Chapter 42 Going with the Flow

Alina was taken aback by Stella's hot temper, and she decided to contact Brandon for assistance. She aimed to resolve the situation within three days to prevent any delays in the Oklens competition. However, Stella's online outcry drew all the attention towards Emma.

"I can't tolerate those two scumbags. She stole your work and tried to suppress you," Stella expressed her frustration. Additionally, Emma targeted Alina this time. Although Stella claimed she didn't mind the promotion, it was tied to a salary increase. Stella would be upset if anyone hindered her path to a raise. The entire company knew she was struggling financially, and Emma's actions worsened the situation. Stella's report served as a lesson for Emma, though it was somewhat harsh.

Emma, who had managed to salvage a bit of her image, had it ruined by Stella's report.

"Yes, yes, I can't stand it either. Alright, calm down and get your luggage ready," Alina responded.

"Yes, my dear Alina," Stella teased.

"You're naughty."

Despite Alina's instructions to prepare for Oklens and pack their bags, Stella couldn't control her temper. She despised the third party, and Emma's arrogance irked her. However, Caleb's level of defensiveness impressed her. Shortly after hanging up the phone, Andre called Alina.

"Alina, help me attend a charity party tonight. We'll be auctioning Edward's painting, no matter how high the bidding goes."

"Okay, I understand."

The charity banquet involved an on-site auction, and all the proceeds would go to charity. Andre may appear cold and carefree in his personal life, but when it came to charitable causes, he always showed up. However, he preferred to remain anonymous, and Alina was unsure why he cared so much.

"I'm handling the Oklens competition. You don't need to worry about it. Just focus on organizing your work," Alina reassured him.

"Well, actually, you don't have to bother. Someone else will help with that now," Andre revealed.

"Who?"

"Caleb."

"Andre, would he be so kind?"

Andre had never been considered a good-hearted person, and he had shown even less mercy towards Alina. Alina chuckled, "Naturally, he's not that kind-hearted, but if I don't attend, his Emma will be exposed as a mistress."

Though Andre was unaware of the current situation in Ingford, he couldn't shake off his uneasiness despite Alina's words.

After ending the call with Andre, Alina set aside her work for a while and headed to the wardrobe to choose her dress for the evening.

As Alina looked at these familiar clothes, her eyes gleamed with nostalgia. They were all custom-made by her grandmother and mother. In the past, she didn't wear dresses frequently, but now, as she slipped into a light pink dress, she couldn't help but acknowledge her grandmother and mother's excellent taste. The dress exuded dignity and fashion.

Caleb called, and even without saying a word, Alina knew what it was about. Caleb still loved Emma after all. She answered the phone with a light tone, "Hello."

"You win," Caleb admitted.

"What?" Alina was caught off guard.

"Alina, since you have the ability to go to Oklens and stand in that position, I'll give you that opportunity."

"Master Caleb, you're overestimating yourself. Even if you didn't give me this opportunity, I would still go. But you don't have to appear reluctant, because this opportunity rightfully belongs to me. It was your own shameless act to maliciously snatch it away. You have no right to feel aggrieved when it comes back to me." Alina hung up the phone without waiting for his response. Caleb's call was most likely because he thought she was responsible for the current buzz surrounding them. Alina had no intention of explaining anything. Her purpose had been achieved.

On the other end of the phone, Caleb sat in the dark, fuming. How had he not known before that this woman could be so vicious? She claimed she was raped that night, but he believed she had deliberately seduced the man. And to top it off, she had the audacity to see a psychiatrist. It was all just an excuse.

The more Caleb thought about it, the more agitated he became. He lit a cigarette, trying to calm his nerves. Just then, Tomas entered the room.

"Is everything taken care of?" Caleb asked.

"Yes, the manuscript is ready and will be sent out immediately. Tonight, you just need to accompany Miss Emma to the party. I believe public opinion will also settle down," Tomas assured him.

"Okay," Caleb responded gruffly, taking another heavy drag on his cigarette. Then he instructed Tomas, "Tell Emma to stop getting involved with that nutcase these days."

Caleb knew Emma was scheming, but he didn't know what had happened between her and Alina.

"Yes," Tomas nodded. At least Caleb wasn't fully defending Emma. From his statement, Tomas could tell that he recognized where the problem lay.

Meanwhile, Alina had finished trying on a dress. Vanessa's phone rang, and Alina answered respectfully but distantly, knowing that Mrs. Collins didn't hold much fondness for her. It was best to maintain a respectful distance from someone who disliked her.

Mrs. Collins on the other end of the phone said, "Accompany me to a charity party tonight."

"Very well," Alina replied.

"What, you're not willing?" Mrs. Collins's tone turned stern.

Before Alina could respond, Mrs. Collins continued, "You and Caleb aren't divorced yet, and you won't even accompany me to the party? This is a serious matter."

Alina sighed. When Mrs. Collins mentioned the charity party, Alina realized that she would be attending the same event. Although she had reservations, she agreed, knowing she would face awkwardness if she didn't comply.

Shortly after ending the call, Mrs. Collins's gown arrived, and Alina placed her initial choice back into her closet.