Chapter 215

Teri, extremely frustrated, answered the phone. Already in a bad mood, she was curt with Emmalic. "Miss Rowland, what's the matter? If you want to talk about you and Duncan again, I'm sorry, but I really don't have time."

Emmalic responded bluntly, a hint of arrogance in her voice. "Teri, are you sure you want to talk to me like this? There's nothing I can do. Duncan loved me—too much, you think? Do you believe I decide if I'll marry you?" Teri's clenched fists cracked. Her eyes burned with hatred and resentment, but she couldn't give up on Duncan after pursuing him for so many years. She had to humble herself. "Miss Rowland, is there anything I can help you with?"

Emmalic's lips curled into a smug smile. "I like talking to smart people like you, Ms. Langstaff. It's simple: I don't want to see Thea living so comfortably. Find a way to make her lose everything, and I won't interfere in your relationship with Duncan. I'll even put in a good word for you."

Though she knew Emmalie was ruthless, Teri couldn't refuse. Conflict filled her eyes.

Emmalie continued, "You know Duncan hates Thea. If Thea loses control of Sparkle Rocks, he'll definitely favor you."

Teri hesitated. Thea, despite their strained relationship, was still a Rowland. Teri feared the family's future retribution.

Emmalie's impatience grew. "I'll handle everything else. Just tell me: yes or no?"

Determination flashed in Teri's eyes. She bit her lip. "I understand. I'll do as you say, but don't forget your promises."

Emmalic smirked. "Of course, Teri. I look forward to working with you." She hung up.

A chill crossed Teri's face. Thea, if you want to blame someone, blame yourself for offending Emmalie. She forced my hand.

Ursa's live-streaming strategy proved effective. Sparkle Rocks' profits and fame grew, reaching beyond Silvercreek. But Thea wouldn't stop there. Selling raw stones wasn't profitable enough, and supply was limited. She learned that Sparkle Rocks initially dealt in raw stones and casinos, employing a professional appraisal team. The current business model felt inefficient.

As Thea pondered improvements, her new secretary, Hannah Rehbein, whispered, "Mrs. Hendrix, Ms. Wade is back." Thea wasn't surprised. Henrietta wouldn't stand idly by while Sparkle Rocks thrived.

Thea said, "I understand. Prepare for the meeting."

Henrietta was arrogant in the meeting, ignoring Thea. Others greeted Thea upon her arrival, but Henrietta remained seated.

Thea chuckled. "It seems you're doing well, Ms. Wade. You've even gained some weight."

Henrietta's expression shifted. "Mrs. Hendrix, you're mocking me. I've been working on the company's future, attending networking events to find partners. I've actually lost weight."

Ignoring Henrietta, Thea addressed the attendees. "Is everyone here?"

"Ms. Holmes has a prior engagement," someone replied.

Henrietta sneered, "Even Ursa isn't here. She's clearly disappointed in you and Sparkle Rocks. What will you do without me?"

Someone coughed, glancing at Henrietta. "Ms. Holmes is busy with online influencers for advertising and live streams. She's very interested in live streaming."

Henrietta's face contorted.

Thea set down her cup, the quiet clink a subtle warning. The room fell silent.

Coldly, but politely, Thea said, "Ms. Wade, I understand, but I hope you'll understand others. This meeting concerns live streaming. You're not interested. Perhaps you should leave? We can talk later."

Henrietta slammed her foot. "What do you mean? Are you dismissing me?"

The previous speaker remained silent, having learned his lesson. Henrietta was clearly in the wrong.

Seeing everyone's silence, Henrietta's anger intensified. "You should be grateful I'm back! I've secured a large order from the Langstaff Group."

Everyone's expressions changed, including Thea's, though she quickly composed herself. A suspicion formed: Could Henrietta have been bribed by Teri? Teri's previous refusal to buy Sparkle Rocks' stones now made sense. She likely made a deal with Henrietta. But Thea sensed something more was at play. Beyond her conflict with Duncan, Thea couldn't understand why Teri would target her. It seemed like a missed opportunity not to make the sale.