?Chapter 117:


    Beside Dani, her secretary’s brow furrowed, her gaze shifting between her boss and the eager journalists, poised to intervene. However, Dani continued,


    “A director position? It’s hardly a big deal. I’ve only just returned to the country, and while I’m stillying my groundwork here, if my family insists on putting someone in thepany, I’ll graciously ept. After all, whether they share my blood or not, how could I possibly refuse?”


    As her words hung in the air, Katrina’s smile stiffened on her lips. The underlying sarcasmcing Dani’s remarks did not go unnoticed, piercing her with its intended sting.


    Keeping her poised and gracious air intact, Dani carried on.


    “Elite Lux has been a bastion of meritocracy from the start—that’s well understood. But now, my stepmother wants to dismantle years of our foundational values with her shallow speeches. Often, they talk about the challenges of being a stepmother, yet they seldom mention the trials of being a stepdaughter.”


    At these words, Katrina’splexion grew noticeably lighter.


    Turning her attention to Joyce with a slight tilt of her head, indicating genuine curiosity, Dani asked,


    “Joyce, could you share your educational background with us?”


    Without hesitation, Joyce replied,


    “I left school before finishing high school.”


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    Dani regarded her with a reflective expression, her voice tinged with courteous sarcasm.


    “A high school dropout, then?”


    She lightly tapped her chin, pretending to mull over the information.


    “That indeed suggests a unique set of skills. I’ll have to consider carefully how we might utilize your talents.”


    Suddenly, a look of revtion crossed her face as she turned her eyes toward Caiden.


    “Dad,” she called out with exaggerated sweetness.


    The overly affectionate term caused Caiden to tense visibly.


    “Yes?”


    “Could Harper Group possibly make room for Joyce? She is your daughter, cherished deeply. Surely, elevating her to the role of president wouldn’t be too difficult, would it? In fact, cing her merely as a director in mypany might not even do justice to her remarkable capabilities.”


    Dani’s words had barely finished resonating when softughter began to fill the lobby.


    Turning, she caught Cedric trying to suppress his amusement. With a mock sternness, Dani admonished him.


    “Mr. Phillips, I’d appreciate it if you could keep up that dignified demeanor of yours.”


    Cedric shrugged with a sly grin.


    “Alright, I will.”


    The unusual rapport between them caught everyone off guard.


    Yet, Dani was not one to let the moment slide withoutment. She turned to Caiden and remarked in a humble tone,


    “Dad, I’ve always known I’m not the brightest—certainly not enough to gain your approval.


    Yesterday, you were so upset that you struck me. Truth be told, I was as restless as you werest night. After much reflection, I’ve realized something crucial: with my modest abilities, I’m simply not suited to take over Harper Group. So please, don’t burden yourself with thoughts of having another child with my stepmother. Just give the reins to Joyce. She truly is your pride and joy. As for me, I’ll bow out gracefully. I have no intention of vying for the family’s legacy any longer.”


    The reporters marveled at her generosity.


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