critical moment when she should have kept a low profile! Wasn't she inviting humiliation? How ridiculous!
"Natasha, I don't get it. You always plan ahead and are in control. Why have you made such a foolish move today?" Ruth was puzzled. With Immortunol, all Natasha needed to do was advertise, and they could easily compete with the Hummers. Why this arduous and unpromising approach?
"Let's not get worked up. Here, have a seat and something to drink. You'll find out soon enough," Natasha remained confident.
"Hmph! I'd like to see what tricks you have up your sleeves!" Jessica huffed as she sat down. She hoped nobody would show up, preventing the news from spreading. Any word about the press conference would make Harmon Pharmaceuticals a laughingstock.
"Hmm, is this the Harmons' press conference? Why don't I see anyone here at all?" An obese elderly man entered, looking doubtful.
"Dr. Shane?" Jessica was astonished. Dr. Shane rarely appeared in public. What was he doing here? He'd even disregard a prime minister's invitation if he wished.
"Dr. Shane, what brings you here?" Jessica immediately stood to greet him.
He ignored her and walked past, jogging enthusiastically to Dustin with a huge smile. "Mr. Rhys! You're here too! That ancient manuscript you gave me was wonderful. There's some information I'm struggling to grasp. Could you shed some light on it, please?"
Jessica was speechless. The legendary Dr. Shane was seeking advice from Dustin? What on earth was going on?