Chapter 1847: Jibe

That night, Shawn received a phone call from his family, enduring a half-hour torrent of scolding. Coralie wore a grim expression; Shawn's mismanagement meant she would return north and face those elderly relatives again. The northern climate was too dry, deleteriously affecting her skin. Nevertheless, her mood brightened; she had successfully arranged a meeting with Jonathan. She'd used the car damage as an excuse, but he'd initially refused. After some coaxing, he agreed to a meal as an apology. Through persistent questioning of Frieda, Coralie better understood Jonathan's rigid personality, which she found attractive.

When Shawn left his room, Frieda quickly offered him coffee, hesitant to offer comfort, fearing it might upset him further.

“Shawn, it’s just a few hundred million. They needn't be so angry. I don't understand their fuss over such a small amount. Competing with the Farwell Group will involve losses. Didn't you cause Lucian losses recently? This proves he's a formidable opponent.”

Coralie’s words resonated, calming Shawn. His tense expression eased.

“You’re right! Lucian is clearly targeting us. Then let's stop being secretive and confront him directly. But why are those Epean clients so resistant? Are they truly loyal to Lucian, or does he have leverage over them?”

Shawn had lost without understanding why. Coralie pondered but offered no answer. Frieda hesitated. Noticing this, Shawn smiled faintly. “If you have something to say, please do. You likely know more than we do.”

Frieda softly explained, “My brother told me Lucian personally cultivated these Epean clients. They probably reported to him immediately after we contacted them. I suspect Mr. Paolo’s visit was to locate us.”

Coralie narrowed her eyes. “So, Mr. Paolo feigned lechery to lower our guard while Lucian arranged for the others to cooperate in swindling our goods. Three clients—enough to seem credible, yet few enough to avoid suspicion and discourage us.”

Shawn considered his misjudgment. He gritted his teeth. “Ultimately, we underestimated Lucian.”

“Indeed. Lucian's methods are complex—sincere, domineering, cunning—making him unpredictable,” Frieda observed, noting Shawn's regained composure.

Coralie sneered. “Shawn, he truly is your greatest rival. You must work harder to avoid such humiliating defeats.”

Shawn shot a cold glance at his sister. “That’s obvious. I’ll take responsibility. As for you, be cautious with Jonathan. Avoid revealing anything. Frieda mentioned her brother has little interest in women, so don't be overconfident.”

The siblings exchanged lighthearted barbs. Frieda realized she needed time to adapt; her arguments with her brother usually escalated quickly.