Chapter 406:
âYou have nothing to do with my decision,â Milford retorted sharply, his gaze unwavering. âI just donât want to be far from Eileen. Iâm used to being around them, and going abroad alone would be dull.â
For Milford, his decision was about staying close to Eileen, not about his future or his relationship with his biological sister, which clearly stung Zola.
Zola took a moment to compose herself, considering the real reason for her visit. âOkay, but given your accelerated academic track, you could finish your university studies in two years, or maybe even one, right?â
Indeed, when Milford had been accepted into university after skipping grades, the president of Willowbrook University had suggested that he could speed up his studies even further.
âWhat are you getting at? Just say what you mean,â Milford challenged, meeting Zolaâs gaze directly, tired of the roundabout questions.
âLet me be direct. Once you graduate, I want you to join Apex Group,â Zola proposed without hesitation. With Bryan actively recruiting her top talents, Apex Group was in desperate need of capable individuals, especially those with Milfordâs intellect.
Milford was quick to decline. âI canât. Iâve promised Eileen that Iâd work with her after graduation to repay the debts I accumulated from my studies.â
Not easily deterred, Zola pressed on. âIâm offering you a substantial salary. With your qualifications, an annual package of one million isnât out of the question. Youâd be able to pay back Eileen in no time.â
Zola continued, her tone matter-of-fact. âIs she insisting that you work only for her? If so, Iâll have a word with her. She agreed to finance your education knowing youâd repay her, but she didnât stipulate such constraints!â
Your imagination starts at g Ɐ ln Ï Î½ð ðsâ¤conn Her voice rose in volume, inadvertently startling Gabriela, who began to squirm and crawl toward Milford on the mat.
Quickly scooping her up, Milford soothed, âItâs okay, Gabriela. Iâm here.â
As he comforted the child, his demeanor softened significantly compared to his interaction with Zola. Noticing Gabrielaâs distress, Milford excused himself from the conversation, his tone becoming protective.
Zola persisted, oblivious to Gabrielaâs discomfort. âThis doesnât concern you. Iâll discuss it with Eileen directly. Do you even have a written agreement about your arrangement? Let me see it.â
As Zolaâs voice grew louder, Gabriela nestled closer to Milford, on the verge of tears.
âCan you lower your voice?â Milford demanded, his tone sharp. âYouâre upsetting her. What I do regarding Eileen is none of your concern. This discussion about my career can wait. If itâs urgent, letâs arrange another time to talk outside. For now, I need you to leave.â
Milford turned his attention back to Gabriela, whispering softly, âLetâs find your teething biscuit, okay? Donât cry, your mom and dad will be home soon.â
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