Chapter 299
“I can’t believe a powerful woman like Madam Vostokoff would lose her head over a worthless man. How disappointing,” Aspen muttered, finally suppressing her humiliation and anger.
“Come on, Christie. If she doesn’t recognize our value, we’ll go to Mr. Giordano in the Northern District,” she declared.
“Aspen, there are many ways to expand our family’s business into Jayrodale,” Christina said worriedly. “I don’t think you need to deal with underground figures like them. Their methods are often questionable, and I’m concerned.”
Aspen interrupted with a dismissive laugh. “I know what you’re worried about, Christie. You’re afraid I’m too naive and might get played by them, right? Don’t underestimate me. Just watch—soon, the two of us will make such a name for ourselves in Jayrodale that no one will dare look down on us.”
Christina frowned slightly; her instincts told her her cousin was being too hasty. Nonetheless, given Aspen’s headstrong nature, even more assertive than most men, she decided to keep her thoughts to herself.
“Christie, you saw how your ex has won Natasha’s favor,” Aspen remarked with a mocking smile.
Christina’s voice turned cold. “He’s made his choices. It has nothing to do with me.”
Aspen said in a playful tone, “The underground forces in Jayrodale are shifting. Mr. Giordano from the Northern District and Mr. Moore from Hidden Dragons will emerge victorious. Madam Vostokoff will regret rejecting our alliance, and when she falls, Andrew will suffer the consequences.”
Christina hesitated before advising, “Aspen, I really think you should avoid getting involved with people like Mr. Giordano.”
Aspen waved her hand confidently. “Relax, Christie. Before I even set foot in Jayrodale, I studied everything about its power dynamics. Mr. Giordano and the Northern District are poised to dominate, becoming the kings of the city’s underworld. If we align with him now, our family will have a foothold here in no time.”
Meanwhile, in the car, Natasha let out a scoff. “Aspen’s got some reputation and influence. Too bad she overrates herself. I can’t stand those arrogant women who think they’re better than everyone else.”
Andrew glanced at her and said, “Aspen represents the Bridgefields’ Stevens family. Turning her down is one thing, but outright insulting her… West End just lost a potentially valuable client.”
Natasha snorted. “West End isn’t going to crumble over some girl from Bridgefields. Besides, she had the nerve to badmouth my… darling. I had to teach her a lesson.”
Andrew’s expression turned serious. “Natasha, I am not your ‘darling.’ You’re a widow, and comments like that could damage my reputation.”
Natasha raised an eyebrow and smirked mischievously. “Oh, I want everyone to know you’re involved with me. You’ve been rejecting me repeatedly, but once the rumors spread, let’s see how you handle it.”
Andrew’s face darkened slightly, but he chose not to argue with her. After all, while Natasha could be overbearing, she had never truly crossed the line with him. He wanted to place her… but could not find a good enough reason to make a move.
Before long, the car came to a stop, and Andrew stepped out, looking at an upscale hotel before him.