?Chapter 528:


    Selina’s voice was filled with an irrepressible sense of victory. This was an opportunity she had diligently worked towards, and securing Katelyn’s cooperation would open the door to vast resources. Inparison, relinquishing the castle seemed like a minor sacrifice.


    In high society, everyone understood that connections far outweighed the value of money. Money was merely static, but connections had the potential to create greater wealth.


    Katelyn reclined in her chair, eyeing Selina with deep suspicion. She had naturallye to distrust the aristocracy. Whether it was Elora or Annie, both had shown themselves to be self-indulg


    ent and impulsive.


    “What do you really want?” Katelyn inquired.


    Selina offered a slight smile, her tone rxed as she responded, “Since you’re hesitant to relinquish the assets under the castle, I’ve devised an alternate route for us.”


    She moved closer, her gaze intense as she looked into Katelyn’s eyes. “Believe me, this deal won’t put you at a disadvantage, and it’s your only shot.”


    “I’m not interested in dealing with those so-called nobles anymore,” Katelyn responded firmly.


    “Also, stop emphasizing only what you can offer. Remember, you need the support of Adams Group just as much to stay where you are. This isn’t just about what we gain.”


    Though their coboration should have been fair and straightforward, Selina’s remarks always hinted at an underlying need. This feeling of constantly being manipted into concessions was grating on Katelyn.


    Looking at it another way, if Adams Group wasn’t targeting the international market, their hugely sessful domestic campaign would have solidified their position in the jewelry industry. However, Vincent’s ambition had always been to elevate his brand to a global standard.


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    Suddenly, Selina’s expression grew cold, her disdain apparent as she lightly tapped her fingers on the table.


    “I need to stress that this is your final opportunity. If you decline, the next time we negotiate, you’ll be negotiating away the castle.”


    The threat in Selina’s voice was clear and undeniable.


    Katelyn, however, remainedposed.


    “I’m just a designer.” She paused before continuing. “Miss Hathaway, it would be better if you discussed this cooperation with Mr. Adams himself.”


    She stood up, offering Selina a steady look before walking away.


    Selina hadid out two conditions in exchange for ess to the overseas market. While surrendering the castle was one option, the alternative—simply introducing her to a royal in exchange for significant resources—seemed far too favorable to be credible.


    Katelyn was skeptical of such seemingly fortuitous offers. She was wary of the enticing surface benefits, sensing deeper pitfalls beneath them.


    As Katelyn exited the cafe, her departure left Selina seething.


    Clutching her coffee cup, frustration contorted Selina’s face.


    “That idiot, passing up such an opportunity! Now how will I keep my promise?”


    Selina bit her lip, regretting her hasty agreement to the deal without considering Katelyn might decline. The royal had given her a two-day ultimatum, and she had to bring Katelyn along, no matter what.<fn5496> For more chapters visit ?ovelFind</fn5496>


    Katelyn caught a taxi back to the hospital. Instead of entering Vincent’s ward, she peered through the slightly open door, watching Vincent lying peacefully with his eyes closed.


    Having experienced numerous life-and-death situations together, she felt the remnants of their once ambiguous connection.


    She had been ready to open up, but Vincent’s unresolved engagement felt like an invisible chain choking her. Her only option was to maintain her distance.


    Lost in her thoughts about whaty ahead, Katelyn didn’t notice a nurse approaching swiftly. A sharp, cold needle glinted briefly as it passed by. By the time Katelyn realized what was happening and tried to react, it was toote.


    The nurse had already administered arge dose of a chilling substance through the needle.


    “Who are you…”


    Katelyn’sst words trailed off as her body slumped to the ground, ovee by the sudden injection.


    The nurse skillfully caught her, swiftly moving Katelyn out of the hospital in silence, ensuring no one was disturbed.


    Upon regaining consciousness, Katelyn found herself enveloped inplete darkness.


    Then, abruptly, the sound of footsteps approached from outside, culminating in the sharp click of a light switch. Instantly, blinding lights filled the room, startling Katelyn’s eyes.


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