Chapter 40
Her initial enthusiasm for the meeting evaporated the moment she spotted Lilly seated next to Alexander, who was observing her closely. Lilly maintained a neutral expression, giving no indication of recognition. "Ms. Blake, they're ready for us," Kate's assistant whispered, noting her stunned reaction. Shaking herself back to the present, Kate plastered a smile on her face, remembering her mother's advice to be cordial with Lilly to impress their grandfather.
"Greetings, everyone. I am the CEO of Blake Real Estate, and I'm eager to discuss a potential partnership with Kane Realty," Kate announced with a smile. The meeting coordinator directed her to a seat, and she, along with her team, sat across from Lilly.
Kate beamed at Lilly, who narrowed her eyes, pondering Kate's intentions. Kate then turned her charming smile towards Alexander, hoping to gain his favor. Jacob had discovered that Kate and Alexander attended the same high school, though they never interacted.
"Thank you for considering our proposal, Mr. Kane," Kate said, trying to appear confident. Alexander replied with a neutral look, "Let's wait until your project is reviewed before you thank me." Kate nodded and signaled her team to begin the presentation. As the room dimmed, everyone's focus shifted to the presenter.
Alexander glanced at Lilly, noticing her composed demeanor as she paid attention. After the presentation, the lights were restored. "What's your opinion, Mr. Kane?" Kate asked, feeling the weight of his presence.
Alexander turned to Lilly, "What are your thoughts?" Kate's face fell, not expecting him to seek Lilly's input. Lilly picked up the project file and slid it over to Kate. Recognizing it as the copy sent to Alexander, Kate asked, "What’s this about?"
"Open it and find out," Lilly responded. The room fell silent as everyone, aware of the sisters' strained relationship, watched the interaction. Alexander reclined, observing closely.
Kate leafed through the pages, her irritation growing with each red mark and the "Redo" note on the last page. "How dare you?" she fumed. "Your project lacks proper planning and needs to be redone. The presentation only made it worse; it’s unacceptable," Lilly critiqued.
Suppressing her anger, Kate turned to Alexander, "Mr. Kane, our company has a stellar record of success and numerous government project wins. You can trust us." Lilly couldn’t stifle her laughter, causing the room, including Alexander, to raise eyebrows.
Attempting to belittle Lilly, Kate said, "Don’t you even know your family business? And you aspire to be the heir?" Lilly leaned forward, "Didn’t our grandfather tell you those successful projects were approved by me and my late sisters?" The room was shocked, even Alexander.
Kate, unwilling to accept this, retorted, "Grandfather had many consultants. What makes you think it was your work?" Lilly sighed, "Are you still questioning why I’m the heir? Do your homework." She added, "This is your first project, and it failed. I’m disappointed. What will grandfather say?"
Kate knew she had lost but vowed to win next time. Lilly offered a second chance, "Draft another contract, and if it’s good, I’ll approve it." Alexander, impressed by this side of Lilly, watched silently.
To avoid further confrontation, Kate stormed out. Far from the meeting room, she vented her frustration, "We have a chance to redo it. We should be grateful." Her team cowered as she screamed, "It was my sister, not Mr. Kane! She plans to humiliate me again!"
Kate smirked, determined to have the last word, thinking, "You won this time, Lilly, but next time, I'll make sure you know your place."
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