Chapter 147

The McKinney Group’s commercial street, once unnoticed, suddenly sprang up overnight. Meanwhile, chaos brewed at the Nichols Group. An emergency meeting convened, and the atmosphere in the boardroom was tense.

“Mr. Nichols, this commercial street was nothing short of a surprise. Someone clearly aimed to sabotage us,” one director stated. Another added, “Yeah, everyone knows our mall, a year in the making, is about to open. We’ve spent a fortune on promotions, but now this McKinney Group beat us to it.” A third chimed in, “Numerous merchants have signed contracts with them. This could cost us billions.”

The directors debated fervently. In the seat of honor, Juan rubbed his temples. “Enough!” he commanded, silencing the room. “Do you know who’s the owner of the McKinney Group?” he asked.

Joe responded, “The owner is elusive. We’ve investigated but found nothing. However, this street was once part of Melody’s auctioned sewage area.”

The revelation stunned everyone. “Is this true?” one director asked. Another exclaimed, “Mr. Nichols, you can’t let her ruin our efforts!”

Juan, annoyed by the uproar, banged the table. “From what I know, Debra sold this land long ago. She has no connection to this commercial street.” The faint hope that flickered in the boardroom was extinguished. Thinking of Debra, Juan sighed. “Meeting adjourned.”

The directors reluctantly left the room.

“Sir, the principal called. Miss Miles’ graduate studies are settled,” Joe said hesitantly. “She wants to invite you to dinner.”

Juan ignored the invitation. “And Debra?”

“Madam… she seems busy with her internship.”

“Internship?”

“It’s a school project. Graduate students intern for a month and then write a thesis.”

“Which company is she interning at?”

Joe hesitated. “Um…” He couldn’t bring himself to say it was any company other than the Nichols Group. In the past three months, Debra had been cold, showing no intention of reconciliation.

“Contact the principal. Arrange for Debra to intern here.”

“But Madam may not agree.”

Juan glanced at Joe, who immediately lowered his head.

“Then place her in a company cooperating with us. I want Debra within my sight.”

“Will do,” Joe agreed reluctantly, feeling a headache coming on.

Erica slammed the table. “Come to my company!”

Randy slammed back. “No! Mine!”

They locked eyes, sparks of rivalry igniting. After three seconds, Randy backed down and turned to Marion. “What do you think? Which company would be better for Debra?”