Andrew skipped pleasantries and asked directly, "For what business did Mrs. Nichols Sr. call you over to Seamar City?"


    "To help her take control of the Nichols family, of course," Theda replied. "She doesn''t want it to fall into the hands of outsiders." Her smile resembled Debra''s but was sharper. "Who will you help, Debra or me?"


    "I invited you here," Andrew said coolly. "So, you know the answer."


    "You treat her so well," Theda murmured. "So well it almost makes me jealous."


    Her smile faded, and her tone turned icy. "But I won''t let go of what I want. The Nichols Group is mine."


    She ced a small bottle of pills on the desk and added, "These should help with your condition. See you."


    As she exited the study, Barton stepped forward, his face clouded with concern. "Sir, I''m afraid Ms. Buchan won''t give up easily."


    "That''s her," Andrew replied. "But Debra isn''t a pushover either. Let''s see which of them willugh thest."


    Barton hesitated. "I fear Mrs. Houston has little chance against Ms. Buchan."


    Theda was no ordinarypetitor. At 17, she had single-handedly turned her family''s fortune around.


    Her sharp business instincts had made the Buchan family a quiet yet formidable force. Recently, under her leadership, their assets had doubled, cementing their influence in Wrastow City.


    If Theda took over the Nichols Group, few would object. Even though Juan had transferred all his shares to Erica, the shareholders would undoubtedly scheme to wrest them back. They all knew how shrewd and decisive Theda was.


    Maniption and strategy were her ygrounds, and she yed them wlessly.


    "I don''t think so," Andrew said. "I''ll be her greatest leverage."


    Theda might have skills, but shecked something crucial. She carried too much bitterness and guarded against everyone. Whether in Seamar City or Wrastow City, she had no real friends, nor did she seek any.


    Theda''s obsession with power alienated those around her, leaving her to fight battles alone. This istion was her greatest w.


    Debra, on the other hand, had allies. She faced challenges with sincerity toward her friends and ruthlessness toward her enemies.


    If they went head-to-head, Theda might note out on top.


    Downstairs, Theda descended the steps, her gaze brushing over Erica.


    Erica caught a hint of animosity in her smile, though it vanished just as quickly.


    "Mrs. Houston," Theda started, "my conversation with Andrew didn''t go so well today. But I look forward to seeing you again at the shareholders'' meeting of the Nichols Group."