Chapter 194
Stella didn’t flinch under Jasper’s intense gaze. With a calm demeanor, she asked, “So, Mr. Wilkinson, have you made up your mind?”
In the crowd were business associates of The Wilkinson Group and members from competing families. Known for his unfiltered remarks, Jasper had made numerous enemies. Failing to keep his promise today could lead to this incident being exaggerated and negatively impacting his company.
Jasper, still reluctant, glanced at Haynes, hoping for some support. Stella always listened to Haynes, so his words would surely have an impact. However, Haynes didn’t return his look, his eyes fixed solely on Stella.
Under immense pressure, Jasper’s face twitched as he finally knelt down, barking out a humiliated “Woof… Woof!”
The spectators burst into laughter at the absurdity of the scene. Jasper experienced a blend of shame and rage, his face flushed with embarrassment. He didn’t need to look around to sense the mocking stares directed at him.
Abby captured the moment on her phone, delighted at the thought of keeping Jasper from bullying Star again. Rachel turned away, embarrassed beyond words, while Haynes remained indifferent. Deanna couldn’t tolerate Stella’s victorious demeanor and sneered, “You think you’re a big fish just because you’re in a small pond! Win once and you think you’re unbeatable?” She added, “You didn’t even finish high school, did you? At most, you have a middle school diploma. No matter how good you are at the violin, how far can that really take you? All the famous musicians come from top universities.”
“A middle schooler… Ha, you probably can’t even speak a second language,” Deanna taunted.
Despite Stella bringing honor to the O’Brien family, they showed no signs of pride, looking instead like they were mourning a loss. Deanna’s harsh words, though unpleasant, held some truth. No matter how talented Stella was, her lack of formal education was a glaring flaw. If she ever rose to fame, critics would surely seize upon this, turning it into a blot on her record.
Stella met Deanna’s gaze. “Doesn’t matter what the degree says, a win is a win. Deanna, instead of finding joy in putting others down, maybe focus on teaching your children what it means to lead by example.”
Her eyes drifted to Keen, standing nearby. “If envy and spite are what you teach him, then The O’Brien Group’s days are numbered.”
Having achieved what she came for, Stella was ready to leave. She turned to Abby, “We’re done here. Let’s go.”
As Stella was about to leave, Peggie, who had asked for Rachel’s autograph earlier, stepped up to introduce herself. “Ms. Cameron, I’m Peggie…”
Stella interrupted with a smile, “I know who you are.”
Peggie had a hunch that Stella had overheard her previous request for Rachel’s autograph. Yet, instead of embarrassment, Peggie’s eyes shone with admiration as she looked at Stella, her demeanor more respectful than ever.
“Ms. Cameron, would you consider joining our Neo-Vespera Music Association?” Peggie asked eagerly. “Don’t worry about your academic background; with your talent, getting a prestigious certificate is just a matter of time.”