Lawrence was on the verge of admitting defeat. In the span of a short phone call, he had already repeated himself three times.
"I'm really not going just because of you. It's a relief mission, okay?"
"My dad was involved in the Sichuan relief efforts years ago. The Lane Group is answering the government's call to support the disaster zone. It's a core initiative of our corporate charity division..."
Lawrence listened patiently, a helpless smile on his face. "It's not about taking a loss. Public image is crucial, and Magnolia Group was planning to send a team to Highvale anyway. One, it's for experience; two, it's giving back to the community; and three... fine, we just have a lot of money."
Chuckling at her childish rambling, Lawrence crouched down to stroke June's head.
On the other end of the line, Bonnie's voice softened significantly. "Alright then, let me ask one last time: are you absolutely sure you're going to Highvale? I'm just worried you're compromising your work because of me and our three-month agreement."
"Lawrence," she called out again.
"Yeah."
"We can postpone the three months," she mumbled. "We can restart it after I get back from Highvale."
His smile reached his eyes, brightening his entire face. "Sure, I agree. But I'm still going to Highvale. I just won't be stationed there the entire time. Candie, you still need to think this through. This isn't some impulsive adventure."
Bonnie had already made her choice. "I'm going. Before I called you, I signed up in the group chat. Lawrence, I want to use my professional skills to do something meaningful, no matter how small. Plus, Dale is going, and I can look after him."
Lawrence had figured as much. "Alright, I'll handle the preparations and get you the gear you'll need. I might head over a bit later than you; there are still some internal corporate procedures to finalize."
"Okay," she agreed, before adding, "But what about June? My mom is teaching the graduating class, so she doesn't have time, and my dad is out of the question—he keeps feeding her human food, and it has way too much sodium."
"Leave her at my place. My parents love having her around, and there's a big yard for her to run in," Lawrence offered.
Lawrence wasn't one to act recklessly, but his mind was made up. "Get in touch with Magnolia Group. Coordinate with Kingswood University and the local government. Finalize the details as soon as possible. You're coming to Highvale with me. Thanks for the hard work."
Realizing the decision was final, Abbot didn't push back.
Ending the call, Lawrence headed back to the living room and briefed Carl and Odette on the plan.
Carl pondered it for a moment before nodding. "Alright, go on ahead. I can handle things at the company. The Oasinia market expansion is going well, and the board has complete faith in you. I know you have the capability to balance both."
Odette, naturally, had no objections either. "Take good care of yourself and Candie. Don't overwork yourself. Your eyes need rest."
Lawrence nodded in understanding. Remembering the conversation he had walked in on earlier, he asked, "What was Jackson talking about? Did something happen?"

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