Chapter 144

Chapter 144:

Sheila’s apparent anxiety provided a bit of amusement for Ashton.

He gently lifted her chin, his voice carrying a hint of challenge. “You don’t really seem ready to cut ties, Sheila. Do you think I’m using your brother to coerce you?”

Sheila felt trapped, unable to resist; her eyes half-closed. She was caught between humiliation and an odd sense of anticipation for what might come next.

With a careful tone, she answered, “Mr. Baldwin, how could I ever think that? Phillip has been a constant source of aggravation, continually provoking your displeasure. His actions could very well lead to the downfall of the Watson family. I refuse to be pulled into the abyss alongside him.”

Ashton’s expression softened into a smile of approval, feeling reassured by her response.

He let go of her chin and handed her the phone.

“If you’re serious about distancing yourself from Phillip, I’d advise you to make it quick. It’s only a matter of time before he brings ruin to your entire family.”

Sheila felt a twinge of disappointment as Ashton released her so abruptly, but she didn’t let it linger. She quickly took her phone, ready to deny Phillip’s earlier request.

Ashton spoke with a calm demeanor. “No need for a lengthy discussion now. Just let him know I am not involved with the Skyline Group. I’m eager to see his next move.”

Sheila felt a shiver when she saw Ashton’s assured smile.

She was relieved she hadn’t opposed Ashton because of Phillip. If she had, she might have found herself in the same situation as Phillip.

Sheila quickly returned to the moment at hand. She knew better than to ignore what Ashton had instructed.

She promptly turned the microphone back on and spoke softly.

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“I have completed an investigation into Ashton’s background. The only connection he has to the Skyline Group involves the provision of the Longevity Pills. We accepted those pills primarily due to the influence of the Campbell family. Beyond that, I found no other connections between him and the Skyline Group. The events at the bidding venue were likely coincidental. No matter his abilities, Ashton could not have manipulated the outcome of the bidding process.”

Phillip had been concerned that Ashton’s significant connections might thwart his plans for retaliation.

Relieved by the results of Sheila’s investigation, Phillip exhaled deeply.

He muttered to himself, “Perhaps I have been giving Ashton too much credit, assuming he was behind every event.”

He had almost forgotten one fact. Someone dismissed from the James family surely couldn’t wield such formidable influence. Before Sheila could conclude, Phillip expressed his gratitude to her. Energized by the news, he quickly left for Emalee’s home. With his worries alleviated, Phillip was determined to outshine Ashton and restore his standing within the James family.

When Phillip arrived at the James family home again, he noticed a shift in their demeanor toward him.

He rang the doorbell persistently until Tristan eventually opened it.

Unlike usual, Emalee’s parents did not come to greet him at the door.

As Phillip entered, he noticed Emalee sitting in the living room, her expression icy as she glared at him without a greeting. Matthew and Miriam were present beside her. They also appeared visibly impatient with him.

Sensing that his presence was not well-received, Phillip’s spirits dropped.

He suspected they were angry with him for previously losing his temper with Emalee and slapping her.

Trying to lighten the mood, he smiled and approached her.

He noticed a faint handprint on her face and, with a tone of fabricated concern, he said, “I’m sorry, Emalee. You know the stress I’ve been under. It got the best of me, and I reacted poorly. I realize now how wrong I was and I’ve come here to apologize. I promise, it won’t happen again.”

Emalee responded with a snort, turned her head away, and continued to ignore him.

Phillip managed a smile and eagerly shared, “Oh, and I have some encouraging news for you. I put considerable effort into uncovering this information. That despicable Ashton has been deceiving everyone. The truth is, he has no affiliation with the Skyline Group whatsoever!”

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