Chapter 135

Andrew dismissed them dismissively. “I simply don’t want useless people interfering with our partnership. Ms. Stevens, don’t forget that I control half of this project.”

Irene and Leroy fumed but remained silent. They had hoped to profit from the project through Christina, but Andrew's opposition forced a retreat.

“Mr. Lloyd, rest assured my mother and brother won’t receive any special treatment on the South City project,” Christina stated firmly. “I know how to separate business from personal matters! Though I must say, your narrow-mindedness is quite disappointing.” She entered the office, her expression cold.

Irene smirked. “Andrew, Christie is my daughter and Leroy’s sister. An outsider like you can never compete with family, so give it up!”

Andrew remained unfazed, smiling. “I finally understand why Christina can be so foolish sometimes—it runs in the family. You’re all cut from the same cloth.”

Irene and Leroy flushed with rage. Irene hissed, “I can’t believe this loser dares to insult us! I’m not done with him.” She was about to explode, but Andrew ignored her and entered the office.

Inside, Conan Huxley of Thrive Enterprise, a heavyset man with five bodyguards, lounged on the sofa, smoking. Christina entered, immediately encountering the thick, smoky air. Despite her disgust, she maintained her composure.

“Welcome, Ms. Stevens. Please, have a seat,” Conan grinned.

“Mr. Huxley, before we begin, could you please take your feet off the desk?” Christina said coldly.

The large mole on Conan’s mouth twitched as he forced a smile. “What’s this? Ms. Stevens, do you think I’m not worthy of your time? If that’s the case, we might as well cancel this meeting.”

Before Christina could respond, Leroy angrily charged forward. “Who do you think you are to talk to my sister like that? If you don’t want to negotiate, then get out!”

Conan stood, his face menacing. “You little punk! Who are you to tell me what to do? Listen closely: Thrive Enterprise controls all the materials in Jayrodale. With your attitude, this project might as well be dead in the water.”

Christina quickly intervened as Conan and his bodyguards prepared to react. “Mr. Huxley, please forgive my brother’s rudeness. He doesn’t know better. Please sit down. We can discuss everything.”

After temporarily calming Conan, Christina turned to Leroy with an icy glare. “Leroy, leave now or get out.”

“Christie, this piece of trash acts like we’re begging him,” Leroy protested indignantly. “I won’t stroke his ego!”

Andrew shook his head. With Leroy’s temperament, it was only a matter of time before he caused serious trouble.