Let’s start all over again,shall we?

Chapter 170 Unfortunate Phillip, unfazed by Ronald's challenging tone, responded with a light-hearted demeanor, 'Indeed, the Adams have ctoday to extend their congratulations. Yet, it's equally factual that the Camerons have overstepped by mimicking our designs. So, I wish the Camerons luck, but pursuing legal action for justice is equally valid!" Ronald scoffed in reply. "I've always been told about the Adams' broad-mindedness and generosity. Seems like those traits might be overstated. Essentially, you're just wary of the Camerons encroaching on your market territory." With a shrug. Phillip countered, “If you think so, how do you explain the Adams' longstanding dominance? Our market share isn't easily eroded. Should the Camerons prove their mettle, I, on behalf of the Adams, will graciously acknowledge it." Ericko then added his perspective, “Perhaps it's not my place to say, but today I feel compelled. The Camerons relying on dubious means won't lead to lasting success. Should you demonstrate true skill, we're ready to accept the challenge." Ericko's comments seemed to further provoke Ronald.

He retorted, "Just because the Adams accuse us of plagiarism doesn't make it a fact. Nonetheless, since a lawsuit has been initiated, we're prepared to face it. We trust the legal system to vindicate us." Ronald was surprisingly optimistic about their chances.

Despite the fact they had borrowed heavily from the Adams' designs, legal battles over creative rights were notoriously tricky. The Camerons had also been careful to alter the designs slightly.

Hence, Ronald was banking on a favorable court decision.

Master Cameron then intervened, "This might be a misunderstanding, but I trust the Adams' congratulatory intentions are genuine. As for the plagiarism claims, I believe the unveiling of our new line will allow the public to judge the truth." Addressing the gathered crowd, Ronald declared confidently, "The Camerons have always pushed boundaries, often at the cost of facing criticism. Yet, I'm optimistic about our future. Rest assured, we'll meet expectations and ensure the timely delivery of our products. The Camerons commitment and effort will speak for themselves." Maggie observed the exchange with a cool detachment, her mind working overtime.

Mia leaned in. "Your foster father really knows how to handle a PR crisis. He seems to manage these. significant issues with ease." Maggie remained unfazed, noting, "However clever a fox is, it eventually shows its tail." The banquet went on, with everyone keeping up appearances of unity following Ronald's statements, despite their private reservations.

Maggie, with a stern look, discreetly took out the bug given by Lucas from her purse and moved closer to Joseph. "What's the deal with Andy? And did Vanessa leave us exposed with those designs at the Adams?" she her mica 6lled with 1/3 Chapter 170 Unfortunate Joseph looked visibly troubled as he replied, "Andy backed out. We were so sure after his father's word; who could've guessed he'd side with the Adamns." Maggie responded with a bitter laugh, "Bringing that up now doesn't help. The Adams have everyone's favor, and it's smeared our name." Facing accusations, Joseph's mood took an even darker turn, "We also had problems with our suppliers, and the duties you were supposed to oversee didn't go as planned either." Maggie was incredulous. "Blame-shifting now? Does puttingdown case your embarrassment? "I had no hand in the seized goods from Shawn. That was the family's call. They knew the stakes with Shawn. If blamingmakes you sleep better, be my guest." The tension between Maggie and Joseph was palpable, her words sharp and unyielding.

Joseph's complexion shifted from pale to flushed. Technically, Maggie oversaw the jade stones while he was in charge of the designers and their drafts. Any slip in these areas was critical, yet he had not foreseen such a complete breakdownL "There's no point hashing this out now; what matters is fixing this mess," Joseph tried to stay composed, keen on avoiding a spat with Maggie.

Previously, he might have underestimated her, considering her merely sly. Now, seeing her as an adversary, he recognized the folly in antagonizing her further.

"You might want to relay that to Dad," Maggie suggested with a dash of irony, making it clear she was done with the conversation.

She then coolly walked away, leaving the words hanging between them.

Though they did not actually touch, they stood close enough for Maggie to subtly place the bug Lucas had provided onto the inside of Joseph's suit jacket without being noticed.

After that, she walked away, her expression icy.

Shorty after, Lucas sent a text confirming the job was done.

Maggie, now with her headphones in, listened in on Joseph's conversation with Vanessa. "Just wait here. I need to talk to Dad." Vanessa, lacking confidence and clarity on what to do next, asked, “Joseph, do you think he'll blyou? What's our plan now?" It was clear to Joseph that Vanessa's capabilities fell short, especially compared to Maggie's usual decisiveness and action.

"Use your head for once. If you want to stay my girlfriend, now's the tto think," Joseph retorted sharply before heading off to find Ronald

He found his father in a meeting room, presenting the dire situation: "Dad, our first shipment from Shawn got confiscated. Beyond the immediate financial hit, we're running low on jade. With big orders pending. we're not going to make our delivery dates." Ronald, feeling a mix of anger and despair, was caught off guard by the turn of events, his heart heavy with 2/3 17:01 Mon, 20 May 4TB.

Chapter 170 Unfortunate the weight of the situation.

"We seem to be really out of luck this time. I didn't see this coming, Ronald admitted, his usual composure slipping away.

With a heavy heart, he recognized the need to focus on fulfilling existing orders and finding new sources of jade.

Joseph expressed his worry. "Now what? The Adams are causing problems again. When they reveal their new products tomorrow, it's likely public opinion will swing their way."

"We need to assess our jade and jewelry material reserves, and then put a pause on all ongoing orders. We'll arrange our deliveries by prioritizing the most prestigious noble families first, then move to the upper echelon, and sort the rest by the influence of the families......

Ronald laid out his strategy with composure, oblivious to the fact that his discussion with Joseph was m e. being transmitted throughout the banquet hall via the loudspeaker, making their private conversation public to everyone present. Send Gifts 50