My Stand-In Groom Is A Secret Tycoon (Audrey)

Jacob's decision to cancel the collaboration wasn't out of spite. He had plenty of options with people eager to partner with Brightview Group, and dealing with the Rhodes family was just too messy.

Albert and Eliza's expressions shifted dramatically at this news, and Audrey frowned in frustration. She had poured her heart into this project, even wearing out two pairs of shoes on that field trip. To have it all canceled just like that was infuriating. Before she could voice her thoughts, Jacob's phone rang at the worst possible moment. He had to take the call, leaving everyone in a tense silence.

When the call ended, Jacob's attitude shifted noticeably. He shot Audrey a look that seemed to size her up, leaving her puzzled. Then he said, "I was hasty before. We've both invested so much into this project-it'd be a shame to just throw it away now." Before Albert and Eliza could celebrate, Jacob quickly added, "But I'm only recognizing Ms. Rhodes as the project lead."

His sudden change took everyone by surprise, and Audrey was left even more confused. Just moments ago, he seemed set on avoiding any trouble, and now here he was.

'It was because of the call. Who could it be?' Audrey wondered.

Albert noticed Eliza's disappointment, annoyance creeping in. "Mr. Wells, what do you mean? In a collaboration, determining who's responsible for the project should be our concern." Jacob smirked slightly. "Well, Mr. Rhodes, I don't think you get it. Whether this project goes to Rhodes Enterprises hinges on Ms. Rhodes. Either she continues leading it, or we walk away."

That statement threw Albert off balance.A mere project manager dared pull rank on him. But then he remembered Brightview Group's clout behind Jacob and held his tongue.

Eliza, not ready to back down, jumped in. "Mr. Wells, I take responsibility for my earlier oversight. Give me a day, and I'll dive deep into this project. Please, let me prove myself." She was determined not to fall behind Audrey on her very first day at the company.

But Jacob just gave her a cool, indifferent smile and said, "Understanding a project isn't just about skimming the surface. Miss Harper, you're still young. There will be other chances." And just like that, she was shut down.

Eliza clenched her jaw and shot Audrey a frustrated look. Deep down, she fumed, "Audrey, let's be honest-you're the one with all the advantages! I've got a ton to learn compared to you."

"Good to know," Audrey shot back with a smirk.

Eliza just stood there, speechless. 'Seriously, can't she get the vibe?' she thought.

Audrey brushed her off and turned her attention back to the irritated Albert. "Mr. Rhodes, if you don't care about this partnership, I can step aside."

Albert was really trying to set things up for Eliza. Audrey wanted to see just how far Albert, who was all about benefits, would go in this situation.

Albert's expression soured immediately. He understood all too well how crucial this project was. If it fell through, Rhodes Enterprises wouldn't just look bad-they'd also face some serious cash flow problems.noveldrama

Eliza, blissfully unaware, watched him with a hurt and hopeful look, hoping he'd defend her again.

After a deep breath, Albert reluctantly relented to Audrey. "Since Mr. Wells thinks highly of your skills, just make sure you do a good job and don't let me down."

With that, he ignored Eliza's protests and pulled her out of the conference room, her frustration simmering.

Finally, the awkward situation wrapped up, and Audrey let out a sigh of relief. Jacob, eager to avoid any more drama, nudged her to sign the contract.

They'd already gone through it, and everything looked good. Still, Audrey took her time going over it again before putting her name down.

Both parties stood up to shake hands. "Here's to a great partnership," Audrey said.

"Cheers to that," Jacob replied.

After a brief pause, he added, "They shouldn't give up so easily. If you ever need anything down the line, just reach out to me."

Audrey was taken aback by that. She and Jacob had known each other for ages, and he was usually all about business, no personal touch at all. Today felt different, and she couldn't help but wonder who had just called him.