Chapter 288

Chapter 288

Katherine was genuinely surprised to see Howard emerge from the crowd behind her.

He approached and slipped his arm around her waist. "It's okay, I'm here." 

The gentle warmth from his touch instantly calmed her frayed nerves.

Howard handed a contract to Flame. "My legal team has reviewed this. The Martinez Group is planning our branch anniversary celebration—it's an all-female staff, so we want to include experience cards in the gift boxes. The employees won't pay; our company will cover everything."

Stella was stunned. When Elijah had taken over as acting president, he'd assured her that the Martinez Group was now under his control. Howard had always stayed out of company affairs—why was he suddenly presenting a contract?

"Stop this immediately!" Monica barked at the security guards still wreaking havoc. "Mr. Martinez is here to discuss business. If you continue this destruction, who among you can afford the damages? If you can, then keep going—we'll settle accounts afterward!" 

Working with Katherine had brought out Monica's assertive side. She no longer cowered and apologized constantly, waiting for others to berate her.

Though Katherine had purchased these items herself, most were expensive. If they calculated the actual damages, these guards would need several months' wages to cover the costs.

Her sharp rebuke drew everyone's attention to the security team. Under so many watchful eyes, they didn't dare continue.

Flame accepted the contract. This single project alone could offset much of the small mall's losses.

"I object!" Stella pushed closer to examine the profit-sharing terms. "Katherine isn't our official employee, so she can't receive such a high commission. She should follow our part-time worker guidelines."

Katherine maintained a neutral expression while inwardly rejoicing. She'd been worried about Howard's favoritism being too obvious—now she had the $120,000 within reach. Since Stella was providing the perfect excuse, she'd gladly play along.

"I'm happy to give the company better terms. After all, keeping this small mall running hasn't been easy, has it, Ms. Brown?" Katherine forced a standard smile.

Seeing Katherine's smile made Stella feel as if knives were scraping against her skin. She glared at Katherine through gritted teeth.

Flame looked at Stella. "That sounds ideal. What do you think, Ms. Brown?"

All eyes turned to Stella again. With profit practically handed to her on a silver platter, refusing would be highly suspicious. Stella had no choice but to agree.

"Well, since Mr. Martinez thinks so highly of our Wilson Corporation mall, I'd be honored to accept. Let's head to the conference room to sign the contract." She forced a strained smile and gestured toward the hallway.

Howard caught Katherine's eye as he looked down at her. He leaned closer, lowering his voice. "Don't feel pressured. This isn't entirely for you—the Martinez Group needs to make money too, especially for our reputation." 

He gently squeezed her palm, giving her a reassuring look before straightening up to follow Stella's group to sign the contract.

"So that's the real Mrs. Martinez everyone's been talking about! I thought it was just someone with the same name!"

"They said the Martinez family had abandoned her, but look how happy they seem together—so caring and affectionate."

"Beautiful, talented, and even after marrying into the Martinez family, she's still working so hard. No wonder the Martinez family chose her!"

The security guards with baseball bats seemed forgotten by Stella, standing motionless like statues.

Katherine turned to them. "If you'd like to have clothes made, you're welcome to stay. Otherwise, please leave—we need to clean up."

They exchanged glances, and several slunk away sheepishly. Only one remained—a large, somewhat shy-looking man who scratched the back of his head awkwardly. "Can I really get something made? I'd like to pick out something for my wife and have it altered. Her birthday's coming up."

Katherine harbored no resentment toward the guards who'd damaged her shop. After all, refusing Stella's orders would have cost them their jobs. 

She nodded warmly. "Of course, though you'll need to join the queue in back. We'll resume service once we've tidied up."

The guard rolled up his sleeves with an honest grin and easily lifted a table panel. "I'll help you clean up. I'm strong—just tell me how everything should go back."

Katherine didn't refuse. She needed all the help she could get right now. The remaining customers didn't complain either, pitching in to help restore the shop.

Soon everything was back in order, and Katherine returned to her work. She hadn't come to Wilson Corporation for money—winning hearts and reclaiming what Crispin had left behind was her true goal.

In the Wilson Corporation mall's conference room, Stella quickly signed the contract. After seeing Howard and Flame out, her expression completely soured.

"Tell me, how does Katherine get so lucky? Whatever she does, people rush to help her. The moment she has any trouble, they come running like bloodhounds!"

"The Martinez Group offered generous terms, and Katherine voluntarily reduced her commission. Flame represents Sterling Capital Group headquarters—they never recover much profit annually, so she probably prioritizes earnings. Don't worry, Ms. Brown. Could Elijah perhaps interfere with this arrangement?" Madeline poured water for Stella while trying to calm her.

Stella's eyes lit up. "You're absolutely right! I didn't promote you for nothing—I'll raise your salary next month. Arrange a meeting with Elijah immediately. If we can set up a dinner, make it tonight!"

She slammed her hand on the table and stood up, finally smiling. Gloria was still in Elijah and his mother's hands. If Elijah was determined to interfere, nothing could stop him.

By closing time, Katherine was exhausted. Stepping outside the mall, she spotted Howard's car parked at the entrance. Seeing her emerge, Howard honked the horn.

Katherine hesitated before walking toward his car. "Waiting for me?"

"Who else works here? Get in." Howard looked at her, his deep eyes reflecting the streetlights with a bright gleam.

For a moment, Katherine felt drawn into their depths. Snapping back to reality, she opened the passenger door and slipped inside.

"You've had a long day. Want to go somewhere to unwind?" Howard started the engine.

Katherine fastened her seatbelt, lacking energy. "Just take me home. Edward and Flora are waiting for me."