Chapter 334: Overcoming This Tough Time

Nathael paused, then said, "Ying, I'll speak to my grandfather. While the Camerons are facing difficulties, you're still a wealthy family. Overcoming this could lead to even greater prosperity."

His confident words resonated with Ronald, who, despite maintaining a strong facade, desperately wanted to save his life's work. In these stressful times, good news was a lifeline.

Ronald, however, understood Nathael's underlying message. While the Camerons' situation differed from the Harrises', there was room for improvement. Nathael's mention of engagement suggested support, evidenced by the generous offer of 150 million. While insignificant to the Harrises, this was a substantial engagement gift.

Ronald grasped that the engagement wasn't guaranteed. Nathael likely intended to assess the Camerons' ability to recover. Success would lead to marriage; failure, to its cancellation. In a flash, Ronald understood the arrangement.

Olivia, Madam Cameron, and the others openly rejoiced. The recent gloom lifted.

"Mr. Harris," Ronald eloquently stated, "your concern for Maggie is evident. The Camerons' current inability to provide adequately for her is regrettable."

Maggie smiled outwardly but was deep in thought. Why was Nathael offering hope now, after never mentioning engagement before?

"Alex, transfer the funds. Also, transfer assets to Maggie's name as a gift from me," Nathael instructed. Alex complied immediately.

Turning to Ronald, Nathael added, "Consider this my personal engagement gift. I understand your struggles, and I won't pressure you."

Alex expressed concern. "But, Mr. Harris… explaining this to Master Harris will be difficult."

Nathael frowned. "It's fine. I'll handle it."

Alex remained silent, but muttered loud enough for all to hear, as he reviewed contracts, "But the Camerons aren't beggars. How can they accept an engagement without contributing anything? This reeks of scheming to pressure Ronald for more money."

Ronald, Master Cameron, and the others were displeased. Being compared to impoverished people was humiliating, even for the thick-skinned Master Cameron. Ronald, especially, flushed with embarrassment, speechless for a moment.

"Mr. Solace, you're right, but our situation is dire. How about an IOU? We'll make up for Maggie's engagement gift once things improve. Maggie, is that acceptable?" Ronald asked sincerely, his graying hair and clouded eyes conveying guilt and uncertainty. His vulnerability elicited sympathy.

Maggie inwardly sneered; she knew Ronald's manipulative nature. Extracting money from him wouldn't be easy. However, Nathael's offer was rare and couldn't be missed.

After a pause, Maggie said slowly, "Dad, maybe we shouldn't get engaged. If Master Harris learns of our situation, he'll disapprove. Our family is struggling, and…"

Ronald interrupted. Regardless of future benefits, the 150 million could save the Camerons' business! Master Cameron and Adam Cameron were anxious. "Maggie, how can you say that? You're disregarding Mr. Harris's goodwill!"

Maggie's eyes welled. "But our family is in trouble. What other options do we have? Appearing to take advantage of the Harrises will be damaging to everyone's reputation." She continued, "I don't care how others see me, but what about Mom, Dad, Grandma, and Grandpa? The humiliation will be unbearable."

Sierra immediately suggested postponing the engagement, stating that it wasn't urgent and could wait until the family's finances improved. Unfamiliar with business, she simply wanted to avoid the stress and felt unfairly burdened by the Luster Corporation's damaged reputation. In reality, she didn't want Maggie to marry Nathael, believing Nathael was hers. Seeing Nathael and Maggie's matching rings fueled her jealousy.

Ronald was about to rebuke Sierra's foolishness, but Maggie, pale, agreed to postpone the engagement.

Ronald felt a surge of anger. Overcoming this tough time without money was impossible! The family had only 30–45 million in liquid assets; the mortgage loan, squandered by Sierra's actions, had been unhelpful.

Nathael began, "Mr. Cameron, if you don't wish to proceed, I won't force you. Alex…"

Before he finished, Ronald, suppressing his heartache, said gently, "Maggie, times are tough, but your happiness is paramount. Even if we must tighten our…"