Chapter 16
Mandy's eyes were brimming with tears, and she couldn't hold them back any longer. Her smile vanished as she lowered her head and started sobbing quietly.
Michael's frown deepened, and he turned to Catherine with a clear hint of anger. "Mandy means well and is genuinely worried about your health. She's the woman I love. Grandma, if you have any issues, take them up with me."
Catherine stayed stone-faced, her gaze unyielding. Michael, realizing arguing was pointless, gently took Mandy's hand and helped her up. "It's getting late. Grandma, please rest well. We won't bother you anymore."
They had been there less than ten minutes before leaving.
After they left, Isabella walked up to Catherine and sighed. "Mrs. Smith, there's no need to be mad at Michael because of someone else."
Catherine fiddled with the jade bracelet on her wrist, looking thoughtful. "This woman from the Brown Family isn't just anyone. Michael is standing against me for her."
Isabella straightened the blanket on Catherine's lap and replied softly, "That can't be true. Michael respects you more than anyone."
Catherine just smiled and said nothing more.
Not many at Skyline Corporation knew Rachel had become the largest shareholder. Only a few senior board members were aware of her power. With decision-making control in hand, she quickly signed a contract with Joseph.
Joseph's business had massive potential, and while it hadn't reached Michael's level of success yet, it was on a rapid upward trajectory. With the capable help of Robert and John, everything seemed to be going smoothly.
But John's predictions soon came true.
News outlets were suddenly flooded with footage of a blue Audi hitting Mandy, sparking a storm of public outrage. Comments branded Rachel as sinister and malevolent. In the public's eyes, Mandy was the innocent victim, while Michael seemed to be deceived by his ex-wife, Rachel.
The scandal blew up quickly, and it seemed only a matter of time before the police would step in.
The Skyline Corporation board members quickly called Rachel, saying the incident had a significant impact and if not resolved quickly, it could affect the company's performance.
John mocked, "A bunch of shameless people. Rachel being a shareholder hasn't even been made public. How could it affect the company's performance? They're just trying to intimidate her."
Robert, eyes glued to the news footage, added, "Any expert can see that video has been tampered with. The real problem is the overwhelming public opinion. People are quick to jump to conclusions."
John, filled with contempt, sneered, "Rachel, what on earth did you see in Michael? He's shameless enough to release a fake video. He and Mandy are perfect for each other; they're both despicable."
Rachel watched the video without flinching, her face unreadable. John, noticing her silence, quickly apologized, "Sorry, Rachel. I didn't mean to upset you. I'm just thankful you divorced him early. Good thing we secured the real video from six years ago."
Rachel looked up and met Robert's worried gaze, then spoke calmly, "Michael could divorce me for Mandy. What else wouldn't he do? I'm not surprised."
John suddenly suggested, "Since we have the real video, why not release it immediately and expose the truth? Let them face the consequences!"
Rachel had other plans and said to John, "Wait. Didn't you say the Brown Family is hosting a banquet for Mandy tomorrow to celebrate her recovery?"
"Yes," John confirmed. "Are you planning to go?"
Rachel smiled meaningfully, "Not only am I going, but I also have an unexpected gift for them."
John and Robert exchanged knowing smiles, recognizing the glint of determination in Rachel's eyes.
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