A Life Debt Repaid By Cheng Xiaocheng Chapter 374

Patrick hence concluded, ‘This is why I came seeking a partnership with you, Miss Sachs-so that my family can retain our influence.”

“You flatter me, Mr. Stuart,” Cordy replied. “I’m far less wealthier than every other bigwig in North City, let alone the Levines. I’ve never gotten involved in politics to know my way around it either, so a partnership with me doesn’t help you at all.”

“You should give yourself more credit, Miss Sachs,” Patrick grinned. “It’s already clear that you’re special, given how John Levine was smitten-”

“There’s not necessarily a connection between sentiment and competence, ” Cordy retorted, cutting him off swiftly.

“Of course, but that’s just one point,” Patrick replied, ignoring her and showing no doubt in what he had set his mind on. “Secondly, if William Stuart intends to venture into politics, our side of the family has cause to get involved in business. Right now, you don’t have the ability to compete, but it is my opinion that a dark horse like you would soon surpass most- and I am willing to trust you.”

“Lastly,” he added, “we have one shared objective: to prevent the matrimony between John Levine and Jessica Stuart.”

“But I would like that to happen,” Cordy told him without uncertainty.

She didn’t say that out of spite, nor was she lying to herself-she genuinely would give John and Jessica her blessings of happiness from the bottom of her heart. Meanwhile, she could remove herself from the equation without further issue.

Patrick sighed. “Whatever you may believe, Miss Sachs, I know for a fact that John would never marry Jessica.”

“Then why would you come to me?’ Cordy asked, raising a brow. “You should talk to the man himself.’

“It’d be obvious what I’m doing if I did. Right now, there’s still a delicate peace between my side of the family and William’s, and neither are burning bridges just yet,”

Patrick explained. “I need you to help me with Jessica.”

Cordy’s eyes narrowed, but Patrick simply continued, “Everyone’s convinced that the progress of their side of the family depends on James Stuart, but that is not the case.

That responsibility has actually been placed squarely on Jessica’s shoulders. James is no more than the chess piece for the next move, whereas Jessica plays the important role of managing Stuart Holdings. Anything happens to her, their business falls apart and their arranged marriage to the Levines would be annulled. And once William loses the pillar of support from his empire of commerce, his attempted venture into politics would just be a pipe dream.”

“You’re really overestimating me, Mr. Stuart. Right now, I want nothing more than to run away from Jessica Stuart,” Cordy repeated, “nor do I believe I have what it takes to stand against her.”

“Indeed, but you don’t get to choose now,” Patrick shrugged. “You’re now an eyesore to her, and she won’t rest until you’re eliminated. The last failed attempt would only spur her to double her efforts, and I’m sure you’re smart enough to understand. You really shouldn’t believe you could be free just because she married John Levine. She’s never the type who lets any potential threat stay alive.”

Cordy bit her lip, but she couldn’t argue against that.

With that, Patrick continued, “I’m sure you’re not one who takes things lying down, or you’d never have enjoyed all the successes you had this far.

You’re tough as nails, and I’ve always admired that. I’m convinced you won’t refuse.’

“But I do. I refuse,” Cordy said, holding her gaze and showing zero hesitation.

There was a brief flash of surprise in Patrick’s sharp gaze.