Chapter 170: Unfortunate

Phillip, unfazed by Ronald’s challenging tone, replied lightheartedly, “Indeed, the Adams are here to offer congratulations. However, the Camerons have clearly copied our designs. I wish them luck, but legal action is also an option.”

Ronald scoffed. “The Adams are known for their generosity. That seems exaggerated. You’re simply worried about the Camerons encroaching on your market.”

Phillip shrugged. “If you think so, explain the Adams’ long-standing dominance. Our market share isn’t easily eroded. If the Camerons prove themselves, we’ll acknowledge it.”

Ericko added, “I feel compelled to say this: The Camerons’ dubious methods won’t ensure lasting success. Prove your skill, and we’ll accept the challenge.”

Ericko’s comment further provoked Ronald.

“The Adams’ accusations don’t make them fact,” Ronald retorted. “However, we’re prepared to face the lawsuit. We trust the legal system.” He was surprisingly optimistic, despite their heavy borrowing from the Adams’ designs. Legal battles over creative rights were notoriously difficult, and the Camerons had subtly altered the designs. Ronald was banking on a favorable court decision.

Master Cameron intervened, “This may be a misunderstanding. I believe the Adams’ congratulations are genuine. Our new line will allow the public to judge the plagiarism claims.”

Addressing the crowd, Ronald declared confidently, “The Camerons have always pushed boundaries, often facing criticism. But I’m optimistic. We’ll meet expectations and ensure timely delivery. Our commitment and effort will speak for themselves.”

Maggie observed coolly, her mind racing.

Mia leaned in. “Your foster father handles PR crises well. He seems to manage these significant issues with ease.”

Maggie remained unfazed. “However clever a fox, it eventually shows its tail.”

The banquet continued, with everyone maintaining a facade of unity despite private reservations. Maggie, with a stern look, discreetly retrieved the bug Lucas had given her and approached Joseph.

“What about Andy? Did Vanessa expose our designs to the Adams?”

Joseph looked troubled. “Andy backed out. We were certain after his father’s assurances; who knew he’d side with the Adams?”

Maggie laughed bitterly. “That’s not helpful now. The Adams have everyone’s favor, and we’re smeared.”

Joseph’s mood darkened. “We also had supplier problems, and the duties you were supposed to oversee didn’t go as planned.”

Maggie was incredulous. “Blame-shifting now? Is this about your embarrassment? I had nothing to do with Shawn’s seized goods. That was the family’s decision. They knew the risks. If blaming me helps you sleep, go ahead.”

The tension was palpable, her words sharp.

Joseph’s face flushed. Technically, Maggie oversaw the jade stones while he managed the designers. Any slip was critical, and he hadn’t foreseen this complete breakdown.

“There’s no point arguing now; we need to fix this,” Joseph said calmly, eager to avoid a fight. He had previously underestimated Maggie, but now saw her as an adversary.

“You might want to tell Dad that,” Maggie said ironically, ending the conversation.

She walked away, leaving the words hanging. Unnoticed, she subtly placed the bug on the inside of Joseph’s jacket. She then walked away, her expression icy.

Shortly after, Lucas texted confirmation. Maggie, with headphones on, listened to Joseph’s conversation with Vanessa. “Wait here. I need to talk to Dad.”

Vanessa, uncertain, asked, “Joseph, will he blame you? What’s our plan?”

Joseph saw Vanessa’s inadequacy compared to Maggie’s decisiveness.

“Use your head. If you want to stay my girlfriend, think,” Joseph retorted sharply before finding Ronald.

He found his father in a meeting room. “Dad, our first shipment from Shawn was confiscated. Besides the financial hit, we’re low on jade. With pending orders, we won’t meet deadlines.”

Ronald, angry and despairing, was taken aback.

“We’re out of luck,” Ronald admitted, losing his composure. He knew they needed to fulfill existing orders and find new jade sources.

Joseph worried, “Now what? The Adams are causing problems. When they unveil their products tomorrow, public opinion will swing their way.”

“We need to assess our reserves and pause all orders. We’ll prioritize deliveries to prestigious noble families, then the upper echelon, and then the rest based on family influence…”

Ronald calmly laid out his strategy, unaware that his conversation with Joseph was being broadcast throughout the banquet hall.