Ch. 1641..1650

Chapter 1641

Chapter 1641

Simon appeared disgruntled, yet he still showed respect to the guests. He nodded in acknowledgment.

"I'm sorry, Simon." Graham spoke up. "Sophia was living abroad and is not very proficient in the language. She might have used the wrong words unintentionally."

Simon expressed his concern, "Si, I've watched you grow. You've never disappointed your parents. How did you—"

Graham interrupted, "Alright, Simon. I'll handle it. You should take a rest."

Simon could only exit the room.

Just as Sophia was about to voice her complaint, Graham looked at her sternly. "Simon is the longest-serving butler in this house, the one my dad trusts the most. You shouldn't have spoken to him like that." Sophia retorted, "Are you blaming me now?" She looked pitiful and burst into tears. "I knew you'd eventually side with your parents and exclude me and our son! We're not welcome in this house. I'm leaving with James!"

"Sophia..."

Graham quickly intervened, his anger dissipating. He comforted and reassured her until she stopped crying.

He then sat at the dining table, placing James on his lap and feeding him like a loving father.

Sophia couldn't help but smile-her dramatic outburst had achieved its intended effect.

She had no intention of leaving the Bayers. After all, why would she leave when she had secured her place in this wealthy family?

She stood behind him and hugged him, rubbing her cheek against his. "Graham, the company in Armania... Is it a lost cause?"

He paused and appeared troubled.

"Did you talk to your father? Can the headquarters provide financial support?" she asked.

"My dad doesn't think it's a good idea," he replied as he had been advised. "But my mom believes that the overseas market isn't our strong suit. It's best to take this opportunity to withdraw completely..." Sophia widened her eyes. "What? How can we do that?!"

This wasn't what she had in mind. She had hoped that Graham would cancel the wedding, allowing them to acquire some money and return to Armania for a life of luxury.

Now, it seemed that Kelly posed a significant obstacle to her plans.

"Graham, if the headquarters can't support us, we'll have to find our own solution!"

He was taken aback. "What do you mean?"

She smiled and leaned in to whisper, "Do you know Fat Lawler? I've been talking to him recently. He's in Cumulus City and is auctioning off two mining sites." "Mining sites?"

"Yes! Minerals are currently selling at a low price. Can't we profit substantially if we buy low and sell high? I've heard that some Centrolis companies are interested too. "Don't worry. I'll continue negotiating with Fat Lawler to secure the best possible deal. We won't miss this opportunity!"

Chapter 1642

Chapter 1642

"But..." Graham was hesitating.

He had also heard about the two mining sites. They offered excellent conditions, and the rumored price was quite attractive. However, his many years of industry experience had taught him that the more attractive the price, the more trouble lurked behind it.

"Do you not trust me, my darling?" Sophia shook him gently. "Remember all the things I've managed for you back in Armania? Do you not trust my abilities?"

"Of course I do," he assured, patting the back of her hand and offering her a gentle smile. She had always been his capable right-hand person, and he was drawn to her for her skills.

"But there's so much money involved in this. We don't know Fat Lawler at all..."

"We're getting to know him!" She painted an exciting picture of their future. "Let's see what your parents have to say when we make a fortune!"

Seeing his lack of response, she leaned in closer and playfully toyed with the button on his collar. "Graham, don't you want to be with me forever? If we achieve something great that impresses your parents, they won't stand in our way... I truly want to be with you. That's why I'm working so hard to earn their approval!"

Graham was touched. He lifted his arms and embraced her, gently running his fingers through her hair.

He had wanted to be with her from the moment he first laid eyes on her. Not only was she beautiful, but he also admired her determination and strength at work. She was a far cry from someone like Maisie, who he didn't find as intriguing.

Sophia filled a void in his life, and he was willing to be a father to her child.

"Okay, I promise," he said softly. "As long as you believe it's achievable, I'll wholeheartedly support you. We'll accomplish something that will earn my parents' respect!"

