Chapter 505

Victoria Ashford stumbled sideways.

Her face burned with humiliation as she realized she'd lost control of her temper. She immediately looked to Penelope for support.

Penelope wasn't pleased with her outburst. "How can Wellington Group's scale and financial strength possibly compare to Ashford Group?" she snapped. "You shouldn't fall for their scheme, Ms. Sinclair."

She knew perfectly well why Ashford Group maintained its dominant position in New York - Blackwood Industries' backing ensured that.

Even with Wellington Group's recent expansion, Ashford Group remained firmly entrenched. Blackwood Industries would never allow their partners to bow to competitors.

If Ashford Group could secure this partnership with Sterling Enterprises, they'd soar to new heights, leaving Wellington Group in the dust.

But if Evelyn chose to work with their rival instead? The balance of power would shift dangerously.

Victoria forced a conciliatory smile. "I can see Wellington Group's sincerity. Though whether we'll reach an agreement requires further discussion." Her tone turned dismissive. "If you're interested, Ms. Ashford, you're welcome to submit a competing proposal."

Despite her polite words, Evelyn's stance clearly favored Wellington Group.

Penelope, however, misinterpreted this as an opening. She barely contained her frustration as she excused herself. Victoria hesitated, then followed.

Evelyn was preparing to leave when Victoria suddenly reappeared.

"Ms. Sinclair," Victoria began haltingly, her voice trembling. "I've realized my mistakes. Could you... would you consider returning that project you took from Ashford Group?"

The alternative was unthinkable - either Penelope's wrath or returning to her former life of poverty. She couldn't bear being ordinary again.

Evelyn's smile turned icy. "Ms. Ashford, I thought we'd established that your apologies mean nothing to me. This deal serves my company's interests. Wellington Group responded promptly to my overtures - I didn't steal anything from you."

Victoria's shoulders slumped. She looked utterly defeated.

"Please," she begged, tears welling up. "I have no standing in the Ashford family. If they lose this deal because of me, they'll cast me out. Penelope will destroy me..."

She swallowed hard before continuing. "You pitied me once - that's why you helped me get close to Mr. Blackwood, wasn't it?"

Evelyn remained unmoved. Victoria's scheming at the gala had erased any sympathy she might have felt. She wasn't some saint who rescued every unfortunate soul.

Growing impatient, Evelyn's gaze turned arctic. "Very well. I'll consider voiding the contract..."

Victoria's face lit up with desperate hope.

"...if Ashford Group covers triple the penalty plus all associated losses." Evelyn's voice cut like steel. "Can you manage that?"

Victoria turned ashen. Her mouth opened soundlessly.

"The contract value is three hundred million," Evelyn continued coldly. "Surely you don't expect me to sacrifice that for misplaced pity? Feel free to convey my terms to Chairman Ashford or Penelope. I'll await their response."

As Evelyn moved to leave, Victoria collapsed into sobs. "That amount means nothing to you! Why should Ashford Group pay? You're the one who stole it from us! This is all your fault!"