Chapter 272

Andrew responded indifferently, “Twenty percent of Stevens Corporation’s shares are supposed to be my reward?”

“You seem to have quite an inflated opinion of yourself, Ms. Stevens,” he added sarcastically.

Douglas quickly interjected, “Take it, Andy. You helped us out, and this is what you deserve.”

“Sir, I don’t need the money,” Andrew said with a smile. “While twenty percent of Stevens Corporation is substantial, it makes no difference to me whether I have it or not.”

Christina took a deep breath and replied coldly, “If you don’t want it, there’s nothing more to say. I gave you an opportunity, Andrew, but you couldn’t seize it.” She felt uncomfortable, knowing his rejection stemmed from underestimating Stevens Corporation. Little did he know how significantly the company had transformed. To her, he remained shortsighted, lacking true vision.

Among the Stevens family, only Douglas held a different perspective. He realized they had missed a chance to align with a true powerhouse. He had intended to bind Stevens Corporation and Andrew together through the shares—he would have readily offered fifty percent instead of twenty. Unfortunately, Andrew had declined. Still unwilling to give up, Douglas abruptly changed the subject, asking, “So, Andy, are you seeing anyone these days?”

At this question, Christina froze mid-meal, turning to look at Andrew.

Meeting her gaze, Andrew replied casually, “No. As you know, I’m too laid-back for most women to consider dating.”

“That’s nonsense,” Douglas said seriously. “You’ve got both character and capability. Christie also mentioned you’ve been promoted to deputy chief at Jayrodale General Hospital.”

“Yes. Someone recognized my talent, and I got a promotion,” Andrew admitted.

Douglas nodded thoughtfully. “You’re already a deputy chief at such a young age—in my opinion, that’s just as impressive as Christie’s position as CEO.”

“Let me make a suggestion, Andy—and forgive me for being presumptuous,” Douglas continued. “Why don’t you and Christie try to reconnect? Maybe rekindle what you once had?”

Andrew froze, caught off guard.

Christina protested, “Grandpa, have you had too much to drink? Andrew and I broke up long ago. Some things can’t be fixed once they’re broken.”

Irene chimed in disapprovingly, “That’s right! Christie’s net worth keeps growing. Now that she’s free from the Weller family’s interference, she’s about to become Jayrodale’s most eligible CEO. You can’t just play matchmaker without considering whether a mere deputy chief is worthy of Christie’s status—they’re worlds apart!”

Douglas quivered with anger. “Foolish woman, hold your tongue! You look down on Andy for being just a deputy chief? Tell me, who saved the Stevens family from crisis today?”

Irene fell silent with a cold snort, her disapproval remaining evident.

Douglas turned to Christina, saying, “While you may run Stevens Corporation, you control the Stevens family. If you still respect me as your grandfather, you’ll follow my wishes!”

He continued, “Mark my words—even if you turn Stevens Corporation into a top 500 company worldwide, it will mean nothing if you let Andrew slip away.”

Christina argued, “Grandpa, you’re clearly favoring Andrew. Besides, you can’t force matters of the heart.”

Douglas retorted, “So, you’re still going to be stubborn as ever?”

Christina turned away and stated firmly, “When I chose to break up with Andrew, I decided never to look back.”

“Mr. Stevens Senior, please don’t pressure her,” Andrew interjected with a smile. “Besides, I agree that we’re not compatible. With her current achievements, I’m truly not worthy of her.”

“Andrew, you don’t need to use subtle jabs to provoke Grandpa,” Christina responded coldly.