Chapter 26 69 Thea knew how to choose between the fleeting satisfaction of revenge and risking Nicolass wrath. She shot Jake a scornful smirk. Oh really? And can you guarantee you werent with Madelyn yesterday? As expected, Jakes eyes shifted nervously. He quickly tried to explain, Madelyn was upset yesterday, and you werent answering me, so I just- Mr. Hendrix, did you forget that you publicly declared we had nothing to do with each other? Thea cut him off with a I was just angry! Weve had fights like this before. Why are you taking it so seriously? he said matter-of-factly. It was true. In the seven years they were together, theyd broken up and reconciled more times than she could count. Each time, Thea had swallowed her pride, either buying Jake gifts or apologizing first to smooth things over. Well, this time its real Thea said, her patience running thin. She pushed past him, ready to leave. But Jake wasnt done. He grabbed her hand again, his eyes narrowing. Even if thats true, you saw how I just helped you out back there. Well, thanks, Thea replied coolly. Jakes frustration grew, his voice rising. Thea, dont you see? Nicolas is setting you up to fail with this project. Its impossible to close that deal. You should just quit before you waste more time. Thea turned to him, her eyes narrowing. Is that what you think of as a set-up? Seems like your abilities are pretty limited. Hate to break it to you, but I thrive on challenges Jakes face flushed red with embarrassment, and before he could respond, Theas phone buzzed. She glanced at the caller ID, and a small smile played on her lips. Theyre reaching out to ask if Im free for dinner tonight Ignoring Jakes sour expression, she brushed him off and walked away, her mood noticeably lighter. Later, in the restaurants private room, Thea was going over her notes, preparing for the conversation ahead. Suddenly, the door swung open, and a waitress entered, looking slightly impatient. Miss, its past the time you When can we start serving? Thea checked her watch. Let me make a call and check She dialed several times, but there was no a answer. On the sixth try, a cold female voice finally came from the other end of the line. Miss Rowland, right? My apologies, but after reconsideration, our boss has decided its not the right time to proceed with this partnership. If the opportunity arises. in the future, well be in touch. Thea froze, her grip tightening on her phone as the abrupt rejection sank in. There was no room for negotiation, and the sudden change in attitude left her confused. Just an hour ago, they were open to discussing details, which meant the deal wasnt off the table yet. But it had changed so drastically Taking a deep breath, Thea adjusted her tone. Is there an issue with my proposal? Im happy to make adjustments if needed. 15 69% Fri, Oct 25 Chapter 26 Theres no problem at all. Qur boss just doesnt want to work with you anymore. If theres nothing else, please dont contact us again. With that, the woman hung up immediately. The waitress was getting impatient, standing at the door with her arms crossed. Seeing Theas pale and flustered expression, she sneered, Miss, couldnt land the client, huh? Well, look at you. Its no surprise. But can you pull yourself together and get out of here soon? We need this room for other reservations Thea stood, her gaze sharpening as she met the waitresss smug expression. Do you even know my last name? The waitress rolled her eyes, unimpressed. Its Rowland. The same as your boss. Thea took a step closer. Call your manager. The waitresss face paled instantly. This restaurant was owned by the Rowland family, and all the family members were treated as VIPs here, except for Thea. It was no wonder the waitress didnt recognize her. After dealing with the waitress, Thea had no time or mood for self-pity. She rushed to stake out the hotel where the buyer was staying, timing it carefully. Fortunately, her prior interactions with them had been friendly, and she had done her research. She knew their routine. Thea waited for half an hour but still didnt spot the Silvercreek buyer, and her patience was wearing thin. Just then, she spotted a familiar figure the buyers assistant, who had joined her on behalf of the buyer during the mine inspection earlier. Thea quickly approached, slightly out of breath. Excuse me, she said, trying to keep her tone steady. I dont know if I offended your boss somehow, but I wanted to apologize if thats the case. Can you at least tell me why youve decided not to work with me? Her mind raced, running through every possibility. Their initial meetings had gone smoothly, so she needed to know what had caused this sudden change. Unlike their first polite meeting, the assistant now regarded Thea with cold disdain. Miss Rowland, if I were you, I wouldnt bother chasing after reasons. Isnt this just humiliating yourself? Thea felt a pang of unease but forced a polite smile. I understand the cooperation didnt work out, but we routinely conduct feedback surveys with our clients to improve. The assistant sneered, crossing his arms, Feedback? We just hope your company wont send women like you ones with questionable character and hidden agendas to negotiate with us ever again. Thea blinked, stunned. What do you mean? Is there some misunderstanding? Clearly fed up, the assistant raised his voice. At first, I thought you were a capable professional who earned your position through hard work. But it turns out I was wrong. Dont you know what youve done? You seduced your superior, though he had a girlfriend, to get ahead. Now that things arent going smoothly with him, youre trying to hook up with the boss to get back at his girlfriend How can someone be so-shameless? For a moment, Thea was too shocked to respond. Then, a bitter laugh escaped her. Who told you this? Do you just believe whatever rumors you hear and judge people based on that? Do you really think Ive achieved everything through underhanded means? Thea gritted her teeth, her voice tinged with anger. The assistant waved his phone in her face, his expression triumphant. See this? Chat logs, voice recordings, all the proof is right here. Our boss hates homewreckers more than anything. The only reason we havent exposed this yet is because you work for 2/3 SEND GIFT COMMENT 0 11:3