Ian looked uneasy. “Miss Aurora, I’m not joking. That man plays really dirty. I’m advising you—better not get involved with him. If we lose the land in the south of the city, so be it. I’m sure Madam Grace would understand.”
He was genuinely worried for Aurora’s safety. No matter how capable she was, she was still a woman, and dealing with a man like that—a sleazy scoundrel—would be difficult. Ian had heard plenty about the man’s reputation, and it wasn’t good. Word of his behavior had spread through the entire circle.
“That won’t do. If Joseph can get access to something, then the Walton Corporation certainly isn’t going to give it up,” Aurora replied, signaling for Ian to start making the call to the project owner for the land.
Seeing the determined look on her face, Ian began to panic. He still hesitated, unsure whether to actually make the call.
Aurora’s patience thinned. “Ian, what exactly are you hesitating for? Don’t forget who you’re working for right now. If making a single phone call takes you this long, then maybe the Walton Corporation doesn’t even need to fight for this project.”
At that, Ian suddenly understood. She was right—this was only the start of the project. Were they really going to back down just because the partner had some questionable habits? Resolve returned to his eyes. “I understand, Miss Aurora. I’ll remember what you’ve said. You’re right, this is just the beginning. Why should we give up already?”
Aurora’s expression softened with satisfaction. “Good. Go find the partner’s phone number and keep me informed of any updates. And make sure you contact him—set up a dinner meeting.”
Ian nodded seriously. “Don’t worry, Miss Aurora, I’ll arrange the restaurant for you.”
“Alright, I trust your work,” Aurora said. Aurora reminded him once more, “Whatever unusual preferences he has are his business, not ours. Just focus on doing your job well. Tomorrow I’ll be taking you with me. All you need to do is help me dodge a few drinks if needed, but most of the time you won’t need to speak. Just remember that.”
Ian understood immediately. “Don’t worry, Miss Aurora, I’ll make sure to be properly prepared.”
Only then did Aurora wave him off, signaling he could leave. She had already given all the necessary instructions. The most important thing was still not to concern herself with Joseph. Since she had decided to take everything back one by one, this plot of land in the south of the city was only the beginning.
Later, Aurora’s smile turned alluring as she glanced at the contract on her desk, tapping lightly on Joseph’s name. “So, are you ready for my revenge?” Her lips curved, head tilting slightly, her gaze fixed entirely on those three letters of his name. The thought of how she had once wrongly acknowledged him for saving her left a bitter taste in her mouth. What stung most was that he hadn’t even denied it at the time—he had simply accepted and enjoyed three years of her kindness without a shred of guilt. Remembering that made Aurora feel deeply unwilling to let it go.