Your Love Is But a Dream (Clara and Wren)

With that, Brace made a move to leave.

Karina stepped forward and stopped him "Mr. Collins, we've been working together for years. Consider an old friends in the business world. Let me get straight to the point."

The directness in her voice iminediately pat Bruce on edge.

He was about to speak, but Katrina cut him off and continued, "Mr. Collins, you came to our company last time, eager to learn more about the project. You were clearly interested in rollaborating

"But in just a few days, you've had a change of heart. Even when I offered to give your company a better deal, you turned me down without hesitation. I need to know why."

"Lalready explained, didn't I? M. Caldwell, we're all businesspeople. When there's an opportunity to make money, of course, I'm interested

"But I can't take on this project right now. You'll be to find someone else," Bruce said, his expression tinged with helplessness, a hint of regret in his eyes.

"That's not the answer I'm looking for." Katrina's voice sharpened. "I want to know the real reason. As a favor to our past relationship, can't you point me in the right direction?" At these words, Bruce's expression shifted to one of hesitation and discomfort.

He and Kattina had known each other for years. Back when Jomas was still alive, this two companies had worked together on many projects.

If it hadn't been for Jonas untimely death, Hayworth Corporation would likely have been a market leader by now-too far ahead for anyone to catch up.

Instead, there was Katrina, desperately trying to secure investments as she was humbled by circumstances,

But Bruce was clearly hesitant.

Katrina thought for a moment, then smiled. "I low what you're worried about. You know no well enough. If you trust me, I won't let this cause any trouble for you."

Hearing this, Bruce relaxed slightly. He looked around, checking to any approaching eyes, then nodded at his assistant to keep watch ahead.

He turned back to Katrina. "Since you've asked, I'll tell you. It's not that I don't want to work with you, but Mr. Zachman has made it clear in the industry that anyone who collaborates with you poing against him.

"You know how it is. Please don't make this harder for me I simply can't afford to offend Ma. Zachman. We'll have to put the idea of collaborating on hold for now,

"But since you're calling us friends, let me give you a bit of advice. You and Ma. Zachman have been married for so many years. You must have ferlings for him.

"I believe what he's doing is just to get you to humble yourself, not to ruin Hayworth Corporation.

"And honestly, given Hayworth Corporation's current financial situation, there's no better option than Zachman Group's backing. If he supports you, there's no reason your project won't Hove forward.

"So, why don't you go home and have a good chat with Mr.Zachman? Once that's sorted out, we can revisit the idea of working together without any more concerns."

Although Katrina had suspected that Carlisle was behind this, hearing it confirmed only fueled a fire of anger within her

She hadn't realized just how shameless Carlisle could be. Not only had he withdrawn his investment from Hayworth Corporation, but he had also effectively shut all her other doors, ensuring no other company would dare to collaborate with Hayworth Corporation.noveldrama

She was now left with no choice but to grovel before him, begging him to lent.

How had she been so blind to fall for such a man?

Seeing the shift in her expression, Bruce grow concerned. "Ms. Caldwell, are you alright?"

Katrina struggled to contain her anger, forcing a smile and waving her hand. "Thank you, M. Collins, for telling me the truth. I'll treat you to dinner another day. I'm not feeling well, so leave now" She had lost all interest in staying at the hangert.

She had originally come to the event hoping to secure investments or partnerships for Hayworth Corporation

But now, with Carlisle Blocking all her paths, no company in Phoypolis would dare to work with her unless he allowed it

If she wanted to solve this, she had no choice but to go back and face him. Otherwise, it would be a fruitless endeavor even if she stayed here all night.

Once outside the hotel, Katrina got into her car and immediately dialed Willie. Niter a few moments, Willie antwered the call