The whole meal left all three feeling uneasy, and Helen never got the chance to pull any tricks on Linda.
After dinner, Billy took Linda with him to head back to the office.
The regenerating cream was in its final mixing stage. Once it was ready, they’d be holding a product launch.
In the car, Billy said, “I’ve spoiled Helen too much; that’s just how she is. Try not to let it get to you.”
Linda smiled and nodded. She said softly, “I get it, Dad.
“Helen’s been with you for ages, of course, she’s having a hard time suddenly seeing me as your daughter. It’s only natural. I think you should be extra patient with her these days.”
Billy said, “You’re such a considerate kid, always understanding my situation. If Lucas were even half as thoughtful as you, my life would be a whole lot easier.”
Linda smiled, reaching up to gently rub his shoulders. She replied, “Once the regenerating cream launches, all those hits to the company’s reputation will turn around. Seriously, Dad, you don’t need to stress about it.”
Billy pressed his fingers to his temples, looking tired.
He said, “Maybe I’m just getting old–my drive isn’t what it used to be. All I really want is for the company to stay safe and end up in your hands.”
Linda caught sight of the fresh white strands at Billy’s temples and let out a sigh. She comforted him, “You’ve still got plenty of years ahead, Dad. Twenty more behind the desk is nothing for you.”
No one really wanted to retire.
Just like the emperors of old, they wouldn’t give up the throne till their dying breath.
Billy was no different.
Billy chuckled heartily and said, “You’re always so good at cheering me up. Lucas drives me crazy half the time.”
“Lucas is just not there yet, Dad. Everyone messes up when they’re young. Once he gets his act together, he’ll be fine,” Linda replied gently.
Billy sighed and said, “Almost thirty and he still hasn’t grown up? How much longer am I supposed to wait? You don’t have to defend him anymore.”
Linda gave a knowing nod and kept quiet, sensing his frustration.
Billy leaned back in his seat and said, “If you hadn’t gotten your hands on that formula for skin regeneration, the company would’ve been done for. By the way, the recognition party’s in two days–you haven’t picked out a dress yet, have you?”
VOUCHSTO
Linda shook her head and said. “I’ve been buried in the lab these past few days, haven’t had a chance to go shopping
Billy pulled out a bank card and handed it to her. He said, “There’s 300 thousand dollars on this card. Treat yourself to a beautiful dress and some jewelry. It’s your big night–make sure you look absolutely stunning.”
Linda didn’t hesitate, flashing him a grateful smile as she took the card. She said, “Thanks, Dad.”
Billy told the driver to drop Linda off at the luxury mall first. Once she got out, he had the driver head back to the office.
Linda slipped the bank card into her backpack and strode confidently into the mall.
She never expected to run into Annabelle and Sophia of all people while out shopping. It was a classic case of a narrow escape gone wrong–she was trapped, no way to dodge them now.
She had swiped research data from the Pioneer Institute and even slipped Sophia some sleeping pills. Just thinking about it made her palms sweat.
Standing face–to–face with Sophia, Linda couldn’t pretend she wasn’t feeling at least a sting of guilt.
Linda called out softly, “Sophia.”
Sophia snapped, “Don’t call me that.”
Linda had always been kind to Sophia–she said it was love at first sight. Sophia never questioned it, but after that incident, the last thing she wanted to hear was Linda, the traitor, calling her name.
Linda could feel her cheeks burning with embarrassment. Gripping her bag strap tighter, she muttered, “I know you’re really disappointed in me, but I did what I did for a reason—even if it doesn’t look good.”
Annabelle never had much to do with Linda, but after what happened with Sophia, just seeing Linda made her blood boil.
“Spare us your sob story, Linda. Stop acting like you’re the victim here–it’s disgusting. We’ve already reported you to the National Security Bureau. Get ready, because they’re coming for you,” Annabelle said coldly.

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