Chapter 308: Stay Together Forever as Public Service

"Sorry, ma'am, this wedding dress is for display only; it's not for sale," the salesperson assisting Vanessa and Joseph quickly clarified.

Nathael, uninterested in their transaction, turned to Howard and asked, "Who's in charge of this brand?"

Vanessa and Joseph noticed the commotion. A bustling group was hard to miss.

"It's Mr. Will Jankson," Howard promptly replied.

Nathael signaled to Alex to approach. Before he could speak, Vanessa affectionately linked arms with Joseph and exclaimed, "Hey, Maggie! I didn't expect to see you and Mr. Harris here!"

Joseph looked up, clearly surprised. His gaze fell on Maggie, and he felt a pang seeing her hand in Nathael's.

Maggie admired Vanessa's confidence; her enthusiastic greeting suggested a close friendship.

Vanessa pulled Joseph forward, smiling. "Are you and Mr. Harris getting married too? Joseph and I are getting engaged. Once we sort out the house and hotel arrangements, we'll tie the knot."

Maggie smiled. "It shouldn't take long. The Camerons have plenty of properties, and Joseph has several ready but unused. No need to buy or renovate."

Vanessa's expression stiffened slightly. Maggie's smile deepened; she knew Vanessa well. Vanessa wanted a quick Cameron marriage to solidify her status, but Joseph's excuses about houses and hotels were clearly delaying tactics. After all, the Camerons were wealthy, and Joseph, with his construction background, surely owned houses. And a hotel? With their resources, they could find something suitable in three months. Vanessa's ambitions didn't require much from the Camerons.

Feeling embarrassed, Joseph said, "Though we have houses, we're planning a home together. It needs renovating to Vanessa's liking, and we need to consider the school district. It shouldn't be just any house."

With Joseph's support, Vanessa's complexion softened. "Joseph's right," she said sweetly. "Mr. Harris wouldn't just use one of his old houses, would he? It needs to be a home for both of you."

The store fell silent; everyone stared at Vanessa incredulously. Is she crazy? Does she know what she's saying?

Joseph froze, speechless. Maggie couldn't help but laugh, thinking, Someone, get this crazy woman out of here!

Nathael said in a deep voice, "My assets will be transferred to Maggie's name, and she can live in whichever house she likes. You don't need to worry about that, Ms. Brown."

Vanessa's smile faded; jealousy surged. She felt her face burn as she understood the mocking gazes. Nathael was Maggie's boyfriend, and the Harrises were far wealthier than the Camerons. Maggie didn't even consider which house to choose or if her name would be on the deed! Vanessa had been thrilled with one Cameron house, yet Maggie received far more without effort.

"Sorry for my narrow-mindedness," Vanessa chuckled, attempting to cover up. "Your boyfriend's Mr. Harris, so of course you wouldn't think about these things."

Maggie looked at her coldly, thinking Vanessa lacked intelligence. Vanessa had again insulted Joseph, implying he was inferior to Nathael. Even if true, who would want their girlfriend to say that?

Joseph's expression soured. Vanessa, oblivious, smiled. "I don't expect much like you do, Maggie. I can't compare to you. Joseph cares about me and even gave me a house. I'm happy with that."

Nathael said seriously, "If it's Cameron Group property, Ms. Brown, you should be careful."

Vanessa, momentarily distracted by Nathael's handsome face, was shocked. She'd always considered Joseph good-looking, but compared to Nathael, he seemed plain. Nathael's presence was far more commanding.

Despite her jealousy, Vanessa knew she needed to keep Joseph—a difficult task given her humble background. She'd wanted a man like Nathael but failed. She considered herself practical.

"What do you mean, Mr. Harris?" Vanessa asked, blushing under his gaze.

"The projects funded by Cameron Group often have low-quality control and materials," Nathael said quietly, subtly humiliating the Camerons. Joseph's face darkened.

Nathael sneered, "Mr. Joseph, if you disagree, the Harrises can bring quality experts to challenge you."

Tension escalated. Joseph knew Nathael spoke the truth, feeling guilty and losing confidence. Vanessa's expression fell; she realized she couldn't compete.

"Let's drop this," Vanessa said, changing the subject. "Maggie, will you wish Joseph and me well in our marriage?"

Maggie found it amusing. They don't dare confront Nathael directly, so they're trying to show off to me? Do I look like an easy target?

"Sure," Maggie smiled brightly. "I hope you both have a long and happy marriage—and that you stay together forever as public service."

Vanessa was upset, about to speak, when Alex returned. "Mr. Harris, Mr. Jankson said he's very happy you and Ms. Adam like this wedding dress. He's willing to give it to you both for free. He thinks it would be great for your wedding photos."

(Send Gifts)