Sophia joyfully planted a kiss on his cheek, and he hugged her passionately.

James took the opportunity to slip between them with a happy smile.

From a distance, they resembled a joyful family of three.

Simon shook his head as he gazed out from the living room. The maids around him observed them in disdain.

"So shameless... Is Mr. Graham under some kind of spell? He doesn't want Ms. Maisie, but he's taken by this vixen!"

"Alright!" Simon quickly stopped their gossip. "Get back to your duties instead of chattering."

Upset, they each went their separate ways.

In truth, Simon missed that kind-hearted girl. Graham might never find someone as lovely as her again.

Even though Maisie's fever had gone away two days ago, she still had no appetite.

Daniel tried having the hotel serve her different food each day, but no matter what they brought, she would only take a few bites before stopping.

He felt concerned and asked if there was something specific she wanted to eat. She thought for a moment, then smiled and said, "I'd love some bubble tea."

He was taken aback.

He remembered the first time they went out together when they had just started dating.

Back then.

He wanted to buy her something, but she complained that everything was too expensive, and she didn't want anything.

He had never shopped with women before and found her behavior troublesome. He had been under the impression that all women were materialistic and couldn't resist shopping at the mall.

She sensed his impatience and shyly asked, as they passed by a bubble tea shop, "Could you get me some bubble tea, Daniel?"

For a brief moment, he was stunned, but he joined the line with her. When they reached the counter, she pointed to the least expensive drink on the menu, and her smile charmed him.

He felt a pang of sadness. He ordered the most expensive drink on the menu, even though the price difference was minimal.

Daniel recalled how happy she had looked when she drank the bubble tea. It had been her first time trying it.

"What's bothering you, Mr. Quimby?"

Maisie's voice brought him back to reality.

He smiled as he returned to the present. Placing a pillow behind her back, he said, "The bubble tea they serve here is artificial. It's not good for you."

"But... I really want to drink it!" she said weakly. "I don't know why I've been missing the taste of bubble tea these days."

"Okay," he replied with alluring eyes. "Wait for me. I'll make one for you soon."

He had decided to make the bubble tea himself. Before making it, he called the hotel chef.

Drenched in sweat, the chef imparted all his knowledge to teach him the steps.

However, Daniel didn't get the ratio right. It was quite thick. He added two ice cubes-it seemed to taste lighter now.

After working for a while, he finally walked out of the kitchen with a cup of bubble tea. He smiled apologetically as he handed it to Maisie.

"It might not taste great, but I used the best ingredients. There's nothing artificial in there, so feel free to enjoy it!"

She smiled and indulged in the tea. After finishing it, she looked up at him, and there seemed to be stars twinkling in her eyes.

She pursed her lips and asked carefully. "Mr. Quimby, do you like me?"

He was stunned, and his heart raced.

Maisie's cheeks flushed as she held her head down, speaking softly. "I just thought you're too good to me. I'd feel it no matter how slow I am... Of course, I apologize if I misunderstood. I..."

"You didn't misunderstand!" he blurted out.

She was stunned and rubbed her hands against the cup. "T-Then I'll go on."

Daniel's back stiffened, and blood rushed to his head. He froze in place as if he were waiting for a verdict.

Maisie said, "To be honest, although my feelings for Graham weren't as strong, it hurt me terribly. I seem to have lost my confidence, and I don't know what I've done wrong. I think I'll need some time to realign with myself.

"Mr. Quimby, I can't start a new relationship during this period. D-Do you understand what I'm saying?"

Chapter 1643

Chapter 1643

Although Daniel was disappointed, he smiled at her and nodded before saying, "I understand."

Maisie's cheeks blushed, her heart racing as their eyes locked. She quickly lowered her head to sip her bubble tea, concealing the turmoil in her heart. "Thanks for your understanding, Mr. Quimby," she said.

"Don't worry about it," he reassured gently. "It's my business if I like you. You don't have to be burdened by it. But I have a request..."

