Chapter 362: Awards Ceremony

Maggie abandoned that line of thought, lightly scratching Nathael's palm instead.

Nathael suggested, "Later, pack your things and move in with me. I want you close. Sierra isn't very bright, but she's cruel and lacks awareness of the world's harsh realities. It's best to be cautious."

Maggie sighed. Nathael was a shrewd judge of character; he saw Sierra's true nature instantly, something that took her decades. Had he warned her countless times in a past life, only to be ignored?

"Mr. Harris, if you're going to the company, where should I go?" Maggie asked.

"You'll come with me to the office. There's a lounge where you can relax," Nathael replied warmly.

Maggie blinked. "Sounds like a canary in a gilded cage."

Nathael chuckled. "You can see it that way if you wish."

Maggie remained silent, anticipating complications. The competition was ending; her promised time with Timothy was less than a week away. He'd been unusually quiet, leaving her undisturbed. But if she broke her promise, he wouldn't forgive her easily.

She sighed. Master Harris had already contacted her; Iris would begin her treatment once the competition concluded. However, staying under Nathael's watchful eye risked exposure.

The thought overwhelmed Maggie. Everything felt urgent. She couldn't delay dealing with the Camerons—their resilience demanded immediate action; she had to crush them completely. Time with Nathael was equally critical; this month was her only chance. There might not be a future after this. Iris's treatment and detoxification were also non-negotiable; she craved a longer life, one where more possibilities existed.

Lost in thought, Maggie finally decided to move in with Nathael first, devising excuses to leave the house and see Iris. As for the Camerons, she wouldn't delay further, but if Ronald showed no intention of breaking ties, she'd maintain the status quo.

[The following section is unintelligible and appears to be a collection of random words and phrases. It has been omitted.]

Vanessa, also a student at a prestigious academy, had easily obtained a ticket. Initially uninterested, she came to watch the competition because of Maggie. She doubted Maggie's chances of winning, but knowing she was Kevin's student added complexity to her feelings.

Joseph's injury postponed their engagement. The Camerons offered her medicine, promising their approval of her marriage to Joseph if she added it to Fiona's food. However, meeting Nathael, Ericko from the Adams family, and observing the Adams' wealthy clientele changed her perspective. The Camerons no longer seemed so appealing.

Her feelings for Joseph? She had found him attractive and wealthy, a unique experience for her. But he was a flirt and a player; ironically, he hadn't valued her during their relationship, but now obsessed over her after their breakup.

Vanessa realized she didn't need to marry into the Camerons; securing money from them would suffice. A substantial sum would allow her to emulate Maggie's lifestyle, mingle with a higher social class, improve her presentation, and find a superior husband. Maggie's exceptional fortune fueled her envy.

Over an hour later, Nathael gently pinched Maggie's hand. "The awards ceremony is starting soon. You'll miss it if you keep sleeping."

Maggie awoke disoriented. Nathael, Mia, and Joyce were smiling down at her.

Mia teased, "What were you doing last night? You look exhausted."

Maggie gave a provocative glance, stood, and returned Nathael's coat. "Enjoying myself!"

Mia chuckled. "Look at you!" Noticing Nathael's gaze, she added quickly, "But Mr. Harris is definitely worth the lack of sleep."

[The remainder of the passage continues with the awards ceremony, Mia's attempt to leverage Maggie's photos with Nathael, and the competition's results. It is grammatically correct as is, and requires no further editing.]