Chapter 162: Lucky Break

Before the Camerons, Maggie was not very talkative.

Lucas handed her a box, saying uneasily, "Maggie, I brought you a gift."

16:55 Mon, 20 May 07 B

Let's Start All Over Again, Shall We?

Chapter 162: Lucky Break

Before the Camerons, Maggie didn't engage in much conversation.

Lucas handed her a box and said uneasily, "Maggie, I brought you a gift."

Maggie paused before looking up at him.

Lucas hadn't shed his childishness. He blushed awkwardly—a stark contrast to his demeanor on the phone. Accepting the white gift box, Maggie fleetingly remembered him bringing a similar box when he returned from abroad in a past life. The box was different, the location different, but the gift inside was undoubtedly the same.

Vanessa, sitting beside Joseph, commented, "I never realized Lucas and Maggie were so close. They seem like siblings."

Olivia smiled and added, "Lucas has always been introverted, only occasionally opening up to Maggie."

Vanessa teased Joseph, "I wonder what he gave her? Speaking of which, why didn't you receive any gifts? Did you used to bully Lucas?" Maggie's eyes flashed coldly, briefly sweeping over Vanessa. This woman seemed to attract trouble.

Was Vanessa's past-life mischief comparable to the Camerons'? Perhaps not, but her current disdain was unprecedented.

Madam Cameron smiled, "Oh, Lucas, what's this? Back from abroad without gifts for your cousin? What about your uncle and aunt?"

Lucas was Madam Cameron's sister's grandson, from a different branch of the family. His family had dwindled; his mother had passed away, leaving him orphaned early. His paternal grandparents, upright but modestly renowned scholars, were not wealthy. Fortunately, his parents had left him a considerable fortune.

Maggie knew much of this. She knew that they had fallen into the Camerons' hands, and Lucas had met a dire, unaccounted-for end.

Lucas frowned, disliking Vanessa's insinuation. He wasn't foolish; he was quite sharp.

Balance: 710 +136

1 Coins 1 Pearls

Chapter 162: Lucky Break

Lucas was prepared, but luggage space was limited after his trip. He'd mailed everyone's gifts, so they'd arrive later.

Maggie quickly explained, knowing his temper.

Madam Cameron's expression softened. Maggie then turned to Vanessa, saying, "But Joseph and Mom weren't in a hurry, Vanessa. You seem quite concerned." The implication was clear: Vanessa had overstepped as a girlfriend.

Vanessa's face soured. "I didn't mean it that way; it was a joke."

"A joke is only funny if the person it's about finds it funny. Does anyone here find this funny?" Maggie asked gracefully. "Besides, we're at home, you can act as you please. But outside, such behavior reflects poorly on our family."

Vanessa clenched the pillow tassels, her expression fierce.

Madam Cameron nodded in agreement. "Maggie is right. Though Joseph likes you, your background and lack of social graces might lead to inappropriate behavior. I'll arrange a tutor."

Madam Cameron's tone was serious but mild, yet her words stung Vanessa.

Vanessa forced a strained smile. "You're right. I'll learn from Maggie."

Lucas said coldly, "Some things are beneath you."

Vanessa trembled with anger.

Maggie's gaze was defiant. Undermining Lucas's relationship with the family? Not on her watch. Was Vanessa trying to put Maggie in her place simply because Lucas was kind to her?

Before Vanessa could respond, Ronald and others came downstairs.

"Maggie, welcome home! I hope you've caught up with Lucas. Joseph and Vanessa are back, too. Let's discuss the future of our jewelry line." Ronald initiated the conversation. "Maggie, you didn't disappoint. The contract with Mr. Lewis secures a steady gem supply; we await delivery."

His expression turned somber.

Balance: 710 +111

1 Coins 1 Pearls

Chapter 162: Lucky Break

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Vanessa interjected, "Uncle Ronald, we know the importance of designers. Joseph and I have contacted a renowned domestic designer. He may not be internationally famous, but he better suits our needs."

Ronald asked, "Which designer? Are you confident?"

Joseph stated firmly, "Andy Farrow. He's been invited to international jewelry exhibitions and won numerous awards. We expect his answer by tomorrow night."

Maggie's heart sank. Andy Farrow? She knew him very well—from numerous national and international competitions where she consistently defeated him. He'd pestered her relentlessly, always wanting to talk, but she'd ignored him to avoid revealing her identity. He considered her a thorn in his side. Despite his antics, she admired his work; she also knew from her past life that he'd design many popular pieces after joining a new company.

Maggie's eyes turned icy. The Camerons were lucky. She'd expected Joseph to find a replacement, but not Andy. If she were to bring down Luster Corporation, she couldn't let Joseph hire Andy.

This cleaned-up version addresses grammar, punctuation, spelling, and paragraphing for improved readability and flow. It also removes redundant or unclear phrases.