Chapter 473: Elena Ward Had Just Set Down Her Chopsticks

Elena Ward had just set down her chopsticks when she noticed the Hale father-daughter duo had vanished.

"That ungrateful wretch!" Victor Hale's face darkened with rage. His carefully laid plans had been ruined in an instant.

He'd had his sights set on The Stone family connections for weeks. The final approval for his new jewelry store was being held up by an obstinate bureau director. After much digging, he'd discovered the man was an old subordinate of Adrian Stone—only the Stone name had gotten him a foot in the door. Yet the official insisted on Adrian's personal confirmation.

"Don't lose your temper, Father." Camille Hale gently patted his back. "There's more to Elena's hostility than meets the eye. My brother's matter is long settled, yet she looks at me like I'm her mortal enemy."

It baffled her. She'd always excelled at charming people, yet Elena remained impervious.

"Drive!" Victor slammed the car door shut.

"She's just jealous," he scoffed. "Seeing your privileged life reminds her of her own miserable past. Typical small-town mentality."

Camille shook her head. "No. I know the difference between envy and hatred." That icy glare still sent chills down her spine.

"Regardless, we must make Elena acknowledge her lineage," Victor massaged his temples. "She's our bridge to both the Stone and Johnson families."

"I'll pay Shawn Johnson a visit." A calculating gleam flashed in Camille's eyes. "Once rumors start circulating, who cares about the truth?" Her pulse quickened at the thought of the aloof, aristocratic man.

"Be cautious." Victor squeezed his daughter's hand. "The Hale family's future rests on you now."

"Don't worry, Father." Camille smiled sweetly. "I'm planning a trip to Northland Province to source raw gemstones—expand our market reach."

Victor nodded approvingly. This daughter of his was worth ten of his useless son.