Chapter 8: To Give the Schemer the Shares

Jack spoke before I could say anything, a cold sneer on his face. “Remember, you said you wouldn’t use the family’s money. I hope you haven’t forgotten that promise!”

Elsa tugged at his sleeve, pretending to speak for me. “Don’t say that about Jane. She started her own business to be independent; we should encourage her, even if she doesn’t get good results!”

Jack wrinkled his nose disdainfully. “What more encouragement does she need? She was confident enough to start a business.”

Mom and Dad descended the stairs just then, prompting Emelda to glare at him.

“What are you saying to your sister, you brat!” she reprimanded. “Speak rudely again, and you’re out of the house!”

Jack snorted but said nothing more.

“How’s your business going, Jae?” Mom asked worriedly. “Tell us if you encounter any difficulties. We can help.”

I smiled. “Don’t worry, it’s progressing smoothly. I’ve found several investors and will launch a design very soon. I believe it’ll be a big hit!”

Jack laughed contemptuously. “I didn’t expect such quick progress, but this is just the beginning. Even if you had talent, your skills have rusted after so many years of marriage. Tone down the confidence, lest it backfires.”

I glanced coldly at him. Although displeased, he wasn’t wrong. In my previous life, I’d let my career go to waste because of love. This time, I wouldn’t make the same mistake.

“I’m aware of my past mistakes, Dad, Mom. Please trust me. Once my career is on track, I’ll work hard and won’t disappoint you!”

My parents were gratified, but Jack eyed me suspiciously.

“Whether you produce results isn’t something you can guarantee verbally,” he said scornfully. “Haven’t you been hanging out with Eric? Your head is filled with romantic notions. No matter how hard you try, you won’t produce good results.”

Jack never missed an opportunity to put me down.

I rolled my eyes. “With that attitude, you’d think you’re my archenemy, not my brother!”

Jack’s expression darkened.

Seeing the tension, Dad spoke to alleviate it. “Whatever the case, Jae’s motivated. Even if she fails, she can inherit one of the company’s businesses. We have a hand in many industries, so there’s surely one she’ll want to take over!”

Jack straightened. “Dad, Mom, Elsa’s better at designing than Jae. Since Jae started her own business, why not give her company shares to Elsa instead?”

Elsa waved her hands, frightened. “That’s not a good idea, Jack. How could we transfer Jane’s shares to me? And Jane wouldn’t agree.”

I narrowed my eyes. Elsa was probably ecstatic. I usually didn’t care what she did, but if she coveted what belonged to me and the Brown family, I wouldn’t let her have her way.

“You’re right, I’m not willing to give them to you,” I stated frankly. “And I don’t want our parents to hand over any company businesses to Elsa! I’ve treated her well enough despite her seducing my husband and slandering me. Don’t tell me I’m supposed to surrender everything to her before she quits?”