"What is it?" she asked.

"Please don't reject me while you take time to heal." He chuckled. "You must give me a chance to be good to you."

She shyly pursed her lips, and a sense of romance filled the air.

However, she couldn't help but wonder how to explain this man repeatedly appearing in her dreams.

"Mr. Quimby..." She finally asked, "Did we know each other in the past?"

He was taken aback.

Maisie scratched her head, troubled. "I feel a sense of familiarity with you. Maybe you didn't know I was very sick, and I forgot everything when I recovered. If you knew me, could you be honest with me? My family won't tell me about my past, and I don't know why they act like that."

Daniel felt a squeeze in his heart and forced a smile.

After a long silence, he finally said, "We didn't know each other."

Maisie was stunned, watching him in silence.

"Perhaps it's the unique connection between people that makes you feel familiar," he said, his voice hoarse and slow. "Maybe there wasn't much in your past that your family didn't tell you about. It's all in the past now. You don't have to cling to it.

"Starting a new life might be a good thing, right, Maisie? I'm willing to embark on this new life with you, and I assure you that you'll never be wronged again."

Maisie found herself drawn to his voice as if it held an irresistible charm.

He patted her shoulder, smiled, and went to clean the living room, something he had been doing lately. He couldn't cook, but he could clean.

Maisie observed him, feeling a sense of security in his tall, regular attire. As she watched, she suddenly felt dizzy, her temples throbbing, and blurry images rushed into her head. She couldn't see them clearly, but they all seemed to involve Daniel.

She frowned, gripping the blanket, her head clouded with doubts.

Sophia brought Graham to meet Fat Lawler at the underground casino. Graham appeared anxious as Fat Lawler's men led them in, his reluctance evident in his slow steps.

On the other hand, Sophia was excited and had even picked a gift for Fat Lawler.

"What's bothering you, Graham?" she whispered, leaning in close. "Don't look so gloomy. We're here for a business discussion. Everyone profits when things fall into place."

They were ushered into the VIP room, where they were served beverages and asked to wait.

"I have a bad feeling about this," Graham confessed, his suspicions growing. "Why would Fat Lawler meet with us when we have no apparent connection? Why is he interested in doing business with us, especially in the underworld? And..."

Sophia frowned. "What are you getting at? Do you think he's meeting us for nothing? I've put in a lot of effort to make this happen. I've spoken with him multiple times.

"Besides, what about the underworld? Isn't Nicholas Thompson part of it? You've been close to him since childhood. Why are you afraid of Fat Lawler but not your dad's friend?"

"I—"

Before he could respond, laughter echoed from outside. The VIP room's door swung open, revealing a middle-aged man in traditional attire.

Sophia and Graham quickly stood up, and the man's sharp gaze fixed on them with a cryptic smirk.

"Mr. Bayer?" he inquired.

Graham nodded respectfully. "Yes, Fat Lawler."

"It's an honor to have you at our underground casino."

Fat Lawler exuded charisma with a cold aura, and Graham, worldly as he was, was cautious in his presence.

"I overheard you mention Nic." Fat Lawler chuckled. "I know him, but I was nothing when he was the boss. Hahaha!"

Seizing the opportunity to flatter him, Sophia said, "Nic retired a long time ago. People now bow only to you when your name is mentioned!"

"Is that so?"

"Absolutely!"

Fat Lawler put down his glass and remarked, "Ms. Sophia, you're not from the underworld. How would you know if people bow to me?"

Sophia was at a loss and glanced at Graham for help. He signaled her to remain silent, aware that excessive talking could be a mistake when dealing with an expert like Fat Lawler.

Graham smiled courteously and handed Fat Lawler the gift. "This is a small token from us. It may not be much, but we hope you like it."

