?Chapter 1713:


    Whenever Jordy managed to turn a profit, he made sure the whole world knew. His constant self-promotion gave everyone the impression that he was a brilliant investor. The truth was, he just knew how to polish his image.


    On the phone, Jordy’s tone was unusually soft. “Sandra, I’d like to see you. I miss you.”


    Lately, he had been growing more open with his affection toward Sandra, calling her often and speaking tenderly. But Sandra remembered her mother’s warning well—she deserved someone better.


    “I’m sorry, Mr. Barton. I’ve been really busy these days, and I don’t have time to meet.” Sandra had refused his pursuits with grace more than once.


    Still, Jordy pretended not to notice her indifference and continued to pursue her with unwavering patience.


    He was determined, willing to do whatever it took to climb the socialdder through the Harper family. Brenna was far beyond his reach, but Sandra—sweet, insecure, and eager to prove herself—still offered him an opportunity.


    “Listen, Sandra. I didn’t expect this investment to end up like this. I can’t let you take the loss. I’ll let you withdraw and return every cent to you. When would be a convenient time for us to meet and discuss this matter? It’s quite a substantial amount,” he said.


    That made Sandra pause. The thought of recovering her losses stirred a spark of hope. After a brief hesitation, she said, “Alright. How about tomorrow noon?”


    Her heart lifted at the idea of getting her money back. The disappointment she’d been carrying for weeks seemed to dissolve in an instant.


    For a brief moment, the thought of dating Jordy surfaced in her mind. If someone better came alongter, she could always end things with him then.


    Yes, that was a practical n.


    Still, she made up her mind never to invest with Jordy again.


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    If she ever chose to invest, it would be alongside Brenna. But maybe she just wasn’t meant for business; managing her money carefully might be the wiser choice.


    Sandra had learned her lesson the hard way. She promised herself to stay away from any more risky ventures from now on. One loss was enough for her already.


    When Sandra returned to the dining room, she turned to Brenna. “Brenna, when will your jade mine with Mr. Mitchell begin operating? Do you think it’ll be a worthwhile investment?”


    Brenna assumed Sandra was considering investing. She replied, “It’s still early. We need to apply for mining rights first and purchase the entire mountain area. The paperwork alone will take several months—probably around six.”


    “I see. Well, congrattions,” Sandra said with a polite smile.


    She thought about it briefly but quickly decided against investing. She had to be more careful with her money now.


    Brenna was a little surprised that Sandra didn’t say anything about investing in the project. Perhaps she was just short on funds after her recent loss.


    In the weeks that followed, Sandra kept to herself, focusing on her stores. Though she often came home looking anxious and tired, everyone had grown used to it.


    Brenna thought that as long as Sandra didn’t upset her mother, she wouldn’t have any issues with her.


    By noon the next day, Sandra arrived at an elegant restaurant. Jordy was already there, sitting by the window, showing no sign of impatience. His only concern was that she might note.


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