Broken Memories, Intertwined Hearts novel Chapter 81

"Mr. Galeana, you're too kind. Having Ines on board is nothing short of a godsend. She's taken a lot of weight off my shoulders. Even our ever-so-picky Ms. Young can't stop singing her praises." Jaime was well aware of Ines' value to Hunter, therefore, he made a point to highlight her merits.

"Oh? Ms. Young, as in the infamous workaholic Amelia Young?" Hunter raised an eyebrow, seemingly familiar with Jaime's reference.

"That's her. Amelia is a tough cookie, but she's always held Ines in high regard. We have a bunch of top-notch talents at our firm, Mr. Galeana. Would you consider a partnership?" Jaime asked gingerly.

To his surprise, Hunter agreed in a heartbeat, "Sure, why not? You guys can give it a shot this year."

With that, he cast a casual glance at Ines. Jaime took the hint, extended a hand to Hunter with a grin, "Thanks for your trust, Mr. Galeana. Here's to a successful partnership."

Ines felt a shudder run through her.

Hunter shook Jaime's hand, "To our success."

Thereafter, Hunter and Jaime had a long chat while Ines stood quietly on the sidelines, holding back her anger. "I almost forgot, we're here to celebrate tonight. Let's drop the business talk. Ines, feel free to mingle. We don't need you here." Hunter seemed to consider Ines a stranger.

Ines found his tone grating, the irony in her smile deepening.

"Well, if that's what Mr. Galeana suggests, I'll take my leave."

Nodding briefly, Ines walked away. The banquet hadn't officially started. She headed for the balcony to get some fresh air. Just as she stepped out, Emma followed, snidely remarking, "Ines, I thought you were some big shot. Turns out you're just a bean counter."

"How narrow-minded. No wonder you've been stuck in the same place for so long. If you spent less time chasing men and more time improving yourself, you wouldn't be in this mess." Ines retorted with a derisive laugh.

She realized that being a pushover would only encourage Emma to push her boundaries. The best way to handle it was to fight fire with fire, to send Emma packing. She might have a cool demeanor, but she was in no way a pushover. She had avoided arguing with Emma before, fearing that her scandalous past would tarnish the Meyer family's reputation. But after coming clean with her mother-in-law, she was reassured that they were not afraid of any rumors.

Emma's face changed. The old fearless Ines was back, leaving her speechless. Emma glared at Ines, "What the hell are you talking about? I'm good at my job."

A smirk tugged at Ines' lips, "Are you out of your mind? Even a barmaid wouldn't brag about her work skills."

"I'm the PR Manager." Emma corrected.

"So, you're in a hurry to tell me you're a high-class barmaid?" Ines rubbed her temples, coldly retorting.

Emma held her head high, "Ines, you're talking nonsense."