Chapter 42
Thinking back to how Kristina had stood up to protect Trenton at the last press conference, Belinda felt her heart swell with pride.
This girl was incredibly thoughtful. Today, she had chosen to step back and let Trenton shine, showing her support in a way that only added to his brilliance.
What a wonderful daughter–in–law she had!
Meanwhile, Kristina and Trenton were still at the charity organization.
Yosef’s cousin had already been apprehended by the bodyguards. Kristina wasn’t about to let him off the hook easily; she commanded a thorough interrogation. This guy surely knew something, or he wouldn’t have been snooping around.
As the reporters began to leave, Caroline, who hadn’t achieved much, slinked away in defeat. Kristina watched her retreating figure with a smirk of satisfaction.
Turning back, her face lit up with a radiant smile as she gently cupped Trenton’s face in her hands. “You did a good job today! You were so incredibly handsome!”
For once, Trenton’s smile lit up his features like a child who had been waiting for praise. He leaned in closer, looking hopeful. “So, can I get a reward? Maybe a kiss?”
His eyes sparkled with excitement, like an eager puppy wagging its tail.
Without hesitation, Kristina leaned in and kissed him softly on the forehead. In response, Trenton playfully nudged his head against her cheek.
Watching this charming side of him was absolutely delightful. Kristina couldn’t resist reaching out to ruffle his soft hair.
The atmosphere within the charity was cozy and harmonious, but Caroline was a bundle of anxiety. She quickly dialed Elaine’s number. “This is bad, Elaine! Trenton wants to terminate our partnership! If my dad and grandpa find out, I’m toast! You have to help me!”
Caroline had no idea how serious the situation was; she didn’t even know her grandfather had already received the termination paperwork.
On the other end, Elaine’s tone was surprisingly relaxed. “Don’t worry, Caroline. Trenton can’t make that decision alone. Big deals like this usually go through a rigorous discussion among shareholders. Unless your family breached the contract first, it’s not as dire as it sounds. You’ll be fine.”
After over ten years as partners, and being one of the leading beverage manufacturers in the country, they couldn’t just end the partnership on a whim.
Caroline, completely unaware of business matters and fully trusting Elaine, felt a sense of reli
reassurance..
ash over her at such
But as soon as she got home, a loud slap rang out against Caroline’s face.
“You ungrateful girl! Look at the mess you’ve made!” Hendrix’s face was stormy with anger as he waved the termination papers in a furious hand.
The fact that the agreement had already been delivered meant there was no turning back. Not even Belinda had entertained his pleas.
Caroline’s ears buzzed as disbelief washed over her. ‘Didn’t Elaine say there would be a voting process? How could it be settled so quickly?‘ she thought.
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Chapter 42
“Grandpa, let’s talk to the McClain shareholders. If they’re still willing to work with us, there’s a chance to fix this, Caroline urged. “We’ve been friends for years; they wouldn’t be that cold–hearted. I’ll go to them first thing tomorrow, so please don’t
be mad.”
Hendrix’s expression darkened even further. Her father Alfred, who looked equally frustrated, shouted, “How could I have raised such a clueless girl? We’re supposed to be teaming up with the McClains, not making enemies
If Caroline did go to talk to the shareholders, it would be like throwing down a gauntlet against Trenton. That would be downright reckless.
Hendrix furrowed his brow, glaring at his granddaughter. “You’re staying home tonight to think about what you’ve done. Tomorrow, you’re personally apologizing to Trenton and Kristina. You must get them to forgive you”
Caroline shouted in protest, “I’ll apologize to Trenton, but not to Kristina!”
A
