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Chapter_27
Chapter 27
Alyssa’s laughter filled the room, a sound so infectious that Mia couldn’t help but join in. But Jasper, ever the composed figure, wore a frown, his gaze sharp and unwavering.
“I’ll take that, but don’t feel shy about it. I can always make more of this painting for you to keep,” Alyssa said, her tone tinged with playful mockery.
Jasper’s expression darkened. His fists clenched, the muscles in his jaw tightening at her words.
“Let’s get to the point,” Alyssa continued, not giving him the chance to play his usual games. “I didn’t come all this way to talk about paintings.”
Jasper raised an eyebrow, his voice turning low and serious. “I came to discuss the matter of Gardner Group. You need to stop putting them under pressure. There’s room for negotiation here. It will only benefit you in the long run if you collaborate with us.”
Alyssa didn’t hesitate, her words sharp as ever. “Do you really think I’m oppressing them, Mr. Jasper?” she retorted, her gaze unwavering.
“What I’m doing is simply exposing the underhanded sellers. It’s about revealing the truth to our peers, making sure they don’t fall for the same mistakes. They’ll be more cautious in their choices. There’s nothing wrong with that.”
Jasper’s voice took on a protective tone. “Even established companies face crises, you know? What happened to Gardner Group could happen to anyone. You can return the products or offer a refund. But dragging their name through the mud with a damaging article? That’s unnecessary. Pressuring a medium-sized company like this could have far-reaching consequences. It might discourage others in Solana City from working with you.”
Alyssa’s eyes narrowed, her hand crushing the chocolate in her grasp. The implication of Jasper’s words wasn’t lost on her. He was essentially warning her—if she continued this path, the Beckett Group would pull their support from the Taylor Group in Solana City.
Fury surged through her. “How dare he threaten me?” she thought. “Does he think I’m some sort of coward?”
With a faint smile, she leaned back in her chair. “You’re so brave, Jasper. Sacrificing so much for someone you care about,” she mocked. “But let’s set aside personal feelings, shall we? No matter what you throw at me, even if you own Solana City, you can’t stop me from standing my ground.”
Jasper’s expression faltered, a mix of shock and anger crossing his face. He had never been in this situation before, but for Liana’s sake, he was determined to fight.
Alyssa relished the moment, her gaze lingering on the screen that displayed his uncharacteristic discomfort.
“I think we’re done here,” she said coolly. “I understand your intentions now. We’ll meet at the negotiation table next time. Prepare yourself for that moment, Jasper. And don’t be too upset when my words offend you.”
Jasper stood up, the weight of the conversation heavy in the air. His ego wouldn’t allow him to show any sign of defeat, but deep down, he knew this wasn’t going the way he had hoped.
As he turned to leave, a voice called out behind him.
“I was wrong, Ms. Alyssa! I made a mistake in the heat of the moment! Please, spare me. If this gets out, I’ll never survive in Solana City! It was Elysian Home’s idea to make quick money. Mr. Gardner’s the one who came up with the plan! I thought all the mattresses were the same. I had no idea it was a set-up!”
Jasper froze, his mind racing with disbelief at the sudden confession.
Alyssa, unfazed, played the recording of the conversation, crossing her legs as she leaned back in her chair. She watched as Jasper’s expression fell.
“If it had been a small business venture, maybe I would have helped,” Alyssa said, a slight smile playing on her lips. “But this? If it’s an intentional plot, I’ll destroy it, no matter the cost.”
Her gaze hardened. “I’ll keep your confession in mind, Mr. Jasper. But further discussion? It’s pointless. We’ll meet again. Soon.”
Jasper walked out of the office in a daze, his thoughts spinning. He felt sick to his stomach, realizing how wrong he had been. All the plans he had believed in suddenly seemed like a cruel joke.
The moment the recording played, everything fell into place. His mind reeled, processing the truth. He had trusted Gardner Group, assumed the Taylor Group was after him because of the wedding. But he had been wrong—this was a mess he had brought upon himself.
He loosened his tie, trying to steady his breath, but the weight of it all was too much.
Just as he thought he couldn’t handle it anymore, he heard the distinct sound of heels clicking behind him. The footsteps were steady, but there was something almost elegant about them.
“Alice?” he murmured, spinning around.
But the corridor behind him was empty.