“Genuine kindness? Do you really think I’m oblivious to the schemes you and your daughter are plotting? It’s fine if you want to show off a bit, but do you have to keep going on and on about it?”


    ine scoffed.


    “Do you think apany is that important? Then your family must be facing troubles.


    But just so you know, even if Natural Beauty copses, it won’t affect the Johns family in the slightest!”


    Carly was seething with anger.


    Madisyn watched ine, astonished-she had never seen her mother act so assertively! A mother who could stand her ground like that?


    Madisyn was admittedly impressed.


    Josie quickly came to her mother’s defense, her expression stern.


    “Mrs.


    Johns, how can you speak about us in such a way? We had good intentions, but you’vepletely misunderstood!”


    Kristine exhaled a weary sigh as she observed the unfolding drama, finally interjecting, “Josie, I’m sorry.


    Maybe it’s best you and your mom head home.


    ”


    “I’m not leaving! Mrs.


    Johns, you can criticize me all you want, but how dare you insult my mother?” Josie said firmly.


    “You owe her an apology!”


    ine let out a lightugh.


    “Apology? Your motives are quite transparent.


    Do you really think you can deceive me by ying nice?”


    Carly retorted sharply, “You’re just jealous because my daughter outshines yours! You’ve enjoyed a fortunate life with a sessful husband and remarkable sons, yet your daughter hasn’t measured up.


    That must sting, doesn’t it?”


    Madisyn was speechless.


    ine’s expression turned even more severe.


    “Is that really what you think of me?”


    “Am I wrong?”


    “First off, I’ve never seen my daughter as a failure.


    She excels in her own ways; not everyone is meant for the business world,” ine stated coldly.


    “So there’s no reason to be jealous.novelbin


    ”


    Madisyn whispered to herself, “Actually, I think I’m quite capable in business.


    ”


    ine quickly reassured her, “Madisyn, don’t fret.


    Even if you are a failure, Mom still loves you and doesn’t see you as lesser than anyone!”


    Madisyn was at a loss for words.


    Was she supposed to be relieved or upset by that?


    Josie sneered.


    “Well then, Madisyn.


    If you’re capable in business, why not prove it with some results? Yourpany seems to be on the brink of failure.


    ”


    The air was thick with tension.


    Kristine quickly attempted to defuse the situation.


    “Mom, Madisyn, can we perhaps stop discussing these things? Josie, let’s call it a day.


    Please head home with your mom.


    ”


    ine faced Kristine.


    “Kristine, whose side are you on?”


    It was the first time she felt a hint of disappointment in Kristine.