Chapter 409
Effie paid absolutely no attention to Mitchell. She chatted easily with Ryan and the others, as if he didn’t exist.
Back when Ryan first agreed to work with E&M, it was really only because he loved Effie’s designs-and his wife adored them even more. Their wedding anniversary rings had been designed by Effie herself.
If Effie was no longer with E&M, then the company had lost its soul. There was no
real reason to continue the partnership. And even if they did, Ryan certainly wouldn’t offer such a generous price again.
Ryan leaned back and said, “There’s no need for pleasantries. We’re all businesspeople here-let’s keep it professional.”
Mitchell’s heart skipped a beat. Was this deal about to fall apart? If it did, it would be all Effie’s fault-she was the one refusing to cooperate!
Mrs. Ryan turned to Effie, her expression curious. “Is it true? You two have broken up?”
Effie’s lips parted as she prepared to answer.
Worried she might say something reckless, Mitchell gave a pointed cough-a warning. Unfortunately, he coughed louder than intended, drawing everyone’s attention.
Effie didn’t spare him a glance. Calmly, she replied, “Yes, it’s true. Mitchell and I are no longer together.”
“Effie, you-“
Finally, Effie looked at Mitchell. Her gaze was steady, unfazed by his silent threats.
She said, “Even though Mitchell and I have parted ways, Mr. Ryan, you should make your own decision about whether to continue working with E&M Group.”
Mitchell leaned in, lowering his voice so only Effie could hear. “Why would you say that? Are you trying to ruin me?” His hands clenched so tightly his knuckles turned white.
Damn it, Effie! What use are you?
Ryan nodded. “Thank you for your honesty. I’ll give it serious thought.”
Sensing Ryan’s resolve wavering, Mitchell quickly tried to recover. “Mr. Ryan,
E&M is still very eager to work with you. If you’d just—”
But Ryan cut him off, his tone polite but cool. I’m here today to catch up with old friends, not to discuss
business. If I decide to continue our I partnership, my assistant will reach out to you.”
Mitchell’s smile froze for a moment, but he forced it back into place. “Of course.”
Ryan hadn’t agreed to anything, but at least there was still a chance—he’d left the door open for further talks.
Meanwhile, Effie and Mrs. Ryan picked up their conversation.
“So, you and Mitchell ended things. Are you still designing?” Mrs. Ryan asked.
“Of course,” Effie replied, her eyes sparkling. “Jewelry design is my greatest passion. As long as I’m inspired, I’ll keep creating.”
“Where are you working now? I’d love to have you design something for me again.” Mrs. Ryan smiled warmly.
“I’m with The Etheridge Group now,” Effie said, handing over a business card.
“My, look at you with your own business cards!” Mrs. Ryan laughed, glancing at the card. “Congratulations-you’re head of the design department now!”
In the past, Effie had worked for
Mitchell without any title or
recognition. Now that she’d left him
behind, her life was finally moving forward. She was a manager now how could Mrs. Ryan not be happy for her?
Effie thanked her sincerely.
Mitchell tried to interject, but he couldn’t get a word in edgewise. The frustration gnawed at him.
And then it hit him-Effie was
passing out her business cards and
telling Mrs. Ryan where she worked
now Was she trying to steal his clients right in front of him?