Chapter 86: Unease

"Frankly, the Camerons are no match for the Harris family. One misstep, and we're in trouble. I've been in contact with Nathael for some time. He's ruthless and cunning, not easily swayed. But gentle methods are ultimately better than harsh ones."

Maggie spoke calmly, her words carefully chosen.

The Cameron family, in their current predicament, were far from their former glory, let alone capable of opposing Nathael. They were like a desperate rabbit biting, bitter from sacrifices without reward.

Ronald sighed in agreement. "Maggie's right. We made a mistake underestimating Nathael. Instead of provoking him further, we should rectify the misunderstanding and strengthen our relationship."

A hint of sarcasm flickered in Maggie's eyes. "In the past, the Camerons acted this way because they believed they could control Nathael, and they did succeed. He yielded on several occasions."

She added, "But back then, I knew nothing. I naively thought our tactics were effective. I never imagined Nathael was intentionally letting us win."

"But you shouldn't have changed your mind before the press conference," Joseph interjected severely. "If Dad and Grandpa hadn't acted quickly, we would have been humiliated." He sensed something amiss but couldn't pinpoint it.

Maggie blinked, disappointed. "Joseph, didn't you promise to always support me? Have you changed your mind?"

Joseph was left speechless.

Maggie glanced at Madam Cameron and Olivia, whispering, "I noticed this before going onstage. I wanted to tell Grandma, but I was interrupted. And Mom always advised me to earn Nathael's trust and receive proper compensation." Ronald looked at Madam Cameron, who nodded with a furrowed brow. "Before going onstage, Maggie had something to tell me, but someone called her away."

Olivia hadn't expected to be involved, but reflecting on her conversation with Maggie, she found no fault with her advice. "I did suggest gaining Nathael's trust, but not in that way." She tried to deflect blame but had no defense.

"What's done is done," Ronald said solemnly. "We can't oppose Mr. Harris with our current strength. Maggie's suggestion is the right one." This incident made him realize Nathael was not as easily manipulated as he'd thought. He might have a slight interest in Maggie, a typical male fascination with attractive women—a passing fancy, inconsequential in the grand scheme of things. When it came to their interests, Maggie was insignificant to him, holding no real sway. Their focus should be on goodwill and forming an alliance with Nathael, not risking his displeasure.

Maggie's gaze turned cold. "I publicly promoted a positive relationship with Nathael, claiming we're close friends. Many will view us differently because of this." Master Cameron agreed. "Mr. Harris' reputation holds significant weight in Aquapolis. Even without a response from him, if others believe we're associated, everyone will tread carefully."

A cold smile crossed Maggie's face, noticing Master Cameron's thoughts. "These Camerons are self-interested and lack integrity. They plot against others yet expect others to work for them. They appear cunning but are shortsighted."

Nathael stood in the corridor, his dark pupils gloomily fixed on the partly-opened door. Alex stood a meter behind him, holding his breath, sympathetic. He'd suspected Ms. Adam was up to something. At the press conference, she'd spoken on Nathael's behalf, and he'd believed she'd changed. But she was still scheming, wanting more.

Nathael pursed his lips, his gaze dark and uncertain. It was like a rush of blood doused with cold water, a heart suspended, finally falling as expected. He'd known she might want more, but he'd clung to a glimmer of hope.

He chuckled softly. His narrow phoenix eyes were dark and cold, his thoughts unreadable.

"Nathael?" Beth's voice sounded beside him. Having learned about the press conference, she'd followed him.

Nathael ignored her, turning to leave. Beth hesitated, her gaze falling on the partly open door, catching a glimpse of a figure. She didn't follow.

[The rest of the text follows a similar editing style, correcting grammar, punctuation, and word choice for clarity and flow.]