Chapter 158 Disappointing Father
"What's up with James?" Laura asked, looking puzzled as she watched him leave.
Nancy walked over, rolling her eyes. "Laura, James is just blowing smoke. Don't pay him any mind—he won't bring anyone around tomorrow," Nancy said dismissively as she approached Laura.
Laura sighed. "The contract's signed. No point in talking about it now. We need a plan."
Nancy shrugged. "If no investors show up, your company could go under, and you'll owe a ton in severance."
Laura squinted, deep in thought.
Nancy continued, "If James flakes, the shareholders will demand money. If you can't pay, they might take you to court."
Laura, frustrated, shouted, "What is James up to?"
Nancy hesitated, then said, "Maybe ask Uncle Joe for help. You got involved with James because of his company. He shares some blame."
Laura replied softly, "Dad's company is strapped for cash too. He might not have enough."
Nancy insisted, "But asking him is our best shot."
Laura thought for a moment, then headed out.
"Where are you going?" Nancy called after her.
"To talk to my dad. Maybe he has a solution," Laura said, grabbing her bag and rushing out.
Laura drove straight to her father Joe Hall's company.
"Laura, what brings you here?" Joe asked, surprised.
"Those shareholders caused trouble at my company again," Laura said flatly.
Joe smiled. "They always do. Maybe you should just close up and help me."
"This time, they want to withdraw their shares," Laura said softly.
Joe looked shocked. "Withdraw their shares? Tell me everything."
Laura took a deep breath and explained the situation.
Joe frowned. "You married a stranger for my company's sake. I feel guilty about that. But I didn't expect him to be a broke delivery guy causing all this mess."
"Dad, we can't dwell on that now. James signed the contract. I owe severance tomorrow, and I don't have the money. What do I do?" Laura asked anxiously.
"Are you sure James won't bring investors tomorrow?" Joe asked quietly.
"Absolutely. He's just a broke student. No way he's coming through," Laura replied quickly.
"If James can't find you investors, we'll have to deal with a hefty severance payment. But you know the situation here—our company has just started to recover, and we can't possibly come up with that kind of money," Daniel said, clearly troubled.
"What do we do then?" Laura asked, tears welling up in her eyes.
Joe hesitated. "Laura, I have a solution."
"What is it, Dad? Tell me!" Laura urged.
"If you break off your engagement with James and get with Donovan, the problem's solved," Joe said softly.
Laura was stunned. "But I don't like Donovan!" she shouted.
"Do you like James?" Joe asked flatly.
"No, I don't like James either!" she replied.
"Then why marry James but not be with Donovan?"
"I married James to help your company. If I break it off, the investors'll pull their investment. Even if my company is saved, yours will be at risk!" Laura said emotionally.
Previously, Laura had threatened to cancel the engagement with James in the meeting room, but that was just a heated remark. Even if she wanted to end things with James, she had no intention of being with Donovan.
"If you get with Donovan, it won't matter if James' end pulls out. The Diaz Family is wealthy; Donovan could easily invest millions in my company," Joe said slowly.
Laura's eyes widened in realization. It was clear now—Daniel intended for Donovan to replace James. Since Laura's marriage to James was merely a means to resolve his company's problems, Daniel didn't care who provided the investment, as long as the money came through.
Laura had no feelings for either Donovan or James; neither was someone she liked. But if she were with Donovan, it would not only resolve the current issues but also secure future support and investment from The Diaz Family for The Hall Family.
"Laura, think about it. Marrying James or Donovan, it's still a marriage. Why not get the most out of it?" Joe said, squinting.
"Dad, did Donovan come to see you?" Laura asked softly.
"Yes, he just called," Joe admitted.
Laura looked at Joe, feeling helpless and silent for a long time.
"Laura, I've laid it all out. It's up to you now," Joe said flatly.
"I understand," Laura said, looking dazed.
