Nala, adorned with delicate makeup, answered with a poised smile, âHeâs in the restroom.
Iâm waiting for him.
â
Lucinda gave a relaxed nod and suggested, âMiss Diaz, how about sitting down and chatting with me?â
âIâd be delighted.
â
Lucinda shifted aside, and Nala gracefully took her seat.
They remained a noticeable distance apart.
This sense of distance between them wouldnât go away.
A minute passed by.
The silence was finally broken when Nala took the lead and began to speak.
âMiss Simmons, your collaboration with DoWeier Group means that your business can now expand into international markets.
Congratulations!â
Lucinda gazed at her lovely visage and replied in a composed manner, âI appreciate it.
â
Nala expressed her disappointment, saying, âItâs such a shame.
Your idea of expanding into the international market with DoWeier Groupâs assistance may not work out.
â
Lucinda narrowed her eyes attentively, carefully analyzing the look on Nalaâs face.
âWhat are you implying?â
Nala smiled faintly, her eyes carrying remorse as she explained, âLast night, I discussed with Danilo about DoWeier Groupâs project bid.
He understood how hard I had worked on it, but it seemed like you managed to secure it through some connections.
He expressed sympathy for me and offered to assist me in regaining the project.
â
âRegain the project?â Lucinda chuckled sarcastically.
âDid he promise you this after a few drinks in bed? Iâve revised my business plan numerous times and pulled all-nighters for it.
If I hadnât abstained from the open bidding, you wouldnât have had a shot.
â
She was consistently thorough in her work and had confidence in her skills and professional expertise.
Even without connections, she was confident that her business plan alone would secure the project.
Nala noticed the self-assured demeanor Lucinda radiated.
She sighed, âYouâre truly captivating when youâre self-assured.
However, itâs important to recognize that in this country, the Simmons and Payne families donât hold the ultimate sway.
Thereâs always someone more influential.
â
Lucinda fixed her gaze on Nala, sensing a familiar air about her.
âMiss Diaz, upon our first encounter, you reminded me of someone from my past.
â
Nalaâs eyes sparkled with curiosity, âOh? Who might that be?â
âMy sister.
â Lucinda spoke casually, yet her gaze remained locked on Nala.
A hint of astonishment crossed Nalaâs face.
âReally? It was intriguing to hear you find a semblance between us.
â
Lucinda scoffed, âBut I have no fondness for her.
She is just an illegitimate daughter of my father, harboring illusions of taking my place.
How laughable!â
Nalaâs initial amusement faded, her eyes moistening.
âAre you trying to u