Chapter 12

Andrew intentionally left a clue for Jessica to mistake his bluster as a ploy to trap her. He knew Jessica always conducted business cautiously, and a normal indemnity in the contract would at most put TMO in jeopardy, not destroy The Matthews. But if indemnity rose to tenfold, The Matthews would be doomed. Once The Matthews fell, Jessica would have no choice but to become a plaything in Andrew’s hands. Meanwhile, Jessica had managed to get through to the contact person on the phone, not realizing that Andrew had sneakily sent that contact a message to take her call. After hanging up, Jessica regained her confidence.

“Heh, Andrew, you think you can play these games with me? Childish much?” Jessica approached the podium, took the microphone, and assured the crowd, “Ladies and gentlemen, if today TMO fails to sign with Healthy Land, we will pay everyone tenfold the breach of contract penalty. Please be patient; the signing ceremony and press conference will proceed as planned!” No sooner had Jessica concluded than the women in qipao shouted in unison: “Welcome Anthony Stephens!” Anthony had arrived, accompanied by Healthy Land’s staff, including Brandon Grant, the liaison with Jessica. Jessica quickly went to meet them: “Brandon, where is Master Joshua?” “Master Joshua was called away unexpectedly and won’t attend today’s signing ceremony. All of Healthy Land’s affairs at Delvin Hub are managed by Master Joshua’s leading disciple, Mr. Anthony.” Jessica eagerly extended her hand: “Mr. Anthony, it’s a pleasure to meet you!” Anthony bypassed her, heading straight to Andrew. “Mr. Andrew, with Healthy Land and ArmCorp’s strategic cooperation, we must work hand-in-hand to conquer Delvin Hub’s market!” The previously calm venue erupted into chaos. Jessica was stunned. “Brandon, didn’t you just say on the phone that today’s signing ceremony would have no issues?” “Of course, there are no issues! But I never said we’d sign with TMO.” Jessica, her eyes reddening with anger but restraining her tears, had no idea how to deal with the situation.

Daniel, seemingly carefree, suddenly received a text message. “Master, where are you? I have to rush back to Washington this afternoon because of a family emergency. I’d like to have lunch with you at noon.” “The International Conference Center.” “Master, please wait for me. I’ll be there in half an hour.” As Daniel was busy texting, an irate Brittany approached him: “What are you doing with your phone at this time?” “It’s 10:30. There’s still half an hour until the signing ceremony.” Brittany, frustrated, stammered for words: “If it weren’t for you, this nobody announcing the tenfold indemnity, Jessica wouldn’t be in this mess.” Andrew approached, hands in pockets, smirking triumphantly at Jessica. “Ten times the indemnity would bankrupt The Matthews even if they sold all their companies, wouldn’t it? If you want to save The Matthews now, there’s only one way: marry me!” Jessica disapproved of Andrew’s actions but knew he genuinely liked her, having pursued her persistently over the years. Now cornered and with no options left, Jessica could only agree to Andrew to save TMO and preserve The Matthews. A tear slipped down her cheek.

Was this her fate? Suddenly, someone shouted. “Master Joshua is here.” Anthony looked up, and indeed, Joshua had arrived. “Mr. Andrew, Master Joshua’s personal presence at the signing ceremony is a significant endorsement for your family. Your family’s fortune is about to change! Let’s go greet him!” Anthony led Andrew quickly towards Joshua, introducing: “Master, this is Mr. Andrew, president of ArmCorp.” “Master Joshua, a pleasure to meet you!” Andrew reached out his trembling hand, excited to shake hands with Joshua to solidify the bond between The Armstrongs and The Grants. But Joshua bypassed him, rushing towards Daniel like an excitable child. Andrew’s hand, shaking with anticipation, was left awkwardly suspended in mid-air. “Master Daniel!”