Fat Lawler examined the gift and recognized its value. He squinted and smiled. "Let's not beat around the bush. I assume you're here for my two mining sites in Cumulus City, am I right?" "Yes," Graham replied without hesitation. "We hope to secure the bid. We'll express our gratitude properly when the deal is finalized."

"Do you lack the funds, Mr. Bayer?"

Graham bit his lip and replied, "I just want to make my parents proud."

"That's a noble goal!" Fat Lawler chuckled again. "With your family's power, purchasing the mining sites should be a breeze."

Graham's eyes lit up. "Sir, are you willing to disclose the price?"

Fat Lawler peered at him and revealed, "750,000,000 dollars for the two mining sites. What do you think, Mr. Bayer?"

Chapter 1644

Chapter 1644

Graham was shocked, and the corner of his lip twitched.

"750,000,000 dollars?" he mumbled.

It might be tough to gather even 75,000,000 dollars in working capital with the subsidiary company he was managing.

If he needed 750,000,000 dollars, he would have to apply with the headquarters, and the application would then be discussed with the board of directors.

The board was filled with old people who were of a similar age to his father, and they were quite conservative. They would definitely decline the 750,000,000 dollars...

"Mr. Bayer?" Fat Lawler sneered. "What? The high and mighty prince of the Bayers can't even come up with this small amount of money?"

Sophia quickly elbowed and signaled him.

She then told Fat Lawler with a smile, "That's not it! Since you've named your price, Graham will definitely take it!"

"Really?" Fat Lawler raised his brows. "Giving you the price is my way of showing my sincerity, but I haven't seen yours!"

"Fat Lawler-"

She wanted to say more, but Graham stopped her.

He took a deep breath. At the same time, he was ready to face the worst-case scenario.

"Of course, I'm sincere about this, Fat Lawler. However, the subsidiary company I'm currently managing is in a bad place. If I need to come up with 750,000,000 dollars, my father will definitely be alerted. I'm afraid by then..."

"So that's what you're worried about!" Fat Lawler said while smiling. "Let's just be direct, Mr. Bayer. Do you not have the money?"

Graham looked terrible and nodded with great difficulty.

"And you don't want your father to find out about this?"

"Yes."

"That's easy!" Fat Lawler puffed on his cigar, and his subordinate handed Graham a business card as the smoke lingered around him.

Graham was stunned. "What's this?"

"Since you don't have the money, you can get a loan from the bank." Fat Lawler squinted. "I'm close with this person. He is a bigshot at the bank and will definitely help you financially."

Sophia was overjoyed when she heard this and kept thanking him, but Graham had a bad feeling.

Could Fat Lawler provide everything he was lacking? There was no such thing as a free lunch!

However, Sophia advised him. "Fat Lawler is from the underworld. People like him care most about loyalty! Also, this is a legitimate bank, not a loan shark. What are you still worried about?"

Graham hesitated and fell into silence.

"Don't you want to show your parents what you've got, gain the power to speak, and marry me?" She grabbed his arm and leaned her head on his shoulder. "Graham, this is the best opportunity for us. We can be together forever as soon as we do this!"

He eventually nodded and hugged her. He wanted to succeed quickly, too. After all, the losses he caused the subsidiary company could not be solved with forged accounting-he would have to fill them in with real money.

A few days later, Maisie returned to the kindergarten after recovering.

Daniel smiled happily when she came to work because he could finally let her sit in the passenger's seat and send her to the entrance without hiding.

He waved and watched her go in.

He didn't need to make excuses like picking up Persephone, treating all the teachers at school to snacks, or taking every kid in the school to the theme park just to see her anymore.

Now, he could simply share an afternoon tea with her, take her to the bustling night market after work, gaze at the stars on the mountain, and enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel at the theme park.

He even told Persephone openly, "Yes, I'm courting Maisie. Do you think you can help me?"

She pouted and stared at him unwillingly. "Granduncle, you used to buy me ice cream and pizza. Why isn't there anything now? You even asked me to help you now..."

