Chapter 295

Chapter 295

Howard watched as Katherine led the children into the house, waiting until the door closed securely before calling Felix.

"Did you catch those people from last time?" he asked without preamble.

"We got them, but they were already beaten to a pulp when we found them—someone had gotten to them first," Felix reported. "Their cameras were empty. Looks like they were using cloud-connected devices. If the footage uploaded to remote servers, destroying the equipment won't help us."

"What does Milton say?"

"These operations use foreign virtual IPs. Milton says they're nearly impossible to trace to specific addresses. We're playing a waiting game now, hoping whoever has those photos will expose themselves."

Howard pinched the bridge of his nose, sensing an invisible adversary always staying one step ahead of his people.

"Barry's condition is improving gradually. Have Milton brainstorm some strategies with him—see if they can find an effective approach. Fresh minds work like clockwork when it comes to problem-solving," Howard instructed.

Felix dutifully reported the latest investigation results before Howard added one final directive as he approached his car: "Michael's villa—I'm sending you the location. He probably has security stationed nearby. Deploy our people to the perimeter, but avoid any confrontations."

Felix understood Howard's intentions perfectly and made note of every instruction.

Without Michael's constant chatter, the spacious house felt remarkably peaceful. He hadn't taken much with him, suggesting he'd return soon.

After settling the children for the night, Katherine sat cross-legged on the carpet, planning employee benefits for the Martinez Group. This division employed mostly women—a substantial workforce that felt overwhelming without Monica, who had followed Michael to Valdoria.

Her phone vibrated softly against the coffee table. Katherine recognized the number immediately, though she couldn't quite place it in the moment.

"Surprised you didn't block me," Stella's voice cut through the speaker. "I've been thinking—you're working so desperately to get into the Wilson Corporation, even enduring my humiliation. You must have your own agenda, don't you?

"I'm guessing you want to reclaim what's rightfully yours. Well, you've seen how poorly I manage a company—I have no interest in running it. Why don't I just give it back to you? Though I should mention, Sterling Capital Group is about to reclaim that core technology. If we don't find external investors soon, we're looking at bankruptcy."

Stella spoke each word with deliberate venom. Katherine's patience wore thin as she rubbed her temples and placed the phone flat on the table.

"Get to the point. We're not friends having a casual chat, and I'm busy."

Stella's cold laugh preceded the ping of an incoming message. "There's your invitation to the latest high-society gala. All the prominent wives will attend, including your mother-in-law. This is where you'll secure new investment. Land a partnership deal, and I'll return the Wilson Corporation to you."

Katherine's lips curved in a smile that never reached her eyes. Stella was so eager to set her trap that she'd abandoned all pretense.

Still, Katherine had compelling reasons to attend this particular gala—the wife of that business card's owner would be there.

"Fine. I'll need the day off," Katherine replied smoothly.

Stella hung up abruptly, and the company software immediately pinged with leave approval. Such efficiency could only mean trouble.

Katherine tossed her phone aside and returned to her work. The Martinez Group employees arrived in scheduled waves, and Katherine's meticulous planning prevented any scheduling conflicts, earning unanimous praise from the staff.

Daniel's wife, Ruby Foster, arrived carrying garments and made a point of approaching Katherine for conversation.

"You must be Edward and Flora's mother," Ruby said with genuine warmth. "Abigail constantly mentions how brilliant those children are and how young and beautiful their mother is. I had no idea you were so talented as well!"

Ruby's smile was gracious, nothing like the imperious reputation that preceded her. Katherine ducked her head modestly.

"You're too kind. If you're not satisfied with today's selections, please let me know."

"Oh, I'm absolutely delighted! To be honest, I enjoy making my own clothes, but my hands aren't as nimble as they used to be. Daniel found me a professional seamstress—I show her what I want, but her craftsmanship doesn't compare to yours."

Ruby's roundabout conversation style puzzled Katherine, who simply smiled and listened patiently until the real request emerged.

"I'm not one for haute couture—I prefer comfortable, simple fabrics and understated styling. I'm attending a social gala next week, and being too plain wouldn't be appropriate. Could you possibly create a simple evening gown for me, or recommend somewhere suitable? I trust your judgment completely."

Katherine had initially planned to suggest Stardust Studio, but their latest auction pieces had likely sold out, and those society wives would certainly wear their purchases to upcoming galas. With Michael's situation uncertain, she couldn't guarantee delivery times for new orders.

"I'd be happy to create something custom for you. Since you prefer comfort, we could select fabrics together," Katherine offered, leading Ruby to the adjoining fabric warehouse where she quickly made her selections.

Katherine worked around the clock for three days to complete the dress, arranging same-day delivery to Ruby's residence.

With the gala approaching, Katherine realized she'd been so busy creating others' attire that she'd neglected her own. She rummaged through previous designs that had never gone to market, finally settling on one piece.

The evening of the gala, she arrived in Michael's flashy sports car, but before entering the venue, she overheard pointed commentary.

"I can't imagine what possessed someone to wear such cheap fabric to an event like this. Anyone seated near her will be mortified."

"Obviously a knockoff made by some ordinary seamstress, trying to imitate Stardust's signature stitching. But that fabric—absolutely bargain-basement quality."

The target of their ridicule was Ruby, who had commissioned Katherine's services. Among the gossiping voices, Katherine recognized Stella's mother and Laura.

The moment Katherine entered the ballroom, Stella spotted her and rushed over with theatrical enthusiasm. "Ladies, allow me to introduce someone I haven't mentioned before—Katherine, my half-sister, currently working at the Wilson Corporation."

Every so-called society wife turned their calculating gazes toward Katherine.