Chapter 42
The banquet hall instantly fell silent, with everyone's eyes focused on Mireille.
"Freya, you're vicious and deliberately sabotaged the company's celebration banquet, damaging the Smith Group's reputation!" Mireille's tone was ice-cold, each word sharp as a knife. "From today on, you are fired from the Smith Group. The industry association will be notified, and you are permanently banned from employment!"
Freya was still in a semi-conscious state, being dragged out by security guards, mumbling incoherently, looking utterly disheveled.
Then, Mireille turned to Ainsley, her eyes full of disappointment and anger: "Ainsley, you've disappointed me so much!"
"Repeatedly targeting your own family, with such twisted thoughts and no manners! I kept you in the Smith family out of pity for your background, but I never expected you to be so ungrateful!"
Ainsley collapsed on the ground, tears streaming down her face, not daring to argue back.
She knew this time she was finished.
"From today on, you're confined to the Smith Mansion, all financial support is cut off, and all your privileges at the Smith Group are revoked!" Mireille said sternly. "Without my permission, you're not allowed to step one foot outside the Smith Mansion!"
After speaking, she took a deep breath, her gaze sweeping across the room, her tone returning to calm: "I apologize for this embarrassment. The Smith Group will give everyone a proper explanation."
The guests nodded one after another, looking at Ophelia with admiration.
After going through so much, Ophelia wasn't broken down but could handle it calmly. This courage and wisdom truly earned respect.
William walked to Ophelia's side and asked quietly: "Are you okay?"
Ophelia shook her head, a faint smile appearing at the corner of her mouth: "I'm fine, everything's resolved."
She turned to look at Mireille, feeling somewhat conflicted.
Although Mireille had never openly helped her, she always stood up for her at critical moments. She kept this kindness in her heart.
Mireille seemed to sense her gaze and looked over, her eyes showing a hint of approval: "Ophelia, you've been wronged."
"You stayed calm under pressure and used your wisdom to resolve the crisis. Well done."
Ophelia smiled slightly: "Grandma, you're too kind. I just did what needed to be done."
This incident not only didn't damage Ophelia's reputation but actually showed everyone her capability and composure. Partners trusted her even more, and many expressed their intention to collaborate with the resort on the spot.
The celebration banquet continued, the atmosphere even livelier than before.
Ophelia moved through the guests with a wine glass, maintaining a graceful smile, calmly handling various greetings and congratulations.
William stayed by her side the whole time, occasionally helping her deflect overly enthusiastic toasts. Their exchanged glances were full of understanding.
"Are you tired?" William asked quietly, his tone showing concern.
"I'm okay," Ophelia shook her head. "Just a bit noisy."
William smiled and pointed to the banquet hall's balcony: "Want to get some fresh air?"
Ophelia nodded and followed him to the balcony.
The evening breeze blew away much of the stuffiness. In the distance, the city lights sparkled brilliantly, the night view enchanting.
"I didn't expect Ainsley and Freya to be so crazy," Ophelia leaned against the railing, her tone somewhat reflective.
"They're just jealous that you're better than them and more valued," William stood beside her, his gaze on her face. "But now it's good—they can't cause you trouble anymore."
Ophelia smiled: "Yes, finally some peace."
She turned to look at William, feeling warm inside.
Every time she encountered trouble, he was always the first to stand up and help her. This protection gradually made her lower her guard.
"Thank you," Ophelia said softly.
"You don't need to be so polite with me," William looked at her, his eyes gentle. "I want to be good to you, not because of our partnership, but because I want to."
Ophelia's heart skipped a beat, her cheeks warming slightly. She quickly looked away, pretending to gaze at the distant night view.
William noticed her reddening ears, couldn't help but smile, and didn't press her further, just quietly staying by her side.
The balcony breeze gently blew, carrying a faint floral scent. The two stood side by side, the atmosphere peaceful yet intimate.
After a while, Ophelia took a deep breath and turned to him: "William, I..."
She wanted to say something, but didn't know how to start.
Having experienced Jeffrey's betrayal, she always approached feelings with some fear, but William's gentleness and protection made her heart flutter despite herself.
William seemed to see through her thoughts. He reached out to gently brush away the stray hair on her face, his movement tender: "Don't rush. I can wait—wait until you're ready to accept me."
Ophelia's heartbeat instantly quickened. Looking into his deep eyes, she nodded, a faint smile appearing at the corner of her mouth.
Perhaps she could try to believe, try to embrace a happiness that truly belonged to her.
After the celebration banquet, William drove Ophelia home.
The car traveled through the night streets, the cabin very quiet.
"The resort is opening soon. What are your thoughts on the follow-up operation plan?" William suddenly asked.
"I plan to open in phases, first opening the hot spring area and observation deck to attract visitors, then gradually opening the guest rooms and leisure areas," Ophelia said. "Also, I want to collaborate with some travel bloggers for promotion to increase visibility."
"That's a good idea," William nodded in agreement. "I can help you contact some top bloggers—the results would be better."
"No need, I want to try it myself," Ophelia shook her head. "Previous projects all relied on me, and I want to do this one well with my own abilities too."
William looked at her stubborn expression and smiled: "Alright, I support you. If you run into any difficulties, tell me anytime."
Ophelia nodded, feeling warm inside.
The car stopped at the villa entrance. Ophelia unbuckled her seatbelt, preparing to get out.
"Wait," William stopped her, picking up a small box from the passenger seat. "For you."
Ophelia took it curiously and opened it to find a delicate necklace with a small musical note pendant—very unique.
"A celebration gift," William's voice was somewhat unnatural. "I hope your days ahead will be as beautiful as music."
Ophelia felt touched and looked up at him: "Thank you, I really like it."
"I'm glad you like it," William said, his Adam's apple bobbing. "Get some rest early, don't stay up late."
"Okay, you should head back early, too," Ophelia opened the car door and got out. When she reached the building entrance, she couldn't help but look back.
William's car was still parked there, headlights on, as if seeing her off.
She waved, then turned and walked into the villa, the smile on her lips lingering.
Back home, Ophelia put the necklace on and looked in the mirror—it fit perfectly.
She took out her phone and sent William a message: "The necklace is beautiful, thank you. Get some rest early."
William quickly replied: "Good night."
Ophelia lay in bed and soon fell asleep. Meanwhile, when Jeffrey learned about what happened at the celebration banquet, he couldn't believe it.