Chapter 1192
As Tessa spoke, her eyes shimmered with unshed tears, making her look pitiful and fragile.
Grace’s heart softened. The truth was, the reason she never let Tessa take on the company’s affairs had always been rooted in her own private worries.
“But Tessa, what about your health?” Her condition was one thing—but there was more to it, unspoken concerns Grace kept to herself.
“Mom, my health really isn’t an issue.” Tessa’s expression was earnest. “What matters more to me is your well-being—that you stay healthy and happy every day.”
Hearing this, Grace felt a wave of comfort in her heart. Having such a caring daughter left her deeply reassured.
“I’m glad you think that way. It makes me so happy,” Grace said, though concern still lingered in her tone. “But your health is no small matter.” She couldn’t take chances with Tessa’s body—what if something went wrong? No mother could bear that.
But Tessa could see the truth. The repeated refusals only meant Grace still didn’t want her involved in company matters. The realization made Tessa clench her fists, a knot tightening inside her. Why, even now, did her mother still refuse to accept her? Why not let her step in and take responsibility? What exactly was she afraid of?
Determined to seize the chance, Tessa spoke up. “Mom, I heard everything at the door. Why won’t you let me take this opportunity? As for Mr. Lewis, I can at least try to talk to him.”
“You know about the southern land project?” Grace’s eyes widened in disbelief. She hadn’t realized Tessa had overheard everything she’d said to Jason—she’d assumed her daughter knew nothing. Grace narrowed her eyes slightly, her gaze toward Tessa shifting with suspicion. How long had she been standing outside the door to have overheard so much?
Tessa nodded firmly. “Yes, Mom, I heard everything. That’s why I understand how difficult this is for you and why I want you to agree to my request. Let me share the burden for you.”
“But you’ve never been involved in this before. You don’t know the specifics of the project. The one who worked closest on it was your sister.” Grace’s voice carried her worry. “What if Mr. Lewis makes things hard for you? His reputation in business is notorious, and everyone knows it.”
Unless absolutely necessary, Grace truly didn’t want Tessa to go. After all, she had always lived a sheltered life. She rarely stepped beyond the walls of home, except for her time studying abroad. Now to send her alone to face Lewis—it made Grace uneasy to her core.
But Tessa’s resolve was unshakable. “Mom, everything has to be tried once. If I keep hiding behind you, afraid of everything, then I’ll never grow.
“I want to try. Even if something goes wrong, I’ll bear it myself. I won’t bring you trouble. The only reason I want this is to ease your burdens.” Her voice grew firmer, her eyes locked on Grace with unwavering seriousness. It was clear she wasn’t joking in the slightest.