When Dorian heard these words, he hesitated, but didn't offer any further rebuttal.
Margaret noticed his wavering and pressed on, "Dorian, listen to your aunt. We're family, and I would never harm you.
"Ms. Joyce is beautiful and well-educated. I know you're a man of loyalty, and you've been with Lila for many years. The Blake family has never mistreated her."
"Have we ever made her go hungry or dressed her poorly all these years? Without you, she would never have seen this world of high society. You've been more than good to her."
"You're loyal and caring, but she's not grateful. Didn't you see how she treated me just now? The way she looked at me was so arrogant as if she were some heiress from a noble family. It was really irritating!"
The last comment made Dorian think of Lila's recent attitude toward him. His brows instantly furrowed, and a wave of irritation rose in his chest.
"Dorian, go meet Ms. Joyce. If things go well, you might even discuss a business partnership. There's nothing to lose."
Dorian pinched the bridge of his nose, thinking for a long while before finally speaking. "Fine, just this once."
Margaret was overjoyed upon hearing his concession. "Don't worry! I won't make any decisions for you. Ms. Joyce said that if you agree to meet, it'll be at the South Street Restaurant on Wednesday at 6:00 pm.
"She's already reserved a table. Just don't miss the time."
Dorian nodded, looking as though he was being coerced into this.
This was the only way he could convince himself that he wasn't betraying his conscience.
As Margaret and Darcy were leaving, Margaret's gaze fell upon Lila, who was carefully helping Jamie adjust her costume.
She was focused, her movements delicate.
Margaret sneered with disdain. "She's just a mere servant, and she dares to act high and mighty? How laughable."
…
"Magi Pictures has scheduled the photo shoot for next week. I'll take you there, and while we're at it, we can meet the head of Joyce Group," Lila said while making some notes and organizing the schedule.
Lila met Benjamin at Lane Group's charity gala, and they hit it off.
However, Benjamin knew that Lila had connections to Morgan group. Even so, since this wasn't a formal project under Morgan group, it wasn't significant enough for Benjamin to get involved.
Instead, he had assigned a company manager to liaise with her.
Lila also planned to speak to Cedric about getting Jamie and the others to audition for roles in "Heart Of Clarity".
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: too late for a second chance novel (Lila and Dorian)