It was nothing more than the Walton Corporation finally looking decent again, and now everyone wanted a piece of the action, clinging to grasp the advantage.
Tessa dered with confidence, “Mom, leave this banquet to me. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure it’s just as well–executed as the ones before.”
Grace smiled warmly. “With a thoughtful daughter like you, what more could I ask for? Just stick to your usual approach. No need to fuss over the details.<b>” </b>
As for those extended rtives, tossing them a few scraps through your fingers was more than enough.
These people were never the type to step up when it mattered–until there was something to gain.
Then suddenly<b>, </b>they’d be the first to rush in.
Tessa nodded and agreed to everything, pushing aside the idea of tattling for now.
She figured it’d be better to bring it all up during the family gathering, in front of everyone at the banquet.
That way<b>, </b>even if Aurora wanted to defend herself, she’d have to think twice–was she really in a position to speak?
So, what if shended two projects?
After pulling something so humiliating, she deserved to face the consequences.
Grace looked into Tessa’s eyes, a flicker of unease stirring in her chest, though she couldn’t quite put her finger on why.
Tessa<b>, </b>on the other hand, was fully confident in her n.
When the time came<b>, </b>she’d make sure Aurora had no chance of recovery.
As for Rachel…
Other than being a bit dim, she was at least easy to manipte.
When the moment came, Rachel would be the perfect knife in Tessa’s hand to eliminate obstacles.
With that thought, Tessa softened her gaze and slipped on a warm<b>, </b>affectionate smile.
She waved to Rachel, beckoning her over.
Rachel eagerly walked up to her.
The <b>two </b>of them soon leaned together<b>, </b>whispering closely<b>, </b>acting like the best of friends.
+25 Bonus
She knew full well that Tessa had no real feelings for Rachel–only maniption.
Their so–called friendship wouldn’t stand a single blow.
Grace, ever gracious, said warmly, “Alright, we old folks are getting on in years. You young people should spend more time together. Don’t disappoint us.
“The future belongs to you. The world is yours.”
She exchanged a meaningful nce with the other partners, all of them full of well–wishes for Aurora and the rest.
Aurora raised her ss with a polite smile. “Madam Grace, you’re too kind. We’re just doing what we should.”
“We’re doing all of this for one reason–to make ourpany better and stronger.”
Grace was moved by Aurora’s words, genuinely believing she made a good point.
If everyone shared Aurora’s mindset, then climbing into the ranks of the top firms wouldn’t just be a dream.
It would only be a matter of time before they reached even greater heights.
With that in mind, Grace’s gaze toward Aurora grew warmer and kinder.
Aurora felt the affection and clearly sensed that Grace was in a good mood today, which was why she even joked around with them.
Aurora chimed in here and there, echoing their sentiments with a few words of her own.
When the conversation turned toward business, she was able to contribute with ease, offering sharp insights that held weight among the others.
Standing in the middle of the crowd, Aurora almost seemed to glow, like a seasoned veteran in the business world.
This scene made the jealousy in Tessa’s heart nearly overflow.
She had nned this banquet down to the finest detail, and yet, somehow, it was Aurora basking in the spotlight. She always had a knack for reaping what others sowed.
The thought made Tessa feel even more bitter.
Her eyes shifted to Rachel, who stood nearby with a ss of red wine.
A new n began to take shape.
D