Chapter 27: Chapter 27

Alyssa burst into laughter. Mia had no choice but to laugh too. Jasper frowned.

“I’ll take that, but there’s no need to feel shy. I can make more of this painting. You can have it.”

Alyssa’s words carried hints of mockery.

Upon hearing that, Jasper’s expression went stiff as he balled his fists.

“You went through so much to meet me. I bet it’s not for some paintings. Let’s cut to the chase.” She didn’t have time to beat around the bush with him.

“Honestly, I’m here for the issue regarding Gardner Group. I hope you can stop oppressing them.

There’s room for negotiations.” Jasper’s tone was low, but his gaze was formidable. “After all, it will only do you good in Solana City if you work with us.”

“Do you call this an oppression, Mr. Jasper?” Alyssa was at a loss for words.

“I think it is an action of justice to reveal the underhanded sellers. It will be a wake–up call to our peers so that no one will repeat the mistakes that we did. They won’t purchase products of bad quality and be left with no place to complain.”

“There could be production issues, as even an established car company can face a recall crisis due to certain problems.” Jasper was taking the Gardners‘ side.

He added, “You can return the products or request a refund. Releasing an article that could damage their reputation seems unnecessary. There’s no need to release that article to tarnish their reputation. If you continuously pressurize a medium–sized enterprise until its demise, it may discourage other companies in Solana City from collaborating with yours.”

Alyssa narrowed her eyes dangerously. She crushed the chocolate in her hands.

In other words, Jasper was issuing her a threat. If the issue continued, the Beckett Group would interfere with the Taylor Group’s development in Solana City.

Alyssa felt furious and thought, “How dare he threaten me! Does he think I’m a coward?”

“I’m moved by how much you’re sacrificing for your lover. But we need to put personal feelings aside.

Despite any setbacks in meeting me, your unwavering commitment is indeed admirable. But I must say, even if you own Solana City, your love won’t stop me from standing firm, Alyssa replied.

Jasper was equally shocked and angry. Yet, he could not refute her words. He had never personally cleaned up such a mess before. But he was doing it right now solely for Liana’s sake.

Alyssa relished the sight of his stiff expression displayed on the monitor.

“Since things have gone this far, there’s little left to discuss between us. Now that I know your intentions, I’ll see you at the negotiation table next time. I hope you’ll bear with me when that time comes, even if my words might offend you.

Jasper rose from his seat.

Despite things not unfolding as he had hoped, his ego prevented any signs of defeat from showing. He maintained a resolute stance, akin to a soldier refusing to surrender.

Just as he turned around to leave, a voice resounded behind him.

“I was wrong, Ms. Alyssa! I made the wrong call in the heat of the moment! Please Please spare my life. If words get out, I will never be able to stand on my own feet in Solana City! Elysian Home approached me with an idea to make quick money. It was all Mr. Gardner’s idea!

I thought the mattresses were all the same. I had no idea it was a set–up!”

Jasper looked back in surprise. His mind was reeling from the shocking revelation.

After playing the recording, Alyssa crossed her legs. She relished the sight of his crestfallen face.

“If it had been a small venture, I might have been inclined to lend a hand. But if it’s a malicious one that gets in my way, I’ll lead the charge to dismantle it, no matter the cost.” Alyssa smiled. (1)

She continued, “I’ll keep that in mind, Mr. Jasper. Further discussion is pointless. We shall meet again someday.”

Jasper left the office in a daze. His temples throbbed from the shocking discovery. him only to notice his pale complexion.

“Nothing. We can talk after we’re back home.” Jasper replied. He marched forward with heavy steps.

His head was hurting, but that did not stop him from replaying Alyssa’s words.

The moment the recording played, he felt like everything he had been doing was a joke.

He had initially believed Gardner Group was innocent. He assumed the Taylor Group was trying to undermine his company after the wedding announcement.

But he was wrong. He had it coming!

Jasper loosened his tie, yet he still couldn’t catch his breath. Suddenly, he heard familiar footsteps behind him.

The click–clacking sound of high heels sounded steady yet graceful.

“Alice?” Jasper quickly looked back at the empty corridor.