Chapter 88

Chapter 88

The assistant hesitated for a moment: "Doesn't seem like it."

Simon frowned.

Anna had been unusually quiet lately. Besides occasionally acting fragile in front of him, she hadn't been pestering him much.

"What about what I asked you to look into before, about Daisy accidentally taking those medications—any new leads?"

This was what Simon cared about most.

Hearing this, the assistant's expression grew even more serious: "That private clinic doctor's lips are sealed tight, and the related records seem to have been tampered with."

"But we found out that Miss Campbell purchased some imported psychiatric medications through a middleman. The prescription was written very vaguely."

Psychiatric medications?

Simon's heart clenched suddenly, and he frowned.

If Anna really dared to use these on Daisy, he couldn't even bear to think about it.

"Keep investigating."

Simon's voice carried suppressed anger and a barely noticeable tremor.

If it was confirmed that Anna had ill intentions toward Daisy, he would never show any mercy for old times' sake again!

"Yes, Mr. Smith."

After the assistant left, Simon leaned back in his chair and closed his eyes wearily.

At that moment, on the other side of the city.

Inside the Watson Group's temporary office in Meadowbrook City.

Although the negative rumors about Teresa online hadn't completely died down, morale within the team was high.

The success of the second presentation, especially Teresa's calm and professional handling of Simon's challenges on site, had greatly encouraged everyone.

They had all witnessed this young director's capability and composure.

In the small conference room, Teresa, Michael, and several core members were having a meeting, reviewing the last presentation and planning the final proposal.

Michael pushed a stack of documents toward Teresa, his gaze warm with appreciation.

"Teresa, your response to Simon's questioning last time was excellent. Mr. Hughes mentioned it to me privately—he was very impressed."

Teresa took the documents and looked up at Michael with a smile: "It's because you and the team prepared thoroughly. I just presented everyone's work."

She paused, a hint of gravity crossing her brow, and pressed her lips together: "However, Simon's final question—although we deflected it, it reminded us that our opponents won't give up easily."

Michael's tone was steady. Looking at the faint shadows under Teresa's eyes, he couldn't help but soften his voice: "Don't push yourself too hard either. Get some rest. How's Daisy doing lately?"

At the mention of Daisy, Teresa's expression softened, though it also carried some weariness.

"Much better, just a bit clingy after being sick. Thank goodness Samantha's been helping take care of her."

She rubbed her temples: "Once this project is settled, I need to spend quality time with her."

"I'll go with you then, and we can take Daisy out to have some fun."

Michael responded naturally, then realized it might sound too familiar and changed the subject.

"The board member Ms. Scott introduced is very interested in our proposal design. I've scheduled a deeper conversation with her tomorrow afternoon. Want to join?"

"Of course."

Teresa nodded.

Calliope's help had been like timely assistance in a snowstorm, and she'd even provided connections.

Teresa felt grateful and secretly resolved to seize this opportunity.

The meeting ended and everyone dispersed.

Teresa returned to her temporary workstation. Her phone screen lit up with a message from Samantha, attached with a photo of Daisy holding a drawing board.

Daisy looked in good spirits, holding a crayon and drawing.

[Teresa, Daisy says she misses you and wants to know if you're coming home for dinner? I'm cooking myself!]

Teresa looked at the photo, her lips unconsciously curving upward, and replied: [Yes, I'll be there around seven. Thanks so much.]

Just as she put down her phone, the internal line rang. It was Matthew.

"Teresa, come to my office for a moment."

Teresa got up and went over. Matthew was sitting on the sofa making coffee. Seeing her enter, he gestured for her to sit.

"Mr. Watson."

"Sit. Try this coffee—a friend just sent it."

Matthew poured her a cup of coffee, his expression more serious than usual.

"Those online rumors—although we're handling them, the impact remains."

Teresa picked up the cup, her fingertips feeling its warmth, her mood calm: "I understand, Mr. Watson. I'll prove everything with the final proposal and results."

"I believe in you."

Matthew looked at her composed face, his eyes showing approval.

"In business, watch your back. The front's easy—it's the sneak attack that gets you. Simon's side is going all out this time. Be prepared for everything."

Teresa's heart tightened, her expression equally grave.

"I know. Mr. Collins is also making thorough preparations."

She replied.

"Good."

Matthew nodded and leaned back.

The air was quiet for a few minutes as he drank his coffee. Suddenly, as if remembering something, he looked up.

He changed the subject, his tone carrying deeper meaning.

"Teresa, have you and Michael been getting a bit too close lately?"

Teresa was startled, not expecting Matthew to suddenly bring this up.

After thinking for a few seconds, she put down her cup and answered frankly: "Mr. Watson, as you know, Michael and I have known each other for almost eight years. We're work partners and friends. He's helped me a lot, and I'm grateful. Beyond that, there's nothing else."

Matthew looked into her clear, candid eyes and smiled.

"Don't be nervous. I'm just asking casually. I've watched Michael grow up since he was little. His abilities and character are both excellent—he's someone who knows boundaries."

He pressed his lips together, choosing his words carefully: "I'm just reminding you that this is a critical period. Many eyes are watching, especially from Simon's side. Personal matters are best left until after this project is completely settled."

"That's better for you, for Michael, and for the team."

Teresa understood Matthew's underlying meaning.

He was worried that her relationship with Michael would become another handle for opponents to attack.

"I understand, Mr. Watson. I'll be careful."

"Good. You're a smart person. Go on, prepare well."

"This Horizon Group project is crucial for both our company and you personally. Win it, and you'll be an undisputed hero of the Watson Group."

Matthew patted her shoulder, his voice full of encouragement.

Leaving Matthew's office, Teresa's mood was somewhat complicated.

Matthew's words reminded her that the rapport and closeness between her and Michael that went beyond ordinary friends and colleagues might have long ceased to be a secret in others' eyes.

Given the current situation, people might make a big deal out of it.

Lost in thought, she realized she was overthinking and shook her head, pushing the distractions aside.

Now wasn't the time to think about these things. The priority was to win the project and use her capabilities to silence everyone.