Daniel couldn't help but laugh and carried her to the pizza place.

"You're smiling even more now, granduncle!" she remarked.

"Yes, people smile when they're happy."

"Are you happy because Ms. Maisie isn't marrying the prince anymore?" she asked.

"Eat your pizza, you little rascal!"

They ate happily, giggling.

At that moment, someone called him. It was Ruth.

He smiled and said, "What's up, Ruth?"

"Nothing much... I just want to ask if you're considering contributing to the education industry in Centrolis," Ruth said.

"Ruth, are you still expecting me to invest in your kindergarten?" Daniel asked.

"Look at you. You're saying it as if I'm greedy for your money!" She cleared her throat and pretended to be casual as she spoke. "Forget it. I won't bug you about the investment again... Oh, Ms. Squire got into trouble today. Don't take it to heart! I'm hanging up."

"Hey, wait!"

It was as she had expected that worked on him.

He frowned and asked with his deep voice. "What happened?"

"Well... Someone did something behind her back with the outstanding teacher nomination. Okay, okay. That's all from my side. Pretend I've never said anything!"

Ruth was well-versed in her tricks to have hung up directly. Daniel was worried now.

He wanted to ask Maisie himself but knew she would always tolerate things and wouldn't tell him what exactly happened. He thought about it and called Ruth.

The tables had turned this time. He said, "Ruth, I've actually been putting the investment proposal together!"

Ruth smiled, thinking, 'Who is Maisie exactly to make this cold and arrogant man surrender so easily?'

"Okay, I'll stop messing with you," she said. "I don't really need your money, but I think you can protect Ms. Squire better if you have something to do with the school." "What exactly happened?" he pressed on.

"Our school has one quota for the outstanding teacher nomination of Centrolis this year. I nominated Maisie. I didn't do that because of you, but because she's really outstanding. The kids love her. She's a valuable teacher, which is why I nominated her.

"However... There are many aspects to consider. My opinion is only one of them, and they need the opinions of her colleagues. Something happened with that... A teacher in the school questioned that she has only been teaching for a short time, so she has no right to be nominated."

Daniel's eyes dimmed. "Who is that?"

"She's connected to the Bayers," Ruth revealed. "Her name's Maeve Campbell, and she's an experienced teacher in her 40s. I heard she used to be the Bayer children's private tutor 20 years ago!"

Chapter 1646

Chapter 1646

Maisie remembered Graham's exceptional work capabilities, but he fell short in the realm of human interaction.

For instance, even though she was his ex-fiancee, he never truly respected her. He had even admitted he had agreed to marry her because her family was considered normal and that she was too accommodating. He had even suggested that if he had a mistress in the future, she couldn't do anything about it....

So, was he the classic case of high IQ and low EQ?

This was why they said a child's first teacher was crucial-it could shape their entire life.

Graham's first teacher, however, only emphasized studying for good grades, neglecting the fact that life was about more than just academics and work.

As Maisie pondered this, she couldn't help but feel sorry for him. She managed a forced smile, which caught Maeve's attention.

Maeve asked with widened eyes, "What's so funny?"

Maisie quickly replied, "I wasn't laughing at anything."

She concealed her smile, her gaze turning cold. "I just think you should reconsider your teaching philosophy to avoid poisoning more young minds." Maeve retorted, "You-"

Maisie continued earnestly. "I'm not merely playing with the children. I want them to experience everything in the world, not just stick to books. I aim to provide them with a memorable and joyful childhood. After all, they only have one.

"I want them to understand that life is an exciting journey where we need to engage our hearts. If all we care about is getting good grades, the future will be bleak."

Maeve panted, her lips trembling.

With over 20 years of teaching experience, many prestigious families had entrusted their children to her. Now, she was being challenged and lectured by a newcomer. It was hard to accept. However, Ruth broke the silence with applause before Maeve could respond.

"Well said!" Ruth exclaimed with a smile. "Teaching children to experience life and enabling them to grow happily, that's the essence of education!"

