Chapter 66

Chapter 66:

Elaine’s deepest fears had become a reality, and her face tensed as she suggested calmly, “Since you’re so busy that you barely have time to eat, let’s not discuss work right now.”

“Sure, sure, let’s focus on eating first. Today was hectic, and I didn’t even manage to eat anything,” Josie said quickly.

Finally, there was a moment of peace. Throughout the meal, Josie and Kristine continued to make small talk, while Elaine and Madisyn had already cleared their plates.

Observing Josie’s slow pace, Elaine suggested, “No rush, take your time eating. We’ll head back first.”

“What? You’re leaving already? There are a few things I still need to discuss with Madisyn,” Josie responded.

Madisyn looked at her expressionlessly.

Josie continued, “I know you’re hoping Denali will clear the air. Since she’s working with us now, I can arrange for that. What do you say?”

Elaine’s expression turned grim—was Josie provoking her deliberately? Even if Denali made a statement now, would it change anything? Would anyone believe it?

“That’s enough.” Elaine, having restrained her frustration all day, finally lost her cool. Her normally calm demeanor turned cold. “Madisyn doesn’t need your concern.”

Josie was taken aback. It was her first time witnessing Elaine’s anger. “Mrs. Johns, could there be a misunderstanding here? I genuinely want to assist Madisyn, especially now that Natural Beauty is—”

“We can manage our affairs just fine on our own. If you have so much spare time, perhaps it would be better used to attend to your own business,” Elaine responded coldly.

Josie’s expression shifted to one of embarrassment.

Carly was visibly upset. “Elaine, what are you implying? Josie was merely trying to offer assistance to your daughter, and this is how you respond? You clearly don’t value genuine kindness!”

“Genuine kindness? Do you really think I’m oblivious to the schemes you and your daughter are plotting? It’s fine if you want to show off a bit, but do you have to keep going on and on about it?” Elaine scoffed. “Do you think a company is that important? Then your family must be facing troubles. But just so you know, even if Natural Beauty collapses, it won’t affect the Johns family in the slightest!”

Carly was seething with anger.

Madisyn watched Elaine, astonished—she had never seen her mother act so assertively! A mother who could stand her ground like that? Madisyn was admittedly impressed.

Josie quickly came to her mother’s defense, her expression stern. “Mrs. Johns, how can you speak about us in such a way? We had good intentions, but you’ve completely misunderstood!”

Kristine exhaled a weary sigh as she observed the unfolding drama, finally interjecting, “Josie, I’m sorry. Maybe it’s best you and your mom head home.”

“I’m not leaving! Mrs. Johns, you can criticize me all you want, but how dare you insult my mother?” Josie said firmly. “You owe her an apology!”

Elaine let out a light laugh. “Apology? Your motives are quite transparent. Do you really think you can deceive me by playing nice?”

Carly retorted sharply, “You’re just jealous because my daughter outshines yours! You’ve enjoyed a fortunate life with a successful husband and remarkable sons, yet your daughter hasn’t measured up. That must sting, doesn’t it?”

Madisyn was speechless.

Elaine’s expression turned even more severe. “Is that really what you think of me?”

“Am I wrong?”

“First off, I’ve never seen my daughter as a failure. She excels in her own ways; not everyone is meant for the business world,” Elaine stated coldly. “So there’s no reason to be jealous.”

Madisyn whispered to herself, “Actually, I think I’m quite capable in business.”

Elaine quickly reassured her, “Madisyn, don’t fret. Even if you are a failure, Mom still loves you and doesn’t see you as lesser than anyone!”

Madisyn was at a loss for words. Was she supposed to be relieved or upset by that?

Josie sneered. “Well then, Madisyn. If you’re capable in business, why not prove it with some results? Your company seems to be on the brink of failure.”

The air was thick with tension.

Kristine quickly attempted to defuse the situation. “Mom, Madisyn, can we perhaps stop discussing these things? Josie, let’s call it a day. Please head home with your mom.”

Elaine faced Kristine. “Kristine, whose side are you on?”

It was the first time she felt a hint of disappointment in Kristine. Didn’t she realize how overtly Carly and Josie were mocking them?

Kristine softly apologized, “Mom, I know you’re upset, but Josie wasn’t mocking us. Perhaps she genuinely wanted to help Madisyn.”

Elaine was frustrated. “If she really wanted to help, she wouldn’t have partnered with Denali!”

“Business moves shouldn’t be swayed by personal issues,” Josie interjected quickly. “I truly wanted to assist Madisyn, but it appears Mrs. Johns is too sensitive. There’s nothing more I can add. My mom and I will leave now.”

Regardless, they had accomplished what they came for. They departed with a sense of victory.

Elaine was visibly shaken with anger. Madisyn gently rubbed her back, comforting her, “Mom, don’t let it get to you. They are the ones who should suffer. Don’t worry, they’ll regret their actions before they even exit the restaurant.”

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