Chapter 41 Ethan didnt respond, frowning as if he was hesitating. Joyce pouted, urging him. Dad, come on, say yes. Im telling you, Thea is an incredible partner, you wont regret it. You dont even trust me? Ethan smiled wryly but softened a little. Lets move this somewhere else and talk it over. Theas eyes lit up. She flashed a bright smile at Nicolas and winked, lowering her voice. Dont worry. Ill make sure Ethan agrees this time. Nicolas didnt really react, but the corners of his lips lifted ever so slightly. The negotiation went smoothly. Whatever questions Ethan raised, Thea had quick, well-prepared answers. For potential issues, she even had risk mitigation plans ready Ethan was super impressed. Then he said. Hendrix, I admit judged too quickly based on looks, and I listened to some nonsense from others. I hope you dont take it to heart. Rowland is indeed outstanding. I hope we can work together again. With the deal between the Virtuex Group and Aurelia University finalized, Thea finally breathed a sigh of relief. You handled this well, Nicolas said, his tone flat. Hearing this. Thea was genuinely happy. Even though it was just a casual remark, Nicolas rarely praised anyone. Thea looked at him expectantly, asking, Mr. Hendrix, does this mean I get a bonus for this project? You short on cash? Nicolas raised an eyebrow. Thea stood firm and replied, Who doesnt want money? Thea hadnt taken a dime from the Rowland family since she was 18. All these years, shed been living off her salary. Thea had come to realize one thing: instead of slaving away for someone else, why not become a boss? Only by becoming stronger could she avoid being controlled by others. Tll give you a three percent commission, Nicolas said. Theas grin widened. And she said, Honestly, Mr. Hendrix, youre the most considerate boss Ive ever had. Truly a kind- hearted entrepreneur Nicolas chuckled softly but didnt reply. Meanwhile, Joyce, sitting in the passenger seat, suddenly thought of something and asked, Dad, youre never one to judge people by their looks. So why did you refuse the partnership after just one glance at Thea today? Ethan sighed softly, replying, Someone told me about what she done in the Rowlatid funily and at Avon Ventures. If she really is that way, partnering with her would bring a lot of risk Joyce chuckled. Looks like a lot of people dont like her. But Dad, shes really not the person they make her out to be. Ethan nodded. I didnt take the time to understand her better. Almost made a mistake Suddenly, Fahans phone buzzed, and it was his assistant calling asking if they should help with the PR situation since Aurelia University had a stake in the matter. 50 Sat, Oct 26 ti Chapter 41 68% Given that Aurelia University had been gaining more students in recent years, largely thanks to Emmalie. Ethan hesitated. With SAT just around the corner, any scandal around Emmalie could be costly. Joyce listened quietly, then let out a cold laugh. Someone who stabs her own sister in the back, how decent can her character be? If this is coming out now, who knows what else will surface later? Shes practically a ticking time bomb Hearing this. Ethan said seriously, Tell Emmalies team they dont need to involve her in Aurelia University anymore. The assistant was surprised but agreed to handle it. The Virtues Group threw a celebration for Theas success. Truthfully, Thea wasnt too keen on going. After days of running around, all she wanted was a good rest. But their enthusiasm made it hard to refuse. Naturally. Nicolas-wouldnt attend such gatherings. Thea dressed simply and went alone. After dinner, the group moved to a bar As Thea mulled over excuses to leave early, the couch beside her sank as Liam sat down.