Chapter 10

Across the hall, Lauren beckoned Eunice. "Donate three million dollars in Dr. Lloyd's name," she instructed.

Eunice was astonished. While the Rhodes family possessed considerable wealth, she considered Lauren's extravagance reckless. "Miss, isn't that excessive?"

Lauren smiled haughtily. "What's wrong with donating three million for the man I desire? Christina may not appreciate him, but I'm not foolish enough to let such a treasure slip away."

She held a file detailing Stevens Corporation. In a few short years, the company had transformed from a failing factory into Jayrodale's publicly traded powerhouse, catapulting Christina's net worth to an astounding $150 million. Many aspects of Stevens Corporation's rapid ascent seemed suspicious, as if orchestrated. Its sudden success coincided precisely with Andrew and Christina's three-year relationship. Lauren didn't believe this was coincidental.

Meanwhile, Andrew found a seat. Shawn approached, sneering. "Andrew, you're shameless! You follow Christina like a lost puppy. Everyone here is a big shot donating; what's a penniless gold-digger like you doing here?"

Andrew glanced at Christina, then calmly replied, "Have you always been so condescending? Just because you donate doesn't mean I can't support the orphans."

Shawn scoffed. "Showing up with your measly few bucks is embarrassing. Know your place."

Irene chimed in mockingly, "Shawn, don't waste your time. Once Christina buys this property, we'll evict him immediately!"

Christina frowned at Andrew, shaking her head. She'd thought he possessed some self-respect, but his presence here revealed a new low. It diminished her respect for him further.

The fundraising concluded. The beaming host announced the donations:

"Jayrodale's Cantrell family, $1.2 million! Comet Enterprise, $1.5 million! Gardenscape Real Estate, $4.5 million!"

Murmurs rippled through the guests. The earlier amounts seemed mere warm-ups. The host announced mysteriously, "Stevens Corporation, donating... $12 million!"

Gasps filled the room. This was an unrestricted donation, a gift to the orphanage; the buyer would still pay for the property.

Shawn and Irene preened, basking in admiring glances. Even Christina smiled, confident in their victory.

The host continued, "And now, another generous donor: Ms. Lauren Rhodes of Rhodes Corporation, $12 million!"

Another wave of excitement swept the room. Lauren had matched Christina's donation, promising an exciting showdown.

Lauren frowned at Christina, surprised by Stevens Corporation's boldness. Christina, in turn, recognized the Rhodes family as a formidable force.

"Both Ms. Stevens and Ms. Rhodes have donated equally. Who gets purchase rights?" the host asked.

Shawn stood, smoothing his suit. "Ladies and gentlemen, please calm down. While Rhodes and Stevens donated equally, the Fields family supports Stevens Corporation. Therefore, Stevens Corporation should develop the orphanage property!"

The Rhodes Corporation representatives tensed. Murmurs arose among the guests:

"Shawn's being Christina's lapdog!" "Christina had an ace up her sleeve! With the Fields family, Rhodes Corporation stands no chance!" "It's a done deal! The orphanage would be foolish not to choose Stevens and secure the Fields family's favor."

Eunice's face fell. "Miss, our donation wasn't enough."

Lauren remained calm. "No need to panic. Twelve million is the ceiling; any higher, the property wouldn't be worth it." She smiled mischievously. "But I won't let Christina win. Not her."

Eunice sighed. "Miss, you're not fighting Christina over Dr. Lloyd, are you? Is he worth this?"

Before Lauren could answer, the host's voice boomed, "Our final donor is Mr. Andrew Lloyd. Mr. Lloyd's donation is... $15 million!"

Silence, then chaos.

"Fifteen million? Who is this guy?" "Andrew Lloyd? Never heard of him!"

Lauren turned to Eunice. "What's happening? Didn't I tell you to arrange three million?"

Eunice looked bewildered. "Miss, I did. Three million in Mr. Lloyd's name."

A subordinate reported, "Miss, the orphanage returned the three million. Dr. Lloyd requested it."

Lauren's composure shattered as she looked at Andrew, realizing his personal $15 million donation.

At the Stevens Corporation table, Christina was equally stunned. "Andrew? Fifteen million? How?" she muttered, disbelief etched on her face.