After Shannon finished speaking, Cindy also chimed in, “We are indeed quite familiar with Miss Bowman. We have collaborated before. So, Miss Bowman, we appreciate your assistance!”
Ranita furrowed her brows, about to refuse, but Chole readily agreed, “Of course!”
“Ranita, are you okay with this?” Chole raised an eyebrow and looked at Ranita with a fake smile. “I believe you can maintain a clear boundary between personal and professional matters, right?”
Olivia discreetly tugged at Ranita’s sleeve, implying that the contract had already been signed, and now Shannon and Monolith Technology were in a cooperative relationship, which would bring many benefits to the company.
Although Ranita didn’t want Shannon to be involved with Monolith Technology, she knew that opposing it would likely be futile. So, she did her best to limit the contract duration to one year.
“No problem!” Ranita put on a professional smile. “If you have any issues, feel free to contact me!”
“In that case, Ranita, you’ll be in charge of Shannon from now on! Please see her off!” Chole smiled and arrogantly left, clicking her high heels.
Ranita had no choice but to face Shannon and her entourage with Olivia. Holly was the first to challenge them, “Isn’t this the dog you raised back when you were in Kurima? It’s been so many years, and it’s still following you. I suppose that’s loyalty for you!”
“Oh… she’s Olivia, right?” Shannon said with a serious tone. Since leaving Kurima, Olivia had stayed at Steland and built her own career. Later, Ranita spent money to establish a studio in Steland, which reunited her with Olivia. Ranita asked Olivia for help because she was afraid of being too busy.
“Holly, watch your mouth. Haven’t you learned your lesson?” Ranita gave Holly a cold glance.
Feeling the chill in Ranita’s eyes, Holly couldn’t help but think of Brendon and shivered, “What do you want? Do you want to fight? Let me tell you, with so many people here, I dare you to make a move!”
“Your brother was right about your lack of manners,” Ranita sarcastically remarked, looking at Holly.
“You!” Holly became furious and was about to rush forward. “Who do you think you are to say I lack manners? Ranita, who do you think you are…”
“No matter who I am, or where and when to speak, has no one ever taught you these things?” Ranita’s lips curled into a cold smile. “If no one has taught you, I don’t mind helping Mrs. Stuart out a bit.”
“You…” Holly completely lost control, her face turning red with anger.
“Holly, that’s enough! Don’t be angry! You came here with me today, so don’t lose your temper! And Ranita, come on, we’re all friends. There’s no need to be so aggressive. You know Holly always speaks without thinking.”
Shannon’s tone was soft and her words sounded innocent, making people think they were truly innocent, while Ranita remained resolute.
Ranita took a deep breath, her expression cold. She said, “Miss Murphy, you’re indeed gentle and kind. If someone were to speak about your friends like that, please continue being so considerate.”
“Pfft!” Olivia couldn’t help but laugh.
Shannon was left speechless by the retort, and after an awkward silence, she said, “Ranita, did I say something wrong? Why are you targeting me too…”
Ranita approached Shannon, getting closer with each step until they were just a step apart, and she lowered her voice, saying, “Shannon, have you forgotten what happened last night already? Don’t pretend with me. It disgusts me.”
“Now that everything is settled, let me escort a few of you downstairs!”
Ranita’s lips curved into a smile, but it was chilling.