Chapter 364: How Ruthless
The press conference was extremely important for the Sherritt family, a testament to their collaboration with the Lockhart Group and a significant step up in high society. Not every company could collaborate with the Lockhart Group; a financial titan, its presence in business circles was legendary and formidable. Therefore, any association with the Lockhart Group undeniably elevated a company's status.
The alliance between the Sherritt family's entertainment business and the Lockhart Group's financial prowess was a historic cross-industry collaboration, instantly grabbing public attention. As head of Sherritt Group, Rupert felt an overwhelming surge of excitement. The thought of his company's soaring reputation filled him with immense pride and accomplishment.
Backstage, Cheryl, in a dazzling gown, reminded her father, "Today's press conference is super important. The Lockhart Group CEO might even be there. Don't get nervous, and don't forget your lines." Rupert, with a solemn nod, reassured her, "Don't worry, Cheryl. I'll definitely seize this opportunity." He had already practiced his speech the previous night. How could he not adequately prepare for such a momentous collaboration? Reassured by her father's confidence, Cheryl nodded in agreement.
A while later, the press conference began. Rupert and Cheryl made their grand entrance as the host spoke, greeted by thunderous applause. Rupert, impeccably dressed, took the stage first; Cheryl, in a blue gown, gracefully followed.
Meanwhile, at the Sherritt residence, others watched the live broadcast. Scarlet, watching from the couch, felt absolutely delighted. While the Sherritt family had once been considered prestigious, nothing had been truly extraordinary. But now, everything had changed. The collaboration between Sherritt Group and Lockhart Group would significantly elevate their standing in high society, making Scarlet even more superior to her socialite peers. The thought of their envious gazes at future gatherings nearly made her laugh.
Just then, her phone beeped, abruptly interrupting her delightful mood. Irritated, she checked the message: "Mrs. Sherritt, this is Cole, Mr. Sherritt's assistant. Mr. Sherritt is currently holding a press conference regarding our collaboration with Lockhart Group. We hope you can come over as soon as possible."
Scarlet furrowed her brows. What's going on? Why was Rupert calling her to the press conference? Were they trying to put her in the limelight? A satisfied smile spread across her face. At least the old fart had some conscience; he couldn't pull this off without her.
There was no reason not to go. Scarlet stood up, hurried to her room to change into a decent outfit, and freshened her makeup. Once she looked refined and elegant, she grabbed her bag and left.
The press conference had reached its climax. After Rupert presented the collaboration project, he started an on-the-spot lottery with luxurious gift packages (premium travel, cash, and other gifts) as prizes. The audience was brimming with enthusiasm.
Arriving at the scene, Scarlet was immediately struck by the lively atmosphere; her smile deepened. She walked in, head held high. Javier, inconspicuously observing from the crowd, spotted her, his eyes lighting up. He nodded to a middle-aged man beside him, "She's over there. It's your turn now." The man nodded, "Please rest assured," and quietly approached Scarlet.
The atmosphere remained electric. Just as someone celebrated winning the lottery, a chilling shriek rang out, drowning all other sounds. "Who are you? Don't touch me!"
Everyone turned to see an elegantly dressed socialite passionately kissing a middle-aged man. He then tightly embraced her, crying out fervently, "Scarlet, you're mine! You promised to spend your whole life with me. How can you abandon me now? You're so heartless. Why on earth would you treat me like this?"
Scarlet was terrified. Frantically hitting the man with her bag, she shouted, "Who is this lunatic? What nonsense are you talking about? I don't know you at all!"
He became even more frenzied, "How dare you pretend not to know me, you wicked woman! You professed your love for me, but swindled all my money, leaving my family in ruins! I was foolishly deceived for years, hoping to win your love! You're nothing but a fraud!"
The crowd buzzed with excitement, speculating about their relationship. Rupert and Cheryl, nearby, were taken aback.
"Mom!"