Chapter 199: I Will Give My All

"Do you think you stand a chance at winning the championship?" Ronald asked.

Maggie was stunned. "Huh? What?" she feigned bewilderment.

"At Sierra's banquet, I heard you play. Several experts praised your skill, calling it extraordinary and on par with internationally renowned pianists. I know you're talented," Ronald explained sincerely. Olivia, beside him, looked uneasy.

Since Master Cameron had expelled Sierra, Olivia, as her mother, must have felt remorseful. She had left Sierra with her parents to be raised by the Pierces. While Sierra hadn't faced much hardship recently, she couldn't go home, and many things had been taken from her. Happiness was elusive.

"Dad, my piano skills are just average," Maggie demurred. "I stopped studying after over a year. Although I had a few teachers later, my abilities are limited. I might win a prize, but the championship is beyond my reach!"

She glanced at Olivia and added thoughtfully, "Dad, Sierra has been studying hard and just won another international award. Why don't you ask her to come back? I'm not sure if she's registered…" She hesitated, seemingly recalling something.

Olivia interjected, "Is it the University's Piano Competition? She mentioned signing up a few days ago. She's been away so long, facing life's trials without the comforts of home. Now she recognizes the value of hard work and determination!"

"Yes, Dad, I'll do my best, but if you want to win, Sierra has a better chance," Maggie said gently. "Moreover, there are no problems a family can't overcome. Our current crisis dwarfs Sierra's misunderstanding of me."

Olivia nodded, pleased with Maggie's attitude, then looked at her son, Joseph. He found Maggie increasingly difficult to understand. Sometimes she seemed malicious, especially given Sierra's claim that Maggie had threatened her with a knife. Yet now, she appeared concerned about their sisterhood and resolving old resentments.

Ronald frowned, silent.

"Dad, please let Sierra come back, otherwise I'll feel very guilty," Maggie insisted.

Ronald seemed to surrender. "Dad, what do you think?" he asked Master Cameron.

Master Cameron waved a dismissive hand. "Why ask me if it's good for the Camerons? More importantly, despite Sierra's immaturity, she is still one of us."

Seeing Master Cameron's reaction, Ronald stated his plan directly: "I intend to boost investment in the competition to attract more viewers. Maggie and Sierra will wear Luster Corporation jewelry in every round to grab attention."

Maggie considered this. She admitted that while Ronald had a ruthless mind and no bottom line, he wasn't brainless. In her past life, he'd achieved success through strategic thinking and intuition. This seemed fan-centric.

"This will build a large fan base and promote Luster Corporation's products. Winning will attract attention, and the jewelry they wear will be noticed," Ronald explained in a deep voice.

Maggie analyzed his proposition calmly, though inwardly she sneered. Ronald's plan aimed to turn the tournament into a prestigious event, attracting high-profile universities. However, the scheme targeted her. If she didn't consider sacrificing Sierra, she'd bear the sole responsibility. Luster Corporation's tarnished reputation was well-known. She worried about criticism and being booed if she wore their jewelry.

Ronald was adept at planning.

"Dad, that's reasonable, but I lack the skills to win the championship…" Maggie paused, considering her next move.

"Don't worry, just do your best. Sierra will also work hard. Once you two take the lead, people will recognize the value of Luster Corporation."

Maggie nodded resolutely. "I promise I will give my all."

"I also plan to hire talent show contestants to wear Luster Corporation jewelry. They're mostly novices, easily hired, and happy to receive free jewelry," Ronald elaborated.

Olivia agreed. "Initially, they lack a fan base, so criticism will be less damaging. As their fame grows, we can collaborate on designs."

"I intend to sponsor talent show prizes. Even with Luster Corporation's reputation, genuine gold and silver rewards should attract customers. It's an opportunity to grow our customer base," Ronald stated firmly.

Chapter 199: I Will Give My All

He'd planned this secretly.

"But, Dad, this will cause a substantial financial outflow, and we're short on funds," Joseph pointed out. He'd been working with Ronald, primarily liquidating assets. After selling Maggie's assets and low-profit holdings, the family had lost nearly a third of its wealth.

Ronald mused, "Then we have to keep selling. If Luster Corporation fails, we'll be swamped with debt."

"Dad, reconsider. It's too risky. We don't know how much profit the incentives will generate, and most of our assets are operational," Maggie advised.

Ronald stated solemnly, "There's no need to discuss this further. It's settled."

At that moment, Sierra entered the living room, wearing a long red dress and large sunglasses.