Chapter 117: Ouch

Accompanying Nathael to buy clothes had become a daunting task for Maggie, especially since he seemed intentionally to torment her by not specifying a time.

Maggie continued her studies as usual. Although it was an exchange program, the coursework was light, consisting primarily of seminars, field trips, and several banquets. During this time, she met many designers, including some familiar faces from Yatria.

Meanwhile, the Cameron Jewelry Company, after reorganization, relaunched as Luster Corporation. They opened seventeen new stores nationwide and established high-end showcases in various foreign capitals. One day, Ronald called.

"Maggie, how are you enjoying yourself?" he asked.

Maggie wondered why he called, but her voice held a joyful tone. "It's good, Dad. How is everything at home? I saw the jewelry company is open."

"I called specifically to discuss that. While the company is established, our family's primary business has never been jewelry. Competing with the Adams is challenging; they're not to be underestimated," Ronald said gently.

"I understand, Dad."

"I know you're hurt by Joseph and Vanessa's relationship. But Vanessa has gained the Adams' trust—we must use this opportunity."

Ronald paused, gauging Maggie's reaction. "If using Vanessa bothers you, we can explore other options. But avenging your mother and our family against the Adams must be done."

Maggie's gaze was cold. Ronald employed his usual tactic of strategic retreat. His words sounded pleasant, but she knew him well.

Who would pass up such an opportunity? Holding a grudge was unproductive. True to her nature, she considered the bigger picture and chose the most advantageous approach.

"Dad, things have reached a point with Joseph; we shouldn't miss this opportunity. Since Vanessa is favored by the Adams, let's use this to our advantage," Maggie said calmly, appearing thoughtful.

Hearing her resolve, Ronald reassured her, "With that, I can rest easy. Don't worry; as long as I'm here, Vanessa will never marry into our family. No matter what happens between you and Joseph, I'll never approve of their marriage."

Maggie felt she should be moved to tears, but since Ronald wasn't present, she pretended to be choked up. "Dad, you…"

"Let's put this aside. Vanessa has informed us the Adams are short on supplies. Their source from Treye has an issue, and they'll lack gemstones and diamonds for the next quarter." Maggie frowned. A hint of scheming flashed in her eyes. "Could it be a trick?"

"No, I've verified it. Treye's gemstones were bought by Ecroabar businessmen, and the Adams lost out. As for the diamonds, a mine collapse in Stoajan caused a major accident." Maggie smirked coldly. The fish had taken the bait.

With Ericko inside and her outside, Ronald would surely be hooked. Ericko was adept at his tactics; Ronald was suspicious and wouldn't be easily convinced.

"So, we're seizing the Adams' sources?" Maggie asked softly.

Ronald acknowledged Maggie's intelligence. "If Sierra had possessed half her wit, she'd be welcomed back into the family."

"You guessed it. The Adams plan to obtain goods from Shawn Lewis to compensate for their losses. If we take what Shawn has, we secure our supply for next season and severely damage the Adams."

Maggie wasn't surprised. Shawn was her target; her brother had likely contacted him and leaked information to Vanessa. Ronald thought he was in control, but he'd walked into a trap.

"Is this man trustworthy? What's his background?" Maggie questioned.

Ronald summarized their intelligence and moved to the main point. "Shawn is in Yatria. Find a way to meet him and sabotage his deal with the Adams. Seize the goods."

After a long conversation, Ronald finally stated his objective. Maggie was surprised Shawn was in Yatria—it saved her time.

"Dad, don't worry. I won't let the Adams succeed. They'll get what they deserve!" Maggie asserted confidently.

Ronald expressed superficial concern before ending the call. Afterwards, Maggie texted Ericko: "Everything is going well."

Ericko called back quickly. "You're right. The government is investigating Shawn; they've been waiting for a large shipment."

Maggie grinned, anticipating the Camerons' financial losses. "Let the Camerons play good Samaritan; they have the money."

Ericko chuckled warmly, advising, "Take care of yourself."

"They haven't grown suspicious," Maggie said, confident after passing Ronald's test.

Three days later, after a conference, Maggie exited the hotel to find a black Bentley pulling up. Alex exited and opened the door. "Ms. Adam."

Maggie saw Nathael inside—dressed in a silver-gray suit, his face stern, his eyes intense. She swallowed, instinctively stepping back. If only she'd known… if only she hadn't called him a pig. She sighed, realizing how small the world was and how quickly they'd met again. She hadn't expected Nathael to find her so quickly.

"Ms. Adam?" Alex's reminder snapped her back to reality.

Maggie took a deep breath and decided to proceed. She'd seen all sides of Nathael. What was there to fear? He was just a human being. He wouldn't hurt her.

She stepped into the car, accidentally stepping on Alex's foot. Alex's face contorted; his lips clenched as his gaze fell on her high heels. He suppressed his pain. Ouch! That hurt!