Chapter 239 A New Beginning
Edward, a savvy businessman, knew that even though the Howard Group was struggling, he had to keep his usual strong front during negotiations to avoid being underestimated.
When the time was right, Edward made it clear he wanted to team up with Ronnie.
Fiona was sitting nearby, her eyes glued to Edward, beaming with joy. She kept glancing between Ronnie and Edward, silently rooting for them to seal the deal.
I was more focused on soaking up the business lessons from the discussions, not really paying attention to the personal stuff going on.
After several rounds of intense negotiation, Edward's tone got more forceful. He said firmly, "Mr. Griffin, if you trust me, let's wrap this up today. If you have any doubts, I get it, take your time."
Ronnie laughed, "Mr. Howard, your boldness convinces me. Let's do it!"
Everyone knew Edward's recent troubles were because he got duped by a shady character. With his skills and honesty, he wouldn't screw over his partners.
Fiona, seeing this exciting moment, couldn't hide her smile. But Edward, always the stoic and deep in the business zone, didn't notice Fiona's feelings.
The meeting finally ended, and everyone started to leave the conference room. As Edward stepped out, Aria appeared from the corner, sneering, "Edward, I didn't think you had it in you to bring the Howard Group back. You got lucky this time!"
Edward shot back coldly, "You call this luck? You really think I've made it this far on luck? But you've taught me a lesson. If I were you, I'd be hiding like a rat in the sewer. Once the Howard Group is back on its feet, I'll make sure to repay you."
His fists clenched as he spoke.
Sensing the tension, Daniel stepped in to diffuse it, "Mr. Howard, congrats on getting the Howard Group back on track."
Edward turned to Daniel, saying sincerely, "Mr. Wilson, I owe you for setting up this meeting. Without you, I wouldn't have found a way out so quickly."
Daniel waved it off, replying, "We're all in the business world; we should help each other. But after this, you should know who to trust and who not to."
He glanced meaningfully in my direction.
Aria scoffed, "The future is long, Edward. Just wait and see!" She then stormed off.
When Edward watched Aria leave, his expression darkened. He said firmly, "This is a new beginning. No matter what happens, I will protect the Howard family's legacy."
Daniel patted Edward's shoulder, smiling, "Mr. Howard, you've got more than just the Howard family's legacy to protect."
After Edward and Daniel left, Nicholas turned to me with a concerned look. "Diana, I know you've been through a lot with Edward. Now that the Howard Group is back on track, he needs someone to support him. Have you thought about reconciling and taking on the business world together? With your combined skills, you could dominate Wind City's business scene."
Nicholas's words made my heart skip a beat, memories of my time with Edward flooding back. But my stubbornness quickly kicked in.
I looked up, meeting Nicholas's gaze firmly. "Godfather, I won't choose to reconcile. I don't want to fall back into a draining marriage."
Nicholas was momentarily surprised but then nodded gently. "Diana, I understand. It's rare to know what you want after all you've been through."
My eyes welled up with gratitude, my voice choked with emotion. "Godfather, thank you. I now have the Cooper Group. It's a new start, and though it will be tough, I'll work hard."
Nicholas patted my shoulder, giving me a reassuring look. "Since you've made up your mind, I won't persuade you otherwise. If you ever need help, come to me. I have some connections and resources. Your parents passed away early, and I can't watch you struggle alone."
I was grateful for Nicholas's support and happy to have a friend like Lila. When she heard about my reacquisition of the Cooper Group, she was the happiest.
As I left the venue, I got a call from Lila. "Diana, I heard you got the Cooper Group! That's great news! I have some good news too. Let's meet up!"
I hadn't seen Lila in a while due to work.
As night fell, I arrived at the hotel as planned and saw Lila walking arm-in-arm with a young man.
Lila waved enthusiastically, smiling brightly. As they approached, I realized the man was Nicholas's son, Lucas.
"You... you two?" I asked softly, surprised.
Lila, still smiling, introduced him. "Diana, this is my boyfriend, Lucas."
Thinking of Lucas's background, I couldn't understand how they got together. I couldn't help but ask, "Lila, how did you two meet?"
Lila's eyes dimmed slightly as she replied softly, "Diana, remember when we went to negotiate a deal, and Lanny drugged us?"
I nodded, puzzled why she brought it up.
Lila continued, "That time, after Lanny took you away, Lucas saved me, and we've been together since."
I quickly pulled Lila aside, whispering, "Do you know who he is?"
Lila smiled, "Of course, he's my boyfriend."
I shook my head, serious. "No, I mean his background. He's my godfather's illegitimate son. How did you end up with him?"