Chapter 365 Time Heals Everything
Nicholas, who had been quiet for a bit, suddenly spoke up. "I'm getting older. From now on, I'm handing over the management of my assets in this project to Anne."
Hearing this, Anne turned gracefully and nestled beside Nicholas, linking her arm with his.
She said in a sultry tone, "Nicholas, you always take such good care of me. Don't worry. I won't let you down."
She tilted her head slightly, scanning the room with a smug look, her fingers tracing circles on Nicholas's arm, as if to announce their special relationship to everyone.
Despite Nicholas's usual calm demeanor, the slight blush on his ears betrayed his discomfort. He gently patted Anne's hand, trying to appear nonchalant but with a hint of affection.
He said softly, "Do well and don't let me down."
Anne beamed with pride at his response and boasted to me, "Once I take over, this project will be a huge success. Don't be jealous when that happens."
She flicked her hair dramatically and snuggled closer to Nicholas.
Jeffrey, who seemed to understand Anne's true nature, frowned slightly, a glimmer of concern in his eyes, and said seriously, "In the early stages of the project, collaboration is crucial. We need everyone's input."
Everyone understood that Jeffrey doubted Anne's ability to handle the project alone.
David's mouth twitched slightly, a trace of disdain in his eyes.
He forced a laugh and said, "Anne, you're young and capable, but this commercial real estate project is very complex. I hope you'll give it your all."
Noticing Anne's arrogant demeanor, I shook my head slightly, lifted my glass, took a sip, and said coolly, "I hope you can deliver on your promises. This project is no joke and affects everyone's interests. Don't mess it up."
Anne glared at me immediately, crossing her arms.
She retorted, "Stop saying such irresponsible things. If you have the ability, show me some results instead of just trying to discourage me."
Lucas, already unhappy with Nicholas's decision to give the project to Anne, was even more annoyed by her arrogance.
He glared at her and said coldly, "You? All you do is shop and buy bags. If you mess this up, we'll have to clean up your mess."
With that, he turned and walked out of the room without even saying goodbye to Nicholas.
Anne, furious at everyone's attitude, turned crimson with anger, almost ready to explode. However, Nicholas's gentle coughs made her flinch, causing her to bite her tongue reluctantly. She stood there, fuming, occasionally glaring at everyone.
As we left the club, the cool night breeze blew into my collar. I pulled up my coat collar and walked towards the parking lot with David.
He turned to me, gratitude in his eyes.
He said, "Diana, thank you so much for today. If it weren't for you stepping in, I don't know how Lucas would have made things difficult for me."
I waved my hand lightly and smiled.
"Don't be so formal. We're all here to solve problems. On one hand, I wanted to help you resolve the Wilson family's immediate crisis. On the other hand, I genuinely hope to minimize the negative impact on Lila. Her suffering is what pains me the most," I said.David frowned and let out a heavy sigh.
"This is ridiculous! Handing over the commercial land in East Wind City to Anne? She doesn't know squat about business, except how to butter up Nicholas. It's absurd!"
He grew more agitated, his voice rising. "I'm really worried she'll mess up the project. The Wilson family can't handle any more setbacks."
I quickly reached out and patted his shoulder gently, trying to calm him down.
"Don't get yourself worked up. Your health is important. If you get sick from stress, it'll just make things worse. Save your strength for the challenges ahead. We're all in this together. Go home and get some rest. Keep me updated on any developments."
David nodded, got into his car, but rolled down the window to look at me. "Diana, you should head home too. Thanks again for tonight."
I waved him off. "Go on; don't worry about me."
I stood there, watching his taillights fade into the night until they disappeared. Then I turned to walk to my own car.
Just then, I heard Lucas's voice behind me. "Diana, wait up."
I paused and turned to see Lucas rushing towards me. He halted in front of me, his expression a mix of confusion and concern.
"I don't get why you're helping David. Lanny hurt Lila so badly, and now you're helping him just because you've known him for years?"
Sensing Lucas's frustration, I calmly explained, "Lucas, what Lanny did is unforgivable, and he paid for it with his life. But David is different. I've known David and Lila for over twenty years. I know his character well, and he genuinely wants to do well with this project. Lila, like me, would rather give him a chance than see him treated unfairly."
Lucas frowned slightly, silent for a moment before speaking. "I know you have a deep bond, but when I think about what Lila went through..."
He paused, his eyes filled with pain.
I patiently explained, "I understand how you feel. You care about Lila. But we can't take out our anger on David because of Lanny's mistakes. Lila is kind-hearted and wouldn't want to see David's opportunity destroyed because of the past."
Lucas sighed softly. "You're right. Lila did ask me to let go of my prejudice against David. She's always so kind and considerate. I respect her wishes, but it's hard to let go."
"Time will heal everything," I comforted him. "By the way, how's Lila doing? You need to take good care of her."
Lucas's expression softened, a slight smile on his lips.
"She's doing well. Sometimes, she worries about me working too hard on the project and tells me to take care of myself. I spend as much time with her as I can, and I remember all the things she likes."
"That's good. Lila is a wonderful girl. You two need to stay strong."
Although Lucas was devoted to Lila, I still had some concerns.
"Don't worry. I will. Talking to you tonight has made me feel better. Thank you, Diana."
"Don't mention it. We're all friends. It's almost time for Lila's next therapy session. I'll go with her."