Chapter 214

Ursa snorted softly, gathered her things, and stood, her eyes distant and cold. She sneered, "If you want to praise me the way you praised Henrietta, don't bother. Incidentally, your proposed method did change my opinion of you. However, today's events reveal strategic thinking, but a lack of insight into people. Someone like you is simply not suited to be a leader."

Thea knew Ursa was referring to Henrietta. Unaware of the company's full situation, she couldn't explain her plan to Ursa; she needed to play it out. With a straight face, she said helplessly, "Ms. Holmes, you and Ms. Wade have worked together for quite some time. You need to temper your aggressive personality."

Ursa, even angrier now, looked at Thea with disappointment. "Whatever," she said.

Despite her helplessness, Thea instructed the finance department to increase Ursa's bonus and salary. She could only hope Ursa wasn't like Henrietta; Ursa was demonstrably more intelligent.

Unlike Thea's calm demeanor, Teri was visibly angry. During the meeting, several senior executives reported the recent poor quality of gems received, with many raw stones being virtually useless. The situation was drastically different from their work with Sparkle Rocks, a company known for its integrity. Sparkle Rocks had professionals inspect their raw stones before sale, with a success rate of over 65% in yielding jade and jadeite.

One employee lamented, "Ms. Langstaff, if this continues, the Langstaff Group's reputation will be ruined. We've already received numerous customer complaints."

Another added, "Exactly. They said Sparkle Rocks' new CEO wasn't up to par, but I disagree. She's managing well and maintains their reputation for honesty. Their products sell well. If this continues, we won't get any more raw stones."

Teri's anger flared. She threw nearby objects to the floor. "Enough! I've just taken over the Langstaff Group. It's natural that I'm not perfect; I'm still learning. Why are you all so eager to rebel? Do you want to be fired?" The others fell silent, though their eyes still showed resentment.

Taking a deep breath, Teri attempted damage control. "The Langstaff Group is vast; raw stones aren't our only business. I made a mistake, due to inexperience, but that doesn't mean I'm incompetent. Do you understand?" The contempt in their gazes only deepened.

Though Teri would inherit the Langstaff Group, she currently managed only the raw stone purchasing branch. The other branches and headquarters were run by her father's subordinates. Her initial boasts now seemed foolish; within a month, she was in a disastrous state.

After the meeting, Teri stormed into her office, wanting to contact Duncan for comfort. She sent several messages, receiving no reply. Finally, her phone vibrated. A message from Duncan raised her hopes, only to dash them again: "[Teri, Duncan has a pressing matter. His phone is with me. I'm sorry; I didn't mean to read your messages, but you sent so many I thought something was wrong.]"

Teri gritted her teeth and replied: "[It's okay. Since he's busy, I'll contact him later.]"

Unbeknownst to Teri, Emmalie's face was cold. Seeing Teri's updates about Thea, Emmalie's jealousy burned. She thought, "Thea secretly inherited a company and is thriving! Not only that, but Teri mentioned Nicolas. So Nicolas went to Silvercreek for that woman!" She'd expected Thea to suffer after leaving the Rowland family, but Thea seemed better off than ever. This was unacceptable.

Duncan, having just returned, was stunned by Emmalie's cold, sinister expression—a stark contrast to her usual naivete. He felt a surge of indescribable emotion.

Emmalie noticed him and instantly shifted her expression to a grateful smile, though tears remained. "I'm sorry, Duncan. I saw your phone ringing repeatedly and glanced at it out of curiosity. Thea took over Sparkle Rocks in Silvercreek and is doing incredibly well. I'm happy for her, but also afraid."

"Afraid of what? Don't be afraid. I'm here." Duncan feigned calmness, approaching her. He checked his phone, frowning at the messages. He thought, How did Thea manage to thrive after her falling out with the Langstaff Group?

Emmalie wiped her tears. "Thea and I had misunderstandings; she's powerful now. If" She trailed off, her trembling softening Duncan's heart. Forgetting her earlier behavior, he patted her back, comforting her patiently. "It's fine. Even if Thea is remarkably capable, she can't compete with the entire Rowland family."

Emmalie bit her lip, looking pitiable. "I just remembered Thea secretly bullying me when I returned. She even said that if she ever had money and power, she'd drive me out."

"Duncan, I just want to be with you, Mom, and Max. I don't know why Thea hates me so much."

Duncan's heart ached, yet he offered no concrete action, only assuring Emmalie of the Rowland family's support.

Emmalie believed Thea couldn't challenge the entire Rowland family, but her goal was Thea's downfall. She wasn't sure if Thea knew about her secret; if exposed, her wealth and status would vanish. Destroying Thea was the safest course.

She feigned obedience, smiling sweetly. "I knew it. You're the best."

Once Duncan left, the smile vanished. On the balcony, she impassively made a call.