Chapter 175: Unexpected
Fury flared on Janet's face. A moment earlier, she'd been about to leave the hall. But the memory of Oscar and Hannah's affectionate kiss made it impossible to remain seated. She took Oscar's chair, expecting Hannah's anger. Instead, Hannah responded with indifference.
Oscar then hobbled back, seemingly unfazed by Janet's action. He simply took the seat beside her. Janet cringed at her childish behavior, struggling to quell her emotional turmoil. She considered negotiating with Hannah again, reminding herself of her victory in their recent business competition. She could trade her own business for Oscar's affections, believing Hannah's eagerness for success would make her amenable. But Hannah's reaction had been humiliating, her self-assured demeanor infuriating.
Janet also learned that the Light Building endorsement had gone to Little Bunny, a celebrity with minimal popularity. Janet saw no potential in Little Bunny, questioning Hannah's motives. Was it a makeshift solution after failing to sign Win? Was Hannah plotting something? Or merely posturing? Janet vowed revenge.
"Miss Burke," Hannah replied casually, "thank you. But focus on your own business. The Burke family is prolific; someone else might inherit if you fail. Take care."
"Hannah, may you never need my help!" Janet hissed, her voice laced with threat.
"Likewise," Hannah responded.
Janet's agitation contrasted sharply with Hannah's composure. "Just wait and see!" she seethed, convinced Hannah would regret this day.
Janet rose to leave, only to be illuminated by a spotlight, shared with Hannah. Preoccupied with their argument, Janet hadn't noticed the show's progress. But she instantly composed herself. A graceful smile touched her lips as she saw Gia, Celina's Asian market CEO and a major shareholder, approaching from the stage. Gia also managed the American market; an audience with her was rare. Even during negotiations with Cooper Group, only Gia's assistant had been present. Gia only typically appeared at product launches, often inviting a guest onstage at the end. Janet felt fortunate.
Years ago, at a Celina launch, the brand's lead designer had discovered her, leading to a modeling contract. She became the Northfield market spokesperson and the brand's top model, only to resign to focus on her family business. The Burkes had a rule: inheritors had to fight for their place. Her departure stunned Celina, though negotiations for her return had failed. Now, two years later, she believed Celina wanted her back, evidenced by the CEO's approach. Janet considered a return, contingent upon Celina establishing a retail store in her mall.
With pride, Janet extended her hand. But Gia walked straight past her to Hannah, a smile on her face as she greeted her. Hannah, unsurprised and composed, returned the smile.
Infuriated, Janet watched Hannah speak with Gia, then remove her black overcoat. A gasp rippled through the hall as Hannah's evening gown was revealed—a tube dress that showcased her figure beautifully. The fair skin of her neck and shoulders glittered under the spotlight, the puff-formed hemline accentuating her curves. The dress, adorned with colored diamond chips, was breathtaking; a galaxy of color draped against her fair skin.