Josie’s relationship with the Olsen family was a hard thing to explain.
“I’m Ms. Brandel’s assistant.” Josie thought of a compromise.
“Can an assistant afford Viktor’s latest haute couture?” The other party’s comment was incisive as she scanned her outfit. “As far as I know, the dress you’re wearing hasn’t even been released to the public yet.”
Josie was momentarily speechless, but she quickly regained her composure and explained, “Perhaps my family is well-off?”
It was clear that the other party was interested in Josie. She turned and walked inside. “Come in. I’m quite curious to hear how a well-off young lady like yourself plans to convince me to sign this deal.”
If Josie had known there would be such a mess, she never would have gone there.
The other party set a glass on the table, filling it to the brim with red wine. “My name is Juliette Witherspoon.”
Fortunately, before she arrived, Josie had perused a few pages of the contract. Juliette Witherspoon’s business empire included smart home technology and new energy vehicles, both of which were industry leaders. She was also the only woman on the mainland who had achieved such success in her career by the tender age of thirty.
Despite her trials, she maintained her charm, attracting a multitude of admirers in her private life.
Frankly, Josie held a deep admiration for such women. She took a seat. “Hi, Ms. Witherspoon.”
Juliette gestured with her hand.
“In an era where society is becoming increasingly intelligent, the integration of smart home technology into our lives seems to be a universal trend. However, at present, whole- house intelligence has not yet penetrated the mass market. Ms. Witherspoon, you have great ambitions and must be aware that the class of people who can afford your company’s products is either wealthy or noble. In the entire Wavery, apart from the Olsen family, it seems that no other enterprise can provide you with this level of social circle and resources,” Josie said.
As Juliette propped her chin, listening intently, a smile gradually curved her lips. Clearly, her interest was piqued.
Josie shook her head with a smile. “As far as I know, Ms. Witherspoon, you aspire to be a benchmark in the industry. The rapidly developing Wavery is your primary target. If you don’t make a splash in Wavery, what will your future path look like?”
“Are you threatening me?”
“I’m merely stating the facts,” Josie said, gently swirling the wine in her hand. “To be completely honest, I’m not Laura’s assistant.”
“I saw it coming a long time ago.”
“I worked in interior design, which coincidentally aligned with your industry, Ms. Witherspoon. On this point, I can assure you with my professional expertise, collaborating with the Olsen family is the best choice.”
Juliette’s gaze had shifted to one of admiration as she looked at Josie. Leaning back, she asked, “What’s your name?”
“My surname is Warren, but you can call me Alice.”
“Alice, I should be upfront with you. The contract with Laura has already been settled. Even if you hadn’t brought this up today, I would have signed it.”
Josie was not surprised. She looked out at the clear and bright scenery, a smile gracing her lips. “I know,” she said. “I believe in Laura’s abilities.”
“Then why did you choose to stay?”
“Befriending someone isn’t really a loss, after all.”
The two women shared an unspoken understanding. Moments later, they both broke into knowing smiles and clinked their glasses together.
As Juliette signed her name, Josie finally stood up to leave. The former remained seated, suddenly saying, “I just arrived in Wavery today, and I’m not familiar with this place. If you have time, could you possibly show me around?”
Josie paused momentarily, then quickly strode out, replying over her shoulder, “Depends on my mood!”
Juliette watched her retreating figure and chuckled to herself. This young lady certainly has a unique personality.
This serendipitous encounter had brought Josie a considerable amount of joy. However, it wasn’t long before this pleasant mood had faded away.
“Halt!”
Suddenly, a voice rang out, halting Josie, who was about to step into the elevator.
She slowly turned around, and to her surprise, she saw Zach standing behind her. Behind him, there was a crowd of stylishly dressed men and women, who were clearly his disreputable friends.
