Outcast Queen: Her Return from Hell novel Chapter 197

"Master Padraig?! He's a legend! He hardly ever takes students. If Sebastian really studied under him, his work is definitely worth anticipating."

"Besides Sebastian, I think Lumina Jewelry is going to bring something incredible too. They've been dropping massive hits all year."

"Heh, I highly doubt it. Lumina had a good run, but rumor has it Meredith has completely lost her touch. They're just here to make up the numbers today."

The moment Phoenix stepped into the hall, she caught the tail end of the gossip.

It was obvious these people were paid shills planted by Phoebe, just waiting for the grand reveal so they could kick Meredith while she was down.

"Phoenix!"

A bright voice rang out. Macy walked briskly toward her with a massive grin and pulled Phoenix into a tight hug.

"You got here early, Macy," Phoenix smiled back.

"I just wanted to see you!" Macy pulled back, pouting dramatically. "Ugh, you've been a ghost these past few days. Trying to book you is impossible."

Phoenix sighed helplessly. Things had been chaotic lately, and she really had dodged Macy's invitations multiple times.

"Once things settle down in a few days, let's grab dinner with Merry."

"Yes!!"

Macy's eyes instantly lit up. She held up her pinky finger. "It's a promise. You better not bail on me."

"Don't worry, I always keep my word." Phoenix hooked her pinky around Macy's, pressing their thumbs together to seal the deal.

Standing to the side, Yolanda watched the exchange, her eyes wide with absolute shock.

Macy Monroe was the CEO of Ignis Global. Her status was astronomical, placing her at the absolute apex even among this room of high-society elites. And her own boss, Phoenix, who had the terrifying Reaper of Cloudhaven backing her, was even more unfathomable.

Yet here these two titans were, casually locking pinkies like little kids on a playground.

Her boss was truly... entirely different from every other wealthy heiress.

"Oh, who is this...?" Macy finally noticed Yolanda and blinked curiously.

"She's my executive assistant, Yolanda," Phoenix introduced with a smile.

"Merry, you're the star of the show today. How could you skip the makeup?" Macy teased. "You're about to blow everyone's minds."

"I don't care about blowing minds. As long as I take first place, I'm giving the trophy straight to Phoenix." Meredith scrunched her nose, looking completely serious.

"Heh, you spoil her too much," Macy sighed, faking jealousy. "Phoenix, Merry spoils you rotten. You better not play favorites. No matter what happens, I'm your number one."

"No, no, no, Macy. You and Phoenix are both my sisters. There's no ranking here," Meredith replied diplomatically.

Listening to their banter, Yolanda's mind was reeling.

Good God. The CEO of Lumina Jewelry and the CEO of Ignis Global were both hopelessly devoted to Phoenix, even staging a fake rivalry for her affection.

Ms. Prescott, are you actually a siren in disguise?

But then again, Yolanda knew how fiercely loyal she herself felt toward Phoenix. Looking at it that way, the two billionaires' reactions were entirely justified.

"Hah, what did I just hear? Someone is actually arrogant enough to claim they're going to win first place before the expo even starts?"

A mocking voice suddenly cut through the air, ruining the wholesome moment.