Someone chimed in. "Ms. Squire's teaching philosophy is indeed progressive. She deserves the prize!"

Maeve expressed her frustration, "This is absurd!"

Ruth raised an eyebrow. "Ms. Campbell, we're in a school. No need to raise your voice. Can I make a suggestion if you're upset?"

Ruth proposed, "I'll conduct a vote with the parents. If you receive more votes than Ms. Squire, I'll nominate you!"

Maeve was taken aback. "What?"

Ruth turned to Maisie and asked, "What do you say, Ms. Squire?"

Maisie chuckled. "Of course. I'm fine with that."

Ruth turned back to Maeve, awaiting her response.

Maeve bit her lip, looked at Maisie, and said with emphasis, "I hope you'll keep your promise. If I get more votes, you'll nominate me!"

Chapter 1647

Chapter 1647

Josiah carried a tray of freshly washed strawberries over to Kelly, who was resting in bed. He offered her a strawberry with a gentle smile. Despite being married for many years, their love was as strong as when they first started dating, which sparked envy in many.

Arya knocked on the door and entered, bringing not only supplements for her mother but also a new piece of artwork she had created.

"Mom, dad, Toph and I are planning to create a more realistic comic. It's about a couple's journey from their youth to middle age, and the main characters are you two. What do you think?" Arya asked, displaying her artwork.

Pride shone on her parents' faces.

Initially, they had placed most of their hopes on Graham. It was not because they favored him but because they thought Arya's indifferent character from a young age made her unsuitable as a successor. However, it appeared that their daughter was proving to be more reliable than their son.

Kelly held Arya's hand with a serious expression. "There's something I'd like to give you."

Arya looked surprised. Kelly reached beneath her pillow and retrieved a paper bag containing the core documents of the Bayer and Tanner Groups.

"And here's the headquarters' stamp," Josiah added, handing it to her.

Arya felt uneasy holding these significant responsibilities.

"Mom, dad..."

"We're getting older, and my health is declining. I've been staying in a sanatorium, and I'm afraid I won't be able to return to manage the company for a while," Kelly explained, her seriousness evident. Josiah was no longer the cheerful man he once was. He looked at Arya with a grave expression. "Arya, we've decided to pass these responsibilities to you. You must take up this role."

Arya's eyes widened, and panic set in. She wasn't sure how to handle this.

"To be honest, we're extremely disappointed in your brother," Kelly said, rising with her frail body. "He won't be inheriting any of the Bayer or Tanner assets."

Arya bit her lip, aware that this decision came after Graham canceled his wedding with Maisie and brought Sophia and her son home.

However, she didn't feel capable of taking on this responsibility and worried about her brother.

"Mom, dad, have you considered that maybe Graham is just going through a phase? He—"

"Remember this! Don't give him a single penny!" Kelly's emotions ran high, and she coughed intensely. "Graham is my son, and I know him well. He's not just infatuated with that woman. She has him wrapped around her finger. He's no match for her. If this continues, whether it's the Bayers or Tanners, he'll lose everything sooner or later."

Josiah tried to calm his wife. "Don't worry. Maybe he's not as foolish as you think."

Kelly forced a smile but remained worried. Josiah's eyes dimmed as he held his wife in his arms.

Chapter 1648

Chapter 1648

Kelly said, "I suggested we should dissolve the overseas company the last time, but he was upset. After all, it's that woman who is upset. She'll definitely persuade him to resort to tricks, and he'll

unquestionably listen to her."

She then turned to Arya and continued. "So, before they do something even worse, Arya, you must hold onto those two companies! If you can't manage it alone, consult with Toph, Zuko, or Pammy. Without your approval, your brother can't take even a penny from you, understand?"

Kelly implored, gripping Arya's hands tightly, "The Bayers and Tanners' assets have been accumulated for generations. We can't afford to lose them all!"

