Chapter 135
Chapter 135:
The sound of the busy tone left Phillip in shock.
He was puzzled by his sister’s sudden anger, especially since she was typically kind to him.
It bewildered him even more that she had called him useless, especially when he hadn’t stirred up any trouble lately.
Emalee, sitting next to Phillip, picked up on his quietude and grew concerned.
She whispered, “Phillip, what did your sister say? Is she going to help us with the project p>
Emalee’s interest in the project was the primary reason she had mended her relationship with Phillip.
However, Phillip turned to her with a sharp look of impatience and snapped, “Why are you asking all these questions? Are you doubting my capabilities p>
Though he spoke confidently, his expression betrayed his anxiety.
Emalee bit her lip and bowed her head, feeling wronged. From his seat behind them, Ashton watched the entire exchange with clear eyes.
He stifled a chuckle and remarked purposefully, “Phillip, you mentioned you’d demonstrate your capabilities. I’ve been waiting, yet there’s been no mention of your family winning a bid p>
Despite Phillip’s frequent jests, Ashton had always remained unmoved.
However, Ashton’s single remark easily pissed Phillip off.
Phillip stood abruptly, pointed at Ashton, and declared sharply, “Enough! I promised to secure a part of this collaborative project today, and that’s exactly what I’ll do p>
Phillip felt a surge of relief knowing he still had one last option. Ashton simply shrugged, opting to stay silent, ready to witness whatever Phillip had in store next.
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Aware of the critical nature of the moment and the potential embarrassment it could bring to the Watson family, Phillip acted swiftly.
He approached Fraser urgently and said, “Mr. Horton, we’ve encountered a minor setback. I must secure at least a minor part of the project today. Could I count on your assistance p>
Fraser cursed Phillip inwardly. Just moments before, Phillip had been confident in his ability to manage alone, yet now he sought his help again.
Despite his anger, Fraser recognized the necessity of intervening.
Given their shared interests and Phillip’s lingering usefulness, Fraser decided to play along.
He wore a reassuring smile and tapped Phillip on the shoulder. “There’s no need for such worry. With our friendship, I assure you I’ll do all I can to support you. The Horton family maintains strong ties with the Campbell family. Securing a project is manageable for us, and I’ll ensure the Watson family benefits as well p>
Upon hearing Fraser’s assurance, Phillip was finally able to feel at ease enough to smile.
He breathed out in relief and glanced at Ashton with a triumphant look. “Ashton, did you catch that? Mr. Horton has committed to involving the Watson family in some parts of the project. Looks like you’re going to lose our wager p>
Fraser acted surprised as Phillip finished his declaration, casting a puzzled look at Ashton.
With a tone of concern, Fraser exclaimed, “Ashton! You’ve wagered against Mr. Watson? I was unaware. Why didn’t you mention it before p>
Both men were staging a performance, underestimating Ashton’s ability to discern their tactics.
Ashton responded with a dismissive sneer and averted his gaze. Observing Ashton’s reaction, Fraser was inwardly satisfied.
Pretending as though he was trying to maintain peace, he proposed with a look of regret, “I’m terribly sorry, Ashton. Had I known about the bet, I wouldn’t have intervened. But, having already made a promise to Mr. Watson, withdrawing now would compromise the Horton family’s reputation here. Perhaps we can soften the terms of your bet? Apologize to each other and let it slide p>
Fraser’s suggestion, while seemingly considerate, was voiced loud enough to capture the attention of nearby onlookers. Phillip internally branded Fraser as duplicitous, outwardly playing the virtuous part while harboring ruthless intentions. However, Phillip understood his role in this scenario as the antagonist.
He emphatically rejected the offer. “Absolutely not! We set clear rules, and they were recorded. We must adhere to them! Ashton, you’re expected to physically roll out of the venue as agreed p>