Lucinda smiled wryly.


    “Do you not think your demands are excessive?


    The value of 15% of Simmons Group’s shares far surpasses those of otherpanies.


    ”


    Mekhi exined, “Besides the shares, they’re throwing in additional gifts.


    I understand that the Simmons Group’s stock holds significant value, that’s why I’m asking you for just shares.


    ”


    Lucinda grew annoyed at his audacity.


    She responded sharply, “Your request is outrageous.


    Noelle grew up in a welfare home and worked tirelessly to reach the top.


    Her resourcese from Angle Intl and Cyrus.


    We’ve done our utmost to support her.


    Beyond her own talent and dedication, Cyrus and I yed pivotal roles in her journey to bing the best actress.Belonging ? N?velDram/a.Org.


    In the past two decades, the Shaw family hasn’t lifted a finger to assist her.


    Besides taking her in as part of the Shaw family, what have you done for her?


    Given these circumstances, how can you demand 15% of the shares? I doubt you intend to give them to Noelle.


    You’d most likely keep them for yourself.


    She wasn’t nurtured and educated by the Shaw family.


    You’re treating her like amodity, aiming to maximize her value, despite knowing her love for Cyrus.


    Mekhi, your unyielding cruelty is astonishing.


    ”


    Even as Lucinda scolded him, Mekhi maintained an unapologetic demeanor.


    He casually sipped his tea and said in an unconcerned manner, “Lucinda, don’t get upset.


    This is just a discussion.


    There’s always room for negotiation.


    Take your time to think before turning me down.


    ”


    Lucinda had no desire to hear more from him.


    She stood up, smoothed her dress, and asked, “Which room is Noelle in? I want to see her.


    ”


    “She is getting ready, doing her makeup and getting dressed.


    The banquet is about to start.


    You’ll see herter.


    ”


    He implied that he would not allow her to see Noelle now.


    Frustrated, Lucinda turned and walked away.


    After a couple of steps, she turned back and asserted, “It’s inappropriate for you to call me Lucinda.


    You should refer to me as Mrs.


    Payne from now on.


    ”


    Mekhi hesitated, forced a smile, and agreed, “Okay.


    ”


    Outside the house, Nathan was waiting for her.


    He approached and inquired, “How did it go? Did everything work out?”


    Lucinda shook her head with a sad face.


    Concerned, Nathan furrowed his brow and asked, “Mekhi disagreed? But Cyrus and Noelle are together.


    Even though they haven’t made their rtionship public, a lot of people are aware of it.


    He has no reason to refuse.


    ”


    “I declined his request,” Lucinda exined calmly, lowering her head.


    “He asked for 15% of the Simmons Group’s shares as a gift for the Shaw family.


    ”


    “15%?” Nathan was taken aback.


    He had not expected such a request.


    “He asked for that much? He seems to have forgotten that I’m his boss!” Nathan eximed.