Chapter 1433

"How can I not be angry at what she said?!" Fabian snapped, pointing at the empty doorway. Rage pulsed through him. He wondered when his well-behaved daughter had become so impertinent. "Isn't it too late for her rebellious stage?"

"Ree, she..." Maria paused, wanting to say Rhea was telling the truth, but she dared not. Sighing, she continued, "Ree is still young. She doesn't understand many things. You shouldn't hold it against her."

"Am I holding it against her?! I..." Fabian plopped onto his seat, panting, and fell silent.

Maria changed the subject. "You're not usually like this. Why are you so on edge? Haven't things been going well? Why pick a fight with our daughter?"

He yelled, reaching for his empty glass. Maria quickly refilled it. "What's wrong?"

Fabian silently gulped down the water, his face gloomier than before. Maria's heart ached. After a moment, she asked, "Is it the project?"

Fabian had been busy with the project's bidding. A short time ago, he'd been elated, saying everything was going well. Now, he seemed to have hit a wall.

'That can't be,' she thought. 'Didn't Ron agree to the project?' This wasn't something easily manipulated. With such a solid contract, what could have happened? Her earlier comment must have struck a nerve.

Fabian reached for his wine glass; Maria poured. He emptied it instantly, gritting his teeth before saying gloomily, "Cameron doesn't want to meet me!"

"He doesn't want to meet you? What do you mean?" Maria was confused.

"I went to his office, then his house. A housekeeper said he hadn't been home for days," he explained bitterly. "I'm afraid he'll change his mind. The bidding day is nearing, and I'm hoping he doesn't pull out."

He'd wanted to see Cameron to solidify things, but Cameron was always unavailable. Even at his office, Fabian was told Cameron was too busy.

'Too busy? He's avoiding me! He must have changed his mind. Who knows what he'll do now!'

"How can that be?! He promised you, didn't he? Didn't you say everything was going well?!" Maria, unfamiliar with business dealings, was puzzled. "Besides," she added, "the miracle doctor is helping Tasia. Ron owes us now."

Fabian looked at her. "Huh? The doctor cured Tasia?"

"No, but soon! Medicinal herbs take time," Maria muttered, unsure of her claim. It was an impulsive remark.

"Wait? How long do I have to wait?! I think Cameron is going back on his words!" Fabian stood abruptly. "No, I have to find him!"

"If he doesn't want to see you, where will you look? You said he hasn't been home for days. His office?" Maria questioned.

After a pause, Fabian said slowly, "I heard there's a woman involved..."