Chapter 169: Stop Disturbing Me

Ronald’s expression grew pensive as the banquet's atmosphere thickened with the buzz of online speculation. He opted for a measured approach, calling Joseph. "How are things with Andy? Is he officially part of our team?"

"I’ve been trying to reach him for days without success, but I spoke with Andy’s father. He’s given his word, and it seems Andy will join Luster Corporation," Joseph relayed. Concerned, Ronald pressed, "Then why can’t we reach him?"

"According to his father, Andy’s engrossed in his work. He’s a loner, focused on his craft, and dislikes interruptions. We may have to wait," Joseph replied, his tone a mix of frustration and resignation.

Despite repeated attempts to contact Andy and his assistant, they’d hit a wall. However, Vernon Farrow’s confirmation offered a glimmer of hope.

"And the Adams? Any word?" Ronald asked.

Joseph replied softly, "Nothing from the Adams yet, and no lawsuit against Vanessa. But Phillip is shrewd and dislikes our success. He'll likely try something."

Having briefed Joseph, Ronald returned to the stage and addressed the gathering through the microphone. "To address the main question: Andy hasn’t officially joined Luster Corporation yet. He’s eager to work with us, but the contract remains unsigned due to his busy schedule. However, I assure you Mr. Andy Farrow is committed to partnering with Luster Corporation, and I stand behind that statement." This eased some concerns.

Below the stage, Phillip smirked. "Ronald, it seems you're in for a disappointment. Andy has pledged allegiance to the Adam Group and will spearhead their new line next year, including high-end custom jewelry."

Phillip’s bombshell created a buzz of surprise and speculation.

"What’s going on? It seems the Adams mean business."

"There’s always been rivalry between the Adams and Camerons. With the Camerons challenging the Adams, sparks are inevitable. Though, the Camerons might be biting off more than they can chew. They don't seem as experienced as the Adams."

Ronald maintained his composure, though his face betrayed him slightly. He looked at Phillip and asked, "Phillip, what exactly are you suggesting?"

(Transition to second part of chapter)

…from Andy yesterday. Mr. Farrow has committed to working with the Adam Group."

"No way!" Ronald replied icily. Yet, inside, he was partly convinced. He knew Phillip well enough to understand that he didn't make unfounded claims. Phillip’s confidence suggested certainty. Ronald remembered Vernon’s debt to the Pierces and clung to a sliver of hope.

Phillip smiled. "This isn't meant to provoke. It's about recognizing talent. Perhaps a direct conversation with Andy will clarify things."

Joseph, concerned, added, "Andy's been deeply immersed in his work; it might be difficult to reach him."

Phillip, unruffled, turned to Ericko. Ericko then projected his phone screen onto the banquet hall's main display and called Andy for a video call.

The call went unanswered, causing Joseph to smirk. "See, Andy’s swamped with work. How could he have possibly committed to the Adams…"

His words trailed off as Andy unexpectedly answered.

The young man, appearing in his early twenties with a slightly chubby face and untidy hair, looked as though he’d been roused from sleep and was displeased. Maggie, intrigued, observed Andy's unconventional demeanor. Despite the close-up and his mood, Andy possessed a certain charm.

"What do you want?" Andy asked, looking seriously into the camera, his fatigue evident in the shadows under his eyes.

"Hi, Andy, this is Joseph, Vice President of Luster Corporation. We’ve spoken with you and your father. Luster Corporation is interested in you. What are your thoughts?" Joseph began.

Ericko and Phillip remained silent.

Andy furrowed his brow, then recalled. "I never agreed to join Luster Corporation. If my father owes the Pierces and you’re calling in that favor, that’s between you and him. If you’re interested in my designs, have him draw for you. Use them if you dare." Andy’s response was curt.

Joseph was taken aback. "But we discussed this…"

Andy interrupted with a dismissive laugh. "There’s nothing to discuss. I wasn’t opposed before because it didn’t matter where I went. But now, I’m with the Adam Group. Please, stop disturbing me."

He abruptly ended the call.

The expressions on Joseph, Ronald, and the other Camerons turned somber. While the Shawn situation had been a blow, it had remained private. Andy’s dismissal felt like a public rebuke, leaving the Camerons humiliated.

Ronald struggled to maintain composure, his dissatisfaction obvious.

"It seems Andy isn’t destined for the Camerons, a sacrifice courtesy of you, Ronald," Phillip quipped, noting the friction between the families.

Ronald’s forced smile faded. He didn’t attempt to smooth things over. Maggie respected Ronald's leadership; he was adaptable but principled.

"What are you implying, Phillip? Besides Andy, the Adams are accusing the Camerons of plagiarism. What’s the intention? Are the Adams here not to celebrate with the Camerons, but to confront us?"

Ronald’s pointed question cut through the tension, boldly challenging the Adams before the assembled crowd.