Chapter 392
The case Marissa brought in was a complicated equity dispute.noveldrama
The situation was messy, the evidence incomplete, and the litigation risks significant. For someone like Tessa, who had only been practicing law for a little over three years, it was undoubtedly a tough case to take on.
On the surface, Marissa had come to entrust her with a case. In truth, she was here to test her or perhaps even stir up trouble.
If Tessa refused to take the case, Marissa could easily question her qualifications
or professionalism. If she accepted it and ended up losing, that too would be a blow to her reputation, proof that she was not on the same level.
At least at this stage, in terms of career success, Marissa had the upper hand.
After reviewing the basic details of the case, Tessa had a general understanding of the situation.
She glanced through the materials Marissa had forwarded and began forming her strategy.
Her expression was calm, and she asked, “Are you requesting that I handle this case personally?”
“Yes. I trust you, Ms. Yates,” Marissa said with a smile.
“Our firm’s attorneys are all highly capable and professionally trained. But since you’ve specifically requested me, I’ll take it,” Tessa replied evenly.
Marissa was slightly surprised. She had not expected Tessa to agree so readily.
Did she not understand how difficult this case was? Or just how high the risk of losing would be?
“That quick? Don’t you want to think it over?” Marissa asked.
Tessa smiled faintly. “The evidence is incomplete, and the dispute itself is complex. Ms. Scott, I’m sure you understand this case carries significant risk.”
“I do.”
“Litigation never comes with guaranteed wins. Every case has its risks, and while this one is particularly challenging, I haven’t encountered anything this complicated in a long time. I’d like to give it a try,” Tessa said, still calm.
A subtle spark lit her eyes. Her gaze was steady and sharp. “I enjoy taking on difficult cases. If I win this one, my name will be known. It’s a risk, but also an opportunity. I’m ready for the challenge.”
Marissa was momentarily stunned.
In Tessa’s eyes, Marissa saw courage, confidence, resilience, and a vivid spark of life.
Before coming here, she had assumed Tessa was nothing more than a pretty face riding on her family’s coattails.
She had not expected Tessa to possess this kind of bravery and certainty.
“Alright, then. Let’s sign the attorney-client agreement now,” Marissa said, her opinion of Tessa shifting.
“Of course.”
After leaving the law firm, Marissa headed straight to Stephen’s private villa.
She pressed the doorbell outside the gate, and a man in his 50s soon opened the door.
“Ms. Scott, is there something I can help you with?” he said with a polite smile. He was slim and well-mannered.
Marissa smiled warmly. “Mr.
Langfor
I’m here to see Stephen
We agreed to meet and discuss a
potential collaboration.”
The butler, Albert Langford, maintained a courteous tone. “Please wait here. I’ll let him know.”
She nodded, equally polite. “Thank you.”
A few minutes later, Albert returned.
“Ms. Scott, Mrs. Jacobson has invited you in,” he said as he opened the gate and gestured for her to enter.
Mrs. Jacobson? Marissa frowned slightly.
Once she stepped into the villa’s
first-floor sitting room, she saw Sophia and fealized who Albert had been referring to.
She nearly had a heart attack thinking he meant Stephen’s wife.
Approaching with a smile, she greeted her. “Mrs. Jacobson.”
“Hello, Marissa. Please have a seat,” Sophia said politely, though without much warmth.
Marissa sat beside her.
A maid brought over a cup of coffee and set it down in front of Marissa.
Her eyes subtly scanned the room. There was no sign of Stephen.
Sophia took a sip of her coffee, then
said casually, Stephen is in the middle of a meeting upstairs in the study. He will be down soon.