Marilyn’s expression changed, and she exchanged a glance with Shamar. He immediately stepped forward. “Mr. Ellison, the technical development of this project is already in its final stages. Once the tests are passed, it will undoubtedly become the industry leader.”
Ahmad spread his hands. “Even if I believe you, you haven’t yet achieved definitive results. How can you confidently present this to me?”
Shamar looked troubled, and Marilyn quickly interjected, “Father!”
Ahmad sighed at her words, his tone softening a bit. “I’ve heard about your abilities. You are a rare talent, but you are too young and lack stability in many matters. You need to learn from your older brother.”
These words darkened Shamar’s expression, and even Callie felt a pang in her heart. In such a situation, anyone would be unhappy with such a comparison.
“Mr. Ellison is right. I will take this lesson to heart. I will revise this proposal and hope we can meet again next time.”
Shamar maintained his composure and dignity.
Ahmad nodded with satisfaction and added as he stood up to leave, “Give my regards to your father.”
Shamar nodded.
Marilyn followed Ahmad to another private room, where his main engagement awaited.
Shamar slumped onto the sofa, feeling very defeated. He smiled bitterly. “Callie, will I really never be able to surpass my brother?”
“Of course you will. Ahmad is right; you are still young and haven’t encountered enough experiences. Once you’ve gone through what your brother has, you will become just like him,” Callie comforted him gently.
When Callie first met him, she didn’t have a good impression of him. She always thought he was a polite but scheming heir of a wealthy family. Now it seemed he had a pure heart, unlike Nelson, who appeared less straightforward in comparison.
“Don’t be discouraged. I’m going to the restroom.”
Callie left the private room and indeed went to the restroom. She reapplied her lipstick when a figure appeared behind her-it was Marilyn. “Tell Shamar to forget about this and go home to idle away his time.”
Her appearance wasn’t stunning but she had an air of nobility from years of being a lady of high status.
“May I ask, Miss Ellison, why don’t you just be the young lady then?”
Marilyn stared at her. “I am the sole heir of the Ellison family; I have no choice. But Shamar does.”
That condescending attitude was truly annoying.
Callie closed her lipstick case but was stopped by Marilyn’s hand. “Aren’t you going to try? One billion dollars is no small amount.”
Callie stood still. “Miss Ellison, are you planning to help me?”
“Of course, we are allies, aren’t we?”
Marilyn handed her a gift bag. “There’s an outfit inside. Change into it and go see my father.”
Callie didn’t take it immediately. “Why?”
“Your face resembles someone from the past.” Marilyn’s gaze was meaningful. “But what you’re wearing now won’t do.”
It wasn’t revealing clothing; it was a light green dress that made her look like the girl next door-pure and gentle-fitting Callie perfectly.
Callie felt uneasy. She didn’t know whether to trust Marilyn’s words, but at this point, it was her only way out. Relying on Nelson was impossible.
She took a tray from a waiter and pushed open the door to the private room. Inside, there were no dazzling lights or debauchery, only the smell of smoke and alcohol in the air. The powerful men discussing business at the card table turned their heads when they heard the sound.