These days, she could hardly eat or sleep, consumed with thoughts of what kind of woman Neera really was.
During the last guild conference for the district president election, she had wanted to attend, but Avery didnât allow her to go.
Later on, she heard that the woman had become a district president. She was even promoted to the position of ninth elder by Avery despite all opposition.
Listening to all the gossip about that woman in Phison, she was about to be driven mad with anger.
How could someone without any roots or background, an outsider, become a prominent figure in Phison?
She had stolen all the limelight and her cousin away from her.
Itâs all because of that despicable Neera. Sheâs the reason Iâve lost even the slightest hope. I wonât just let her go like thisâ¦
Not long after Avery returned to his study, there was a knock at the door.
He thought it was Irwin. Without even lifting his head, he said, âCome in.â
The door swung open. As footsteps gradually drew nearer, a blend of coffee aroma and a potent perfume scent permeated the air.
Avery sensed something was amiss. Looking up, he saw Phoebe standing in front of the desk, holding a cup of coffee.
With a gentle smile gracing her lips, she placed the coffee cup next to his hand. Leaning forward, she paused deliberately in her movement, the shocking bruise on her neck catching his eye.
Avery then looked away, his gaze devoid of any emotions.
âIs there something you need? Otherwise, get out.â
Phoebeâs smile wavered momentarily but swiftly regained its composure.
âAvery, youâve been busy these past few days. You should take a break, or else your body wonât be able to handle it.â
Avery was getting somewhat impatient. âGet out.â
His indifference, even rejection, left Phoebe feeling extremely unsettled. Yet, she didnât want to give up just like that.
âAveryâ¦â Her smile faded from the corners of her mouth, replaced by a look of grievance. She gently bit her lip, a sight that aroused pity.
âAre you still mad at me? I was just upset earlier, thinking about how hard youâve been working for Neera without getting anything in return. I lost my temper and said too much. Please forgive me, considering that I did it all out of concern for you.â
Avery lifted his head, his tone indifferent as he said, âAre you sure itâs for me? Thereâs no need to play those petty tricks in front of me, Phoebe.â
This single sentence instantly made Phoebeâs heart tighten.
Does hè⦠already know? Did I shoot myself in the foot?
For a moment, her mind was in a bit of turmoil.
âI⦠Avery, youâve misunderstood me. I truly believe that Neera is being very unfair to-â
D âIâve said it before, no one is allowed to talk about Neera. If you utter one more word, youâll be thrown out of the Cox family immediately,â Avery cut her off. He was thoroughly fed up.
Phoebeâs face stiffened. She gritted her teeth, barely managing to suppress the jealousy welling up inside her.
Looks like itâs impossible to tarnish that womanâs reputation in front of Avery. But thatâs okay. I have plenty of ideas.
She swiftly made up her mind and changed the topic.
âAvery, please donât be angry. Iâm not trying to criticize Ms. Garcia. I admit, I did have prejudices against her before. At that time, I didnât understand her and thought she was just using the Cox family.
But today, she came to see you. It must be about reclaiming the Jagger familyâs affairs, right?â
Avery furrowed his brows, his expression still unfriendly, but he refrained from uttering harsh words.
With a stern face, he asked, âWhat else do you want to say?â
Phoebe smiled. âIt seems I was right. Ms. Garcia is indeed here for this matter, isnât she? She wants to help the Cox family, doesnât she?â
As she spoke, she let out a sigh, her face showing a hint of self-reproach.
âIt seems I was really too impulsive and went over the line just now. She came all the way to help, and I said such harsh words. Avery, next time you see Ms. Garcia, please help me apologize to her properly.
Itâs my fault. I hope she wonât be upset with the entire Cox family because of me.â
Avery stared at her for a couple of seconds before he finally said, âShe wonât. Neera is not that petty.â
Phoebe was delighted. âThatâs great. When I get a chance, Iâll invite her for a meal as an apology.â
Avery asked, âIs there anything else?â
âUmâ¦â Phoebe hesitated for a moment. âYes, I was thinking, if the Gordon family is willing to lend a hand to help our family, please donât refuse them. This mission is too dangerous. Iâd be relieved if there were more experts to accompany youâ¦â
âYou donât need to worry about this. Now, get out.â
âAveryâ¦â
Avery said impatiently, âIâve already agreed. Get out.â
âOkay.â
Having achieved her goal, Phoebe no longer disturbed him.
Upon reaching the corridor, she closed the door to the study. Her expression changed in an instant, a triumphant gleam flashing in her eyes.
It would be best if that woman sends out all the experts by her side. When the time comes, itâll be easier for me to make a move.
âWhat are you doing here?â Suddenly, a soft and cute voice rang out, but its tone was anything but soft, carrying a harsh undertone.
Comments(0)
Join the discussion — sign in to leave a comment
Sign In to CommentNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!