Arya nodded vigorously and assured her, "I've got it, mom. Don't worry. I hope Graham will soon turn things around, and our family can return to how it used to be."

Exhausted, Kelly closed her eyes and coughed heavily.

At that moment, someone hurried past outside the door.

Sophia concealed herself at the corner of the corridor, her eyes filled with resentment as she stared at Kelly's room. Her hand pressed against the wall, almost chipping the paint.

She had overheard the entire conversation and had a plan in mind.

"Hello, Sophia." Graham's voice came from the phone. "Have you visited my mom? I'm held up here. Tell her I'll be there soon."

"No need." Sophia's voice turned cold. "It's pointless for you to come. Your sister's in there. The three of them are playing a happy family."

"What did you say?" Graham exclaimed.

"I heard them loud and clear." Sophia scoffed. "Your parents gave their assets to your sister. You, the son, get nothing!"

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the line.

Sophia continued. "Don't give up just yet, Graham. We can get a loan from the bank, can't we? When the business with Fat Lawler takes off, your parents will surely change their minds. So..."

"I'll go to the bank now." Graham's deep voice assured her. "I'll apply for the loan right away."

She grinned, secretly pleased that Graham had changed his mind and validated her point-that Kelly was an obstacle that needed to be removed.

Kelly's health was deteriorating. She would wither with a single trigger, and Sophia knew that breaking someone's heart was the key to taking their life. She smirked, content with her plan. She glanced at the door one last time before departing, a cold hint of viciousness flashing through her eyes.

A week later.

The voting for the Outstanding Teacher Prize among parents concluded. The vote count took place in the meeting room, and as expected, Maisie had an overwhelming lead in votes. It was almost a unanimous decision, leaving Maeve far behind.

Many parents not only cast their votes but also left online comments, expressing their gratitude for Maisie's patience with the children and her dedication.

Maeve widened her eyes as the vote count was announced. She slammed the table and stood up amidst the cheers and applause, exclaiming, "I can't believe it! The votes must have been rigged!"

At that moment, everyone in the room stared at her, then turned their attention to Maisie, unsure of what to say.

Chapter 1649

Chapter 1649

Ruth felt embarrassed.

"What nonsense are you talking about, Ms. Campbell? We've counted all the votes here in front of everyone. Are you implying it's rigged? Are you suggesting I did that?!"

"I wouldn't dare say it's you, ma'am!" Maeve was sarcastic. "But the vote difference is too much. I won't believe it, no matter what! You didn't rig it, but maybe someone petty pulled a trick?"

"You..."

Ruth was seething with rage. She was never good at dealing with troublemakers like her.

"Ms. Campbell, you'll have to face the consequences of your words." Maisie stood up, her tone calm as she looked at her. "I'd like to think I've never offended you in any way. The voting is public and transparent. If I were to manipulate the votes, how could I do it with everyone watching?"

Maeve glared at her.

Maisie was typically quiet, so everyone thought she was a pushover. However, what she said was valid. She wouldn't give in when faced with a predicament. That's why they respected her. Daniel was standing at the door with a proud smile. He had been observing the situation in the meeting room.

He was elated to see Maisie's votes in the lead. It had surprised his subordinates.

"Ms. Maisie has really stepped up," one of his subordinates remarked, smiling. "She's... different now."

Daniel smirked. Perhaps she had never changed from the beginning. It was just that she was too cautious when they were together, which had subdued her personality.

"Mr. Quimby, what should we do about Maeve?" someone asked.

"Calm down," Daniel replied confidently. "She'll experience the consequences of her actions."

An intense argument broke out as soon as he said that.

"I'll report to the education bureau and request an investigation into the votes!" Maeve adamantly declared.

"I just can't believe a novice with only a few years of teaching experience and her own way of teaching. Teaching has always been about one's experience and years of dedication! The votes aren't rigged, my ass!"

"Ms. Campbell!" Ruth said fiercely, "I can terminate your contract if you continue with this nonsense!"

