Chapter 128: One Last Chance

In a sleepy daze, Maggie mused that if Nathael still claimed unhappiness, she would kiss him until he changed his mind.

When Nathael ended the call and turned around, he found Maggie curled up, embracing a pillow, her head tilted in slumber. Her breath was shallow and steady, possibly due to alcohol, and her fair complexion was slightly flushed and warm. Strands of her hair, initially pinned up, had fallen loosely, framing her ears. The sight was alluring.

Nathael watched her for a moment from beside the sofa. Seeing a faint sheen of sweat on her nose, he adjusted the air conditioner and gently covered her with a thin blanket.

"You jerk," she murmured.

As if sensing something, Maggie stirred and struggled to open her eyelids. In her dazed state, she caught sight of a familiar figure. With a soft murmur, she closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep. Nathael chuckled softly. He had to acknowledge her skill in persuasion. Sweet words flowed effortlessly from her lips, delivered with earnestness, as if each syllable came from her heart.

Nathael felt strangely calm after his initial anger. He knew he shouldn't be moved; he should be angry. Yet, with her, his emotions always seemed to transcend boundaries.

After some time, Nathael couldn't resist tucking a strand of hair behind her ear as he whispered softly, "Let's just be an unbeatable team from now on."

"Mm…" Maggie murmured softly, frowning slightly, seemingly in agreement. Nathael's gaze softened, and he chuckled lightly.

Later, in the suite's study, Nathael, having shed his coat, stood by the French windows, awaiting Alex. A few minutes later, Alex entered quietly and murmured, "I've discovered that Ms. Adam finalized a significant gemstone and jewelry order with Shawn on behalf of the Camerons."

Nathael remained silent, gazing at the European-style buildings. Eventually, he spoke in a deep tone, "Tell Jimmy to place a substantial jewelry order for the company next quarter." Alex paused, contemplating Nathael's intentions.

While the Harrises operated a jewelry business, it wasn't their primary focus. Most of their jewelry consisted of high-end custom designs. In a sense, Nathael was treating it as a game. Alex sensed that Nathael hadn't invested much effort in the jewelry sector and didn't intend to compete seriously. Nevertheless, he had put some effort into it. Alex felt Nathael was biding his time.

Moreover, the Harrises had significant annual jewelry demands due to their involvement in various fashion industries, including magazines, movies, and social media, with their collaboration with Jimmy in the entertainment industry being most notable. Previously, their collaborations had always been with the Adams. But this year…

"What about Mr. Adam?" Alex cautiously inquired.

Nathael's expression darkened. "As usual," he replied.

Alex pondered. As usual? Does this mean the Camerons' order is an additional purchase? He even specified it should be substantial. Alex's thoughts raced, connecting this to Maggie's presence in the living room.

Both the Hansens and the Harrises showing respect to the Camerons would elevate the Camerons' status, especially given Jimmy's prominence. Nathael's actions would boost the Camerons' standing.

As Alex contemplated Nathael's motives, Nathael suddenly turned. "Someone's been monitoring Shawn," he said.

This snapped Alex's wandering thoughts back into focus. If someone was monitoring Shawn, he couldn't fulfill his obligations. Without Shawn's deliveries, the Camerons would face supply shortages. And if the Camerons couldn't meet their orders, they'd face significant penalties—often three times the contract amount—resulting in substantial losses.

Understanding Nathael's intentions, Alex wondered if Nathael had finally come to his senses after talking to Maggie. Or had Maggie provoked him into such drastic measures out of resentment? Otherwise, why target the Camerons?

Despite the Camerons having a contract with Shawn, it was dubious. Shawn operated in questionable areas, and the contract was only enforceable as long as Shawn remained undetected. Essentially, it served as a reputation safeguard, compelling Shawn's compliance as long as he wanted to remain in the industry. But if he were caught or his assets seized, the contract would be void.

Understanding this, Alex couldn't help but ask, "But will Ms. Adam…"

"Be upset?"

Before Alex could finish, he glanced at Nathael with a thoughtful gaze. Nathael smirked. "No," he replied. "But even if she found out, she would likely be pleased. If the Camerons mistreated her, nothing else matters."

After Alex left, Nathael called his mother. Isabel greeted him warmly. "Nathael, why are you still up?"

"Mom, could you take Grandma to the Camerons' jewelry store? If you see anything you like, make a few purchases, and I'll reimburse you."

Isabel laughed. "Are you trying to butter me up?"

"I'm just being a good son," Nathael replied, maintaining his composure.

Isabel chuckled. "Alright. I know you're a good son."

After Nathael ended the call, his eyes darkened. His mother, Isabel Ford, and grandmother, Caitlyn Ballard, were influential Aquapolis socialites. With their patronage, many prestigious families would likely flock to the Camerons' jewelry store, doubling their orders. When the truth surfaced, the Camerons would be in a bind, especially when dealing with these influential families. They would go bankrupt compensating them.

Early the next morning, Maggie rose from the sofa, rubbing her head. Gazing at the unfamiliar surroundings, she paused. What happened yesterday? Oh, I was with Nathael. Where's that jerk?

Maggie whirled around, finding herself alone. Observing the undisturbed bed, she surmised he had left after she fell asleep, unkeen on watching her sleep.

After showering and having breakfast, Maggie prepared to return to the classroom. Just as she was about to leave, Alex knocked and entered, addressing her as "Ms. Adam."

Maggie hesitated, regarding him with a complex expression. She felt annoyed; his presence almost always led to trouble. "What's up?"

Alex remained silent, his expression unreadable. Handing her a hotel card with a serious demeanor, he said in a deep voice, "Mr. Harris said you have one last chance tonight."

"To do what?" Maggie asked, trying to decipher the ominous words.

"To make him happy," Alex replied impassively.

Maggie was stunned into silence. Flushed with anger, she immediately removed Nathael's number from her blacklist. He's shameless, but I'm not! How could he just say that to people? As Maggie looked at Alex, wondering what he must have thought of her, she couldn't help but feel frustrated.