Chapter 39: Capabilities

“Is Ms. Adam a local?” one of William’s friends asked, his eyes admiring Maggie.

Maggie smiled, remaining genuine. She quickly made several acquaintances, and the atmosphere was pleasant. The singing and dancing were exhilarating. William poured Maggie another glass of wine. “Ms. Adam,” he asked, “did you come here just to make friends?”

Maggie smiled at him. William was attractive, though less refined than Nathaniel. However, he possessed a certain charm. His tired eyes, shadowed with greenish-gray, hinted at a life of indulgence in wine and women. He seemed drained, adrift, as if something was missing.

“As expected, I can’t hide anything from you,” Maggie said, getting straight to the point. “Besides befriending you, I’m here for the Herschire Cultural Park project.”

After another glass of wine, a warm flush rose to her cheeks. William clapped, his hand resting on her shoulder. “I appreciate your straightforwardness!”

“Many are competing for the project,” Maggie said, “but I believe the Camerons will win, if you speak up.”

William nodded, pouring another glass for Maggie. “I raise my glass to Ms. Adam.”

The conversation paused. Although William lacked a formidable strategy, his wealthy family background was a significant asset; they were shrewd. Maggie sipped her wine as the others applauded.

William then spoke, his gaze lingering on Maggie. “This isn’t difficult, but what can you offer me?”

“What do you want?” Maggie asked, feigning ignorance.

William’s fingers brushed her shoulder. He smiled and changed the subject. “How about we find another place to talk?”

Maggie smiled. “Mr. Hansley, do you have feelings for me?”

Taken aback, William smirked. “I—”

“I’ll raise my glass to Mr. Hansley again,” Maggie interrupted, pouring a full glass for him. (Internal monologue: Pervert, trying to get me drunk? Don’t expect to get away with it.)

William sipped his wine. “What do you think?”

Maggie’s radiant beauty, enhanced by the club’s lights, captivated him. He was restless but not as naive as a less experienced man.

Maggie leaned close, her fingers teasing his lapel. “Of course, I’m willing. But my grandfather asked me to deliver a message. I don’t know if you’ll still be willing after hearing it.” Her perfume cut through the smoky air.

“Master Cameron?” William asked, glancing at her.

“Grandpa said he’ll keep your affair with Madam Lydia secret. But for the Herschire Cultural Park project, we need you.”

William’s face changed. He grabbed Maggie’s neck, panic and fear in his eyes. “You wench! You’re threatening me!”

Maggie, anticipating this, chuckled. “I heard Madam Lydia has a son.”

William’s grip tightened, murderous intent in his eyes. The pain made Maggie’s vision blur, but she smiled, knowing he wouldn’t kill her.

The sudden shift stunned the onlookers. “William, what’s happening?” they asked. “Did Ms. Adam say something?”

They tried to mediate, surprised by the sudden turn. (The blood had drained from it.)

Maggie touched her neck. (Internal monologue: Tsk, he almost killed me…)

William quickly recovered, telling his friends it was a misunderstanding. Maggie smiled, observing him silently. William was a womanizer, with rumors of past indiscretions, but the Hansley family always protected him. The Lydia affair, however, was a weakness.

Calm returned. Maggie poured two more glasses, handing one to William. “I raise my glass to you, Mr. Hansley.”

“How did you find out?” William downed his wine.

Maggie smiled. “The Camerons, though not highly influential, are a wealthy family with a long history. If my grandfather wants to uncover something, he will.” (Internal monologue: Shifting the blame to Master Cameron.)

(Internal monologue: Master Cameron hoped to win William’s favor through me. I’ll make William despise him!)

A surge of satisfaction filled Maggie. She looked like a poisonous poppy.

William drank two more glasses. “The Herschire Cultural Park project? Fine. I’ll assign it to the Camerons. But if you breathe a word, you’ll regret it!”

Undeterred, Maggie clinked her glass with his. “It’s been a pleasure doing business with you.”

“Tell Master Cameron to curb his greed,” William added, intending to ruin the Camerons.

Maggie stood, whispering in William’s ear, “Don’t worry. My grandfather always praises your abilities.”