Chapter 98
“Oh, so you two know each other. In that case, I won’t disturb you. Please, take your time catching
up.”
Richard couldn’t get out of there fast enough. The tension was suffocating, and the last thing he needed was Hattie badmouthing him to his wife again.
But Hattie clearly had no intention of letting him off the hook. She stepped in front of him and
launched straight into conversation.
“By the way, I thought I heard something about a business deal? Mr. Hollings, to be frank, this young lady has helped me before. She’s sharp and has excellent instincts to boot. If you’re seriously considering a partnership, I’d consider it a personal favor if you gave her a chance.”
Hattie’s message was subtle, but her intention was clear. She wanted Richard to choose Calista.
Calista was still trying to gather her thoughts when Richard cut in with a practiced excuse.
“You know as well as I do that my company isn’t a one–man show. This will probably need further discussion back at the office.”
“Oh, come on. That’s nothing. If you truly can’t make the call, I’ll have Beatrice decide. It’s not a big deal. I’m sure she’ll agree.”
Hattie had every reason to speak with such confidence.
Years ago, when Beatrice was gravely ill and her life hung by a thread, it was the Lester family who stepped in to help. Hattie herself had played a key role in her recovery, and the bond formed between the two families only deepened over time.
“No… Mrs. Lester, we’ve known each other a long time. There’s no need to be so formal. Since you trust this young lady, I’ll trust your judgment as well. How about… we go ahead and sign a preliminary agreement first?”
Richard was clearly cornered, his voice tight with barely concealed frustration as he was forced to comply.
Calista was still reeling when Hattie had taken the lead and sealed the deal.
“What are you standing there for? Didn’t you bring the contract with you?”
Snapping out of her daze, Calista quickly responded, “Yes, Mrs. Lester. It’s in the private room.”
Prompted by Hattie, Calista hurried off, retrieving the preliminary contract under the watchful eyes of those present.
By the time she returned, Calista had regained her composure, her mind now sharp and focused.
She wasn’t alone, either. Richard’s assistant followed closely behind.
“Mr. Hollings, I heard that your personal seal was with your assistant, so I took the liberty of inviting him over as well.”
Chapter 99
After leaving the nightclub, Calista practically skipped outside, barely able to contain her
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