Too Late to Hold Me Back novel Chapter 239

Fiona instantly realized Mara's "relationship" with the CEO was entirely fabricated.

"Thank you, we'd appreciate that."

"Since you're here for corporate business, you can go up."

"Right this way."

"See? I told you," Mara scoffed, her chin tilting back up in supreme arrogance. "Nobody rejects the Mercer family."

"Let's just get the meeting started."

Fiona murmured, pulling her along.

Inside the sleek, sunlit reception lounge, a stunning receptionist gestured for them to sit and poured them two glasses of artisan water.

"I am the heiress of the Mercer family," Mara demanded haughtily. "Go fetch your Mr. Lance immediately. We have a highly lucrative proposal for him."

In Mara's delusional worldview, a startup like this should be begging for Mercer capital.

Fiona shot Mara a sharp, warning glare, but the girl ignored it. Fiona quickly grabbed her hand to silence her.

EcoRide was currently the hottest commodity in the city. If they lacked serious leverage and unshakeable backing, every predator in Melvion City would have already devoured them.

The fact that they were still independent meant their CEO was a formidable player. Mara needed to be disciplined when they got home.

"I'm afraid you are mistaken," Leah Sommers smiled with flawless, icy politeness. "Our CEO does not handle routine negotiations. Different departments manage different proposals."

The receptionist's eyes briefly flashed with mockery. *The sheer audacity to demand a private audience with Mr. Lance.*

Fiona caught the subtle disrespect.

As a seasoned corporate veteran, she knew a receptionist's attitude often reflected the confidence of the leadership.

This company was a powerhouse, and its owner was definitely someone they needed on their side.

"May I have your name, please?"

Fiona asked with a warm, humble smile, trying to salvage the situation.

"Leah Sommers."

"Well, Ms. Sommers, could you perhaps connect us with the appropriate department head?"

Leah nodded. "What is the nature of your business?

Advertising, fleet leasing, or technical partnerships?"

"We're here to acquire your entire company."

Mara interrupted aggressively.

"Then you can see yourselves out," Leah replied instantly, dismissing the so-called heiress with absolute zero hesitation. "EcoRide is not for sale."

Leave. Now."

Mara was furious and ready to fight, but Fiona dragged her away.

As they stormed out, the glass doors slid open, and Mira strolled in, flanked by two towering, predatory bodyguards.

She moved with a relaxed, commanding swagger, as if she owned the entire building.

"Good evening, Miss... Mercer."

Leah greeted, almost instinctively calling her 'Chairman' before remembering the hostile guests. She quickly corrected herself.

Her icy demeanor melted into total, awestruck reverence—a stark contrast to the disdain she had just shown Mara.

Mira offered a faint nod and continued walking without breaking stride.

She allowed her gaze to brush over Mara and Fiona for a fraction of a second, her expression utterly devoid of emotion, before looking away.

"Why is she allowed inside?!"

Mara demanded, her voice shrill.

"That is none of your concern. Get out before I call security to physically remove you."

Fiona clamped a hand over Mara's arm and practically hauled her into the elevator.