Chapter 243 Victor's sharp, jet-black eyes barely flickered in Abbott's direction-a glance so indifferent it was almost dismissive.
Yet that single look hit Abbott like a wall of pressure, leaving him feeling strangely small. Instinctively, he straightened his spine, searching for words to explain himself, but Victor was already striding away with cold, measured steps, not sparing him even a backward glance.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtIn that moment, Abbott felt like he was nothing more than an afterthought, someone utterly insignificant. Since taking over as managing director of the design firm, it had been a long tsince anyone had made Abbott feel so thoroughly beneath them-like a king gazing down from a distant throne.
His brow furrowed, and a storm of indignation churned in his chest, burning hotter than before.
His assistant approached, voice tentative. "Mr. Beaumont?" "Get out of my sight!" Abbott snapped. "So the golden boy thinks he's untouchable? Victor only has people tiptoe around him because of that privileged background. Strip that away-he wouldn't be half the man I am!" The assistant quickly chimed in, eager to please. "Absolutely, Mr. Beaumont. If you'd had even half of Victor's family connections, you'd be running this city by now." Abbott's gaze bored into the space where Victor had disappeared. "That's why I have to get stronger. I'll crush anyone who tries to stand in my way." Meanwhile, Wendy was practically bouncing with excitement as she walked down the hallway.
"Isadora, you're incredible! This is the biggest contract I've landed since joining Seafarer Designs. Wait-Rowena, why the long face?" Rowena stopped, turning to face Isadora. She hesitated, searching for words, then finally spoke, her voice strained. "Isadora, I don't think I can work on the Horizon Architects project after all." Isadora hadn't even had a chance to respond before Wendy exploded.
"Rowena, what did you just say? You know how hard Isadora fought for this project! Now that we've finally won the bid, how can you just back out like it's nothing?" Isadora studied Rowena carefully. Ever since Rowena had cback from the restroom, something seemed off. "Rowena, what's going on?" Rowena pressed her lips together, clearly struggling.
"I'm sorry, Isadora. I know how much this means to you, but I have my reasons." Wendy's frustration boiled over. "Rowena, this isn't fair. After everything we've put into this, you just walk away?" Rowena's eyes shimmered with tears. Clenching her fists, she spun around and ran down the hall.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmIsadora's worry deepened. Rowena's sudden decision to quit the Horizon Architects project meant something serious must have happened.
Without hesitation, Isadora hurried after her, catching up and grabbing Rowena's arm before she could escape. "Rowena, do you considera friend?" Rowena's voice trembled. "Of course, Isadora. You're one of my dearest friends." Isadora's brow furrowed. Her tone was steady and resolute. "Then tellthe truth. Why are you backing out? If you have a good reason, I'll support you, no questions asked. But if you can't giveone, then I'm sorry- Seafarer Designs isn't a one-woman show." Rowena turned away, unable to meet Isadora's gaze. "Please, just let it go." "Is it Abbott? Did he say something to you?"
At the mention of Abbott's name, Rowena's eyes darted@way, panid flickering across her face. Isadora narrowed her eyes. "So it is him." "Isadora, I—" Rowena faltered.
Isadora's voice softened, but her words were firm. "Rowena, I don't know what Abbott said to you but I do know this: even if you walk away from Horizon Architects, what's to stop him from doing it again on the next project? He'll just keep finding ways to control you." Rowena's eyes dropped, conflicted.
She knew Isadora was right. If she never stood up for herself, that yile man would keep blackmailing her with those photos, trapping her forever.