Chapter 220: Apology

Ronald approached Nathael and Maggie, a smile on his face. However, he tripped over scattered glass shards, his expression souring. Nathael remarked, his tone displeased, "Quite a hospitable display from the Camerons."

Master Cameron quickly intervened, "Mary isn't familiar with company matters and focuses on leisure. That's why she didn't recognize you, Mr. Harris. I apologize. I'll ensure she learns better." He then scolded the servants: "Clean this mess up immediately!"

"Right away," the servants responded.

Ronald, subdued enthusiasm masking the eagerness in his eyes, gestured, "Mr. Harris, please follow me."

Mary, still holding her cheek, stood dumbfounded, puzzled by the man's importance to Master Cameron and Ronald. Joseph, observing their joined hands, felt a mix of emotions. He whispered to Mary, "He's Nathael Harris."

Mary froze, unease washing over her. Nathael's reputation was formidable. Despite his youth, he controlled the Harris family's power, eclipsing even the patriarch. More unsettling was his enigmatic, ruthless demeanor, making his intentions unpredictable.

Mary stumbled, her vision blurring. "M-Maggie's boyfriend is Mr. Harris? H-How is that possible?" She remembered hearing about Maggie being sent to seduce Nathael but hadn't given it much thought lately. She acknowledged Maggie's charm, but Nathael was clearly in a different league.

Maggie sat beside Nathael at the head of the Camerons' table, flanked by Master Cameron and Ronald. Servants served fruit, pastries, coffee, and tea with utmost respect.

Master Cameron said, "Maggie, you should have informed us about Mr. Harris's visit."

Before Maggie could respond, Nathael said sternly, "My arrival was abrupt. I wanted to clarify the jewelry incident with Maggie, but I didn't anticipate this situation." His gaze locked onto Ronald's, sharp and penetrating. Despite his youth, the confrontation emitted a formidable aura, leaving Ronald uneasy.

Ronald interjected hastily, "This is a misunderstanding. Maggie knows how we treat her, right, Maggie?" He regretted his actions. If only I hadn't let Mary discipline Maggie, he thought.

"Yeah, Nathael, my parents treat me well," Maggie affirmed earnestly.

Nathael chuckled but remained silent. Ronald's heart sank; he doubted Nathael believed him and worried about the impression this made on the Harrises. He quickly ordered, "Mary, apologize to Mr. Harris and Maggie!"

Mary, embarrassed and aware of the Harrises' power, especially with Maggie dating Nathael, approached Nathael, forcing a smile. "Mr. Harris, I apologize. Your handsome appearance caused a misunderstanding. I lost my cool due to Luster Corporation matters"

Maggie remained quiet. Nathael stared at Mary with cold, dark eyes. "Ms. Cameron, I accept your apology," he said coldly. Ronald, Mary, and Master Cameron sighed in relief.

Then Nathael threw the tea tray across the room. The cups and teapot shattered. Everyone froze. Ronald stammered, "Mr. Harris, what's this about?"

Nathael replied calmly, looking at Mary, "This is how Ms. Cameron welcomed me; I'm reciprocating."

He added, "As long as Ms. Cameron cleans up, I'll overlook the Camerons' actions, for Maggie's sake." His tone was calm, but his words forceful. Ronald realized Nathael meant he would overlook the Camerons' actions, not just Mary's. He knew they couldn't afford to further offend the Harrises.

He quickly decided, "Mary, clean up now!"

Mary was incredulous. Am I supposed to pick this up by hand? I haven't done chores in years! she thought. Maggie, however, remained unaffected, finding Nathael's serious demeanor strangely captivating. She suggested, "Nathael, maybe we should forget this."

Nathael ignored her, focusing on Ronald. "What do you think, Mr. Cameron?" He was giving Mary a way out, and Ronald knew refusing would have severe consequences.