Chapter 321: Gratitude Beyond Words
Master Harris's words cut deep, a sharp pain spreading through Maggie's chest. But she knew he was right. She fell silent for a few seconds, then looked at the old man and said slowly, "So, you want me to break up with him?"
Master Harris replied, "I know it's not fair to you, but fairness doesn't exist in this world. If you agree, you will receive handsome compensation."
Maggie said nothing. Despite his desire for her to break up with Nathael, the old man was being surprisingly polite. Many people spend their lives dreaming of marrying into wealth, like Vanessa. Each might believe they're in it for true love, so there was no need for her to argue.
"A lifetime lasts only a few decades, and love is just one pleasure among many," Master Harris said calmly. "Ms. Adam, perhaps you should explore the world, broaden your mind, and find joy in other things." Maggie met his sharp gaze. Her eyes turned red, and her throat tightened. "Will it hurt to let go?" she asked, her voice choked.
She didn't know why she asked such an obvious question. Even before the breakup, she felt breathless; how could it not hurt? But maybe she just wanted a different answer, something to help her deceive herself.
Master Harris said calmly, "Of course it will hurt. Life presents eight sufferings, including the inability to achieve desires and separation from loved ones. How could it not?" Maggie said nothing, lowering her eyes to conceal her tears. It seemed no one supported their relationship.
Then Master Harris continued, "But life shouldn't be too easy. A little pain brings clarity, which might not be a bad thing." He poured her more tea. "Eventually, you'll come to terms with it."
Maggie's eyes glistened. Her vision blurred as she asked, "What if I never come to terms with it?"
Master Harris smiled. "That's normal, too. The world is full of hopeless romantics."
Neither spoke for a while. Finally, Maggie asked softly, "Do you want him to marry someone from the Brays?" Master Harris shook his head. "That was the plan, but he went too far and declared war against them." Maggie furrowed her brows, but Master Harris reassured her with a smile. "However, he's now allied withโ"
Hearing this, Maggie relaxed slightly.
Master Harris continued, "Why don't you think about what you really want?"
Maggie paused. "I have three conditions."
"Let's hear them," Master Harris nodded, examining Maggie's face.
"First, I'll pick five films and appoint the female lead. I'll decide on the films, and you must ensure their successful release."
Master Harris squinted, surprised by the seemingly trivial demand. This request was for Joyce. She might not have much time left, and needed money to invest in film. The complexity of the situation limited her time. Without power and influence, she faced struggles, power plays, capital conflicts, scheming, and uncertainties throughout production and review.
"Who does Ms. Adam want to help?" Master Harris asked directly.
Maggie was frank. She pulled out a photo of Joyce and replied, "Joyce Sanders."
Master Harris took the photo, examined it, and handed it to his secretary. "It seems you came prepared."
Maggie smiled. "There's an old saying: 'Never fight an unprepared battle.'"
A few days ago, Joyce auditioned for a role but received only a minor supporting part instead of the lead. The issue wasn't just skill; the winning actress had a talented manager and financial support. Maggie remembered that in her past life, Joyce had gotten the same small role, but her company had secured her another project. Therefore, she decided to let the Harrises handle the scheming. She wanted only the desired outcome.
"If possible, I hope you can protect her from harm," Maggie said softly, hoping Joyce wouldn't face the same fate again.
Master Harris chuckled. "You're quite greedy, aren't you?"
Maggie nodded. "I am, but you'll agree."
He agreed. "All right. When you've thought about this, contact him, and he'll take care of everything." The young secretary handed Maggie a business card.
"My second request: If the Gatlins ever get into trouble, I hope you can help them."
Master Harris remained silent, his gaze darkening. Finally, he said, "Jordan Gatlin is lucky. He's bold, resolute, and resourceful. He's not a bad person. If the Gatlins run into problems, I'll give them a hand." Maggie felt more at ease.
Years later, in her previous life, the Gatlins faced a significant crisis, leading to their downfall. Unfortunately, Maggie was blind and disfigured, isolated at home, with Mia and Joyce shielding her from the outside world. She had no idea when their troubles began. If she had known, maybe she could have prevented it.
"And your third request?" Master Harris asked.
As Maggie was about to speak, Master Harris interrupted gently, "Ms. Adam, think carefully. This is your last condition."
Maggie fell silent before slowly saying, "I would like Master Harris to hire a doctor for me."
"A doctor?" he asked, raising an eyebrow. "For what reason?"
"Samuel diagnosed me with dream venom. If I were to die from it, I wouldn't be at peace. Even if there's little hope, I still want to fight for my life," she said, looking directly into Master Harris's eyes, her voice soft but resolute.
Master Harris frowned. His gaze intensified as he examined her. She calmly allowed him to study her silently, wearing a serene expression and a subtle smile.
"How much time did Samuel say you have?" he asked slowly, evidently knowing about dream venom.
"Less than six years," she replied with a gentle smile.
His brow furrowed. "While Samuel is good at physical healing, his sister, Iris Hudson, is particularly adept at detoxification. I'll arrange for her to provideโ"
Maggie stood and bowed. "I can't thank you enough."
Master Harris waved his hand dismissively. "It's a deal. No need for thanks."