Chapter 69

Eastview Tower

After the meeting, Stephanie exited the conference room. Jennifer quickly approached. “Boss, big news.”

“What big news?”

“Someone’s trying to undermine you.”

Stephanie raised an eyebrow, glancing at Jennifer.

Jennifer continued, “The Hart family is telling major companies not to hire you. We’ve heard the same thing.”

Stephanie remained silent, a cold gleam flashing in her eyes. A slow smile curved her lips.

“Heh, alright.”

“Are we going to fight back?” Jennifer asked, aware of Stephanie’s connection to the Hart family and believing they’d gone too far. Treating their own daughter so harshly, clearly because of their adopted daughter—what kind of family was this? It was despicable.

Stephanie replied, “Fight back? No need.” Someone would handle them. Olivia Hart was terminally ill; she didn't want to bother. If no one acted, perhaps it was best to let things be. But the Hart family clearly felt too secure. If they were too comfortable… then she would…

A cold, mocking glint crossed Stephanie’s eyes as she walked toward her office. Suddenly, the receptionist’s voice echoed from the front: “Mr. Hodge? What brings you here? Are you here to give our studio a project?”

Stephanie turned. Jackson and Lilian were entering, Jackson looking furious. Spotting Stephanie, he strode toward her, growling at Lilian, “Hurry up.”

Stephanie frowned as they approached. Before she could react, they reached her.

“Stefi, it’s been hard to find you. Can we talk?” Jackson glanced around the small, but not shabby, studio. People were everywhere. He lowered his voice. “Can we go somewhere quieter?”

Jackson’s arrival warranted a polite response. Stephanie nodded. “Follow me.” She led them to her office, gesturing toward the couch. “Take a seat.” She sat behind her desk and turned to Jennifer, who’d followed. “Two cups of…”

Stephanie’s gaze shifted to Lilian. “You’re picky, aren’t you? Probably won’t like the coffee here.”

Lilian stood frozen, stunned. Seeing Stephanie at her desk, she thought of her visits to Jackson at his company. Why was Stephanie in that position? Was this…?

Noticing Lilian’s silence, Stephanie addressed Jennifer. “Just one cup of coffee, please.”

“Okay, boss.” Jennifer nodded and left to get the coffee.

Jackson sat, but Lilian remained stunned. Stephanie took a sip of water. “Mr. Hodge, what brings you here?”

Jackson paused. Unlike Lilian, he’d witnessed much at the Hodge Group.