"Hah! Trying to threaten me?" Maeve gritted her teeth. "Don't think I'm oblivious to your junior... courting Ms. Squire, am I right?"

"What are you insinuating?"

"What wouldn't a man do to make his woman smile?!"

Ruth's eyes widened, her hands trembling.

"Who can't see Mr. Quimby's intentions?" Maeve continued. "He's had his eye on her since the first day he came to the school! I'm sure he contributed to the voting this time. It seems one has an advantage if they're young and attractive! She can rely on men when she can't rely on herself!"

"Ms. Campbell, I've always respected you as a veteran in the industry, but mind your words!" Maisie looked serious. "I was voted for my abilities and the effort I put into the kids. I've never depended on anyone I respect you, so please respect yourself. What you're saying isn't befitting of a teacher!"

"Haha!" Maeve laughed hysterically. "So what's appropriate for a teacher? Should we do what you did, get engaged to the Bayers' heir while flirting with a wealthy, older man? Ms. Squire, was your engagemen called off due to your ambiguous relationship with Mr. Quimby?"

"You-"

"Shut your trap if you can't behave!" A stern voice suddenly came from the door.

Chapter 1650

Chapter 1650

The meeting room went quiet when a tall, imposing figure walked in with an air of authority. Ruth felt relieved to see some support and hurried over to whisper, "Why are you so late?" Daniel's eyes were smiling, but the smile faded when he saw Maeve, replaced by an icy glare.

Ruth cleared her throat and said loudly, "Today, we're not just revealing the vote count, but I'd also like to announce something."

She produced a document with the school's seal and Daniel's signature on the final page.

"Mr. Quimby has invested 700,000 dollars in our kindergarten and is now the largest shareholder! We appreciate his contribution to early childhood education. We will stick to our original vision and not let Mr. Quimby down."

The crowd exchanged puzzled looks, took a moment to absorb the surprising news, and then erupted in applause.

Maisie, still trying to understand, felt her heart racing. Her cheeks flushed discreetly. When she met Daniel's intense gaze, she turned her face away, though her subtle smile betrayed her feelings.

Daniel smiled faintly, his gaze shifting to the others. "Now that I'm a shareholder, every action I take should be in the best interest of the international kindergarten. So..." He fixed his eyes on Maeve. "I intend to reorganize the teaching staff."

Maeve took a step back involuntarily, anxiety in her eyes.

"Some may not be suitable for this team," Daniel declared sternly. "Their values are skewed and could have a detrimental influence on the children."

"Is that aimed at me?" Maeve's voice trembled.

"Why would you assume I meant you?" Daniel coldly replied. "Since you're aware, though, I won't need to say more."

"Mr. Quimby, you-"

"This is meant to be a fair competition," Daniel interrupted, his gaze piercing. "If you find it unfair, it might be your own inner demons clouding your judgment. An individual harboring such demons is unfit to be an educator."

Maeve's legs turned weak, and she shuffled toward the door, supported by the wall. Her trembling hands clenched into fists. She dared not voice her anger before Daniel.

"Mr. Quimby, I merely questioned the voting results-"

"No problem," Daniel replied nonchalantly. "You can challenge any part you want, and my assistant will help you review every aspect until you accept the result. However, after your inquiry, I hope to see your resignation as well. After all, you've been a teacher in this field for many years. Getting dismissed might be embarrassing."

Maeve turned pale, and she moved stiffly as she made her way to the exit.

The atmosphere in the meeting room quickly returned to normal.

Ruth finished the vote tally, announcing Maisie as the winner.

Colleagues offered their congratulations.

Maisie felt a bit embarrassed as she smiled back. Through the crowd, she caught sight of that gentle and passionate gaze.

Her heart fluttered as if a kitten was playfully pawing at her emotions.

At that moment, her phone buzzed with a message from Daniel.

[Let's celebrate tonight, my treat.]