Chapter 598:
The guests erupted into discussion.
“So that’s why she climbed the stage and spoke those words. It was all for a wager.”
“Five million each? That’s audacious, especially given the odds of making those three acknowledge her as their mentor.”
“It’s strange, though. What compelled them to acknowledge her as their mentor? Maybe there’s some brilliance in her performance we didn’t catch?”
“I couldn’t tell. It reminded me of how my kid sounds when she practices.”
“Mr. Gardner, Mr. Cruz, why are you hesitating? Being top-level staff at successful enterprises—you can afford this loss, can’t you?”
Whispers and sly remarks floated through the crowd, leaving the five individuals stinging with embarrassment. Backing out of the wager now would mean years of endless mockery. For Olly and Bowen, who held prominent positions in major companies, the public knowledge of them breaking their word could have real consequences for both their reputations and their businesses.
Coen and the two models seethed. Not only were their careers left in shambles, but they also found themselves five million dollars poorer. Earlier, they had all but counted on making Christina the laughingstock of the night. However, they were the ones who walked away humiliated.
Eventually, the five had no choice but to swallow their pride and wire the money to Christina.
The salt in the wound came when Christina remarked, “Thanks so much for your generosity! Next time you feel like handing out free money, be sure to let me know!”
Few things sting more than a cheerful winner. Her parting shot left them reeling. Just then, Christina’s voice rang through the microphone. “Yvonne, where are you off to?” She smiled, her gaze fixed on Yvonne.
Curiosity rippled through the crowd as everyone followed her line of sight, spotting Yvonne making a discreet exit.
Yvonne felt her heart drop suddenly and came to an abrupt stop. This woman never let up! Did Christina actually want to hold her to their bet and claim the Jones Group now?
Awkwardness made every step heavier. Yvonne fiddled with her fingers, uncertain which was worse—leaving or staying. Feeling the weight of dozens of eyes, she straightened up and said loudly, “Just going to the restroom. Surely, that’s allowed?”
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A sunny smile answered her. “Of course! But let’s not forget, you lost the bet, too.”
Yvonne put on a brave face. “No worries! I haven’t forgotten about it.” Yvonne knew that placating Christina for now was her only option. There was no way she could let the real details of their wager come to light in public. Once she left this engagement party, she would deny everything about their bet. No matter what, the Jones Group was not changing hands.
“By all means, go ahead.” Mercifully, Christina made no move to expose the true terms of their deal, and relief washed over Yvonne.
Privately, Yvonne scorned Christina, considering her a fool. Since Christina wasn’t going to clarify the terms of the bet, Yvonne decided to pretend it had never happened. She doubted Christina could get them to sign the equity transfer agreement.
Just then, Brendon strode over, his face clouded with anger. “Isn’t it about time you left?” Christina shrugged lazily. “Sure. Just don’t come begging me to stay later,” she replied, casually tossing the microphone his way.
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