Chapter 132
Chapter 132:
Phillip and Fraser had just finished hatching their plan when they rejoined the James family group, seamlessly blending in as if they had been there all along. Together, they made their way into the venue.
After clearing the security checkpoint, Phillip and Emalee walked into the bustling hall.
Phillip’s gaze swept across the hall until he caught sight of Ashton tucked away in a corner.
A sly smirk spread across Phillip’s face as he confidently strolled over to where Ashton stood.
Ashton tried his best to ignore Phillip, but having him hover around was becoming increasingly bothersome, like an annoying fly that wouldn’t leave.
Phillip’s reappearance clearly annoyed Ashton. He couldn’t help but show his irritation as he confronted Phillip. “Are you done following me around all day?”
Phillip, unbothered, flashed a grin and casually took a seat beside Ashton, his eyes twinkling with mischief.
“It seems all the other family representatives are mingling, but you’re here all by yourself. Thought I’d keep you company. No need to be so tense,” he said, his voice dripping with feigned concern.
He then leaned closer, his tone shifting slightly. “I get it. You’re here by connections, after all. Seeing that you’re outmatched must be unsettling. Maybe it’s time for you to go? Otherwise, when we win the bid and our futures take off, you’d really feel out of place if you stuck around.”
Ashton sensed that Phillip was up to something this time, yet he had no patience for his nonsense.
He fixed a steely gaze on Phillip and scoffed, “You’re quite confident. But what happens if you don’t secure any of the projects?”
L𝗎tєѕτ ϲh𝒶ρτєrs ιn g𝓪l𝗇ovєl𝑆.𝒸оm
Phillip arched an eyebrow, boasting, “Just for your information, my sister is the VP at Skyline Group. With that inside track, we’re guaranteed at least a share of the spoils. Even a small slice will elevate the Watson and James families to new heights. You, on the other hand, a good-for-nothing freeloader, will only be able to watch us climb. Soon, we might even challenge the Campbell family that supports you. I wonder how you’ll face me then!”
Ashton couldn’t help but find Phillip’s words amusing.
If Sheila knew her brother was speaking like this, she’d likely be livid—only to end up trying to appease him with her charm once more.
Seeing Phillip’s unwavering confidence, Ashton eased up.
Why would he waste energy on a fool?
He offered a slight smile and replied, “Since you’re so sure of yourself, I’m eager to see you win a part of this deal. It’ll be an educational experience for me.”
Phillip had grown quite familiar with Ashton after their numerous encounters, and he felt he had a good grasp on him. Therefore, Ashton’s response hardly came as a shock.
Everything was unfolding exactly according to Phillip’s scheme. At the perfect moment, Phillip flicked a subtle nod toward Fraser.
He then turned to Ashton with a mischievous grin and challenged, “You seem skeptical. How about we make it interesting with a bet?”
The realization hit Ashton suddenly. It all made sense now.
Phillip was trying to stir him up, aiming to lure him into a trap. With a knowing smile, Ashton responded, “Alright, what are you proposing?”
Phillip, prepared for this moment, shot back eagerly, “It’s pretty simple. You believe I’m just bluffing, don’t you? Let’s bet on that! If I manage to secure even the smallest part of the project by any means necessary, you’ll have to make quite the exit—roll right out of this venue in front of everyone. Are you up for it?”
.
.
.