Chapter 213: The Core of Business Operations

"What's your game, Maggie?" Sierra's expression changed; her heart was unsettled, sensing underlying tension.

"Not much," Maggie replied, remaining composed, her gaze fixed on Sierra with a seemingly amiable smile. "Just highlighting the compromise in Ms. Cameron's integrity."

Locked in a gaze with Maggie's deep, round eyes, Sierra felt a shiver run down her spine, an indescribable coldness enveloping her. Maggie was undoubtedly more intricate than she appeared; she must have a larger plan brewing, but Sierra couldn't decipher it.

"Sierra, it's almost your turn. You should get ready," Danielle interjected, rushing over and sensing trouble upon seeing Mia. She immediately realized another incident had transpired.

"Ms. Cameron," Mia began, countering Sierra's unspoken concerns, "would you consider swapping your necklace? The one meant for Maggie seems more fitting for you, given its larger logo. Yours needs more impact; the logo is too small. As a member of the Cameron family, I know your luxuries are courtesy of them. Given Luster Corporation's current woes, I assume you'd be inclined to help." Mia smiled. "Naturally, if you'd rather not, that's fine. Your current necklace isn't particularly remarkable."

"Mia, you've crossed a line!" Sierra's rage trembled. She started to leave, then stopped and turned back, her poised demeanor replaced by fierceness. With red eyes and unsteady breath, she appeared on the verge of tears.

Maggie stood, joining Mia. "Mia's right," she said softly. "You have the option not to wear it if you don't like it. Your parents will understand."

"Maggie, Mia! Just you wait! You'll regret this!" Sierra declared fiercely, tearing off her necklace and tossing it onto the dressing table before storming out.

Maggie watched her leave with a determined look, her lips pressed firmly together. If Sierra refused to wear Luster Corporation jewelry, both Master Cameron and Ronald would be furious. Profit was at the core of their business operations. While Sierra's occasional stubbornness might be overlooked during prosperous times, with the Camerons facing challenges and significant losses, their attempts to revitalize their image were crucial. They'd increased investments and become major sponsors of the competition. Ronald, specifically, requested significant screen time for Sierra and Maggie to showcase their jewelry, alongside a brief advertisement for Cameron real estate.

Initially, the production team hesitated due to the Camerons' damaged reputation, but Ronald's generous offer swayed them. Now, with Sierra's refusal to wear jewelry, a storm of fury was anticipated. It seemed Ronald's efforts would be wasted.

As Heidi finished Maggie's hair and makeup, Maggie settled back into her chair. Mia and Heidi then adorned her with the ruby necklace Nathael had sent. The luxurious, vintage design was simple yet opulent; rumored to be the seventh Empress of Yatria's favorite set, it exuded power and feminine allure.

"Wow, this is perfect for Maggie! Nathael really knows his stuff," Mia praised.

Maggie grinned. Mia hadn't truly opposed Nathael; she'd simply been concerned for Maggie. Now, she could relax.

Alex's eyes twitched slightly. If it were someone else, he might have commented, but he simply lowered his gaze.

Maggie looked at herself in the mirror, feeling surreal. In her past life, she'd given her competition spot to Vanessa. Luster Corporation hadn't faced such setbacks, eliminating the need for this gamble. However, everything had changed. She'd altered the course of her past life.

She delicately touched the necklace's exquisite Pigeon Blood ruby, its hue perfectly complementing her skin. Originally, she'd planned to borrow jewelry from Ericko at Adams Group to promote them, then compare it to Sierra's to elevate Adam Group's jewelry.

Despite her willingness to help, Nathael had no objections, but Ericko refused.

"Nana, be cautious with the Camerons. They don't need your help this way. We want you to flourish too. Besides, I'm not so weak that I need you to boost Adam Group. Wear whatever you like. Nathael has plenty of jewelry."

Maggie hung up, feeling a pang of hurt. These were her family. She'd been too easily swayed in her past life. Hiding her hurt, she resolved not to dwell on it.

Ericko later sent five or six sets of jewelry, including two unreleased high-end pieces and several priceless items from his previous collection.

A new plan formed. "Mia, do you have any Adam Group jewelry?" Maggie asked, excited.

"Yeah, I'll have it sent in ten minutes," Mia replied, making a call.

Maggie wasn't sure she could manage it, but she decided to try.

The competition venue was the Aquapolis Grand Theater. Once opulent, it had declined but was recently renovated. Mia owned several properties nearby.

Twenty minutes later, it was Maggie's turn. In a new gown, she confidently walked onstage. In her dressing room, Sierra watched the live broadcast.

"Ms. Cameron, Maggie is about to appear."

Sierra sat up, a wicked gleam in her eyes, anticipating Maggie's potential embarrassment. She imagined Maggie's dress straps slipping and her face contorting.