The Enigmatic Return (Neera and Jean) novel Chapter 1273

These days, she could hardly eat or sleep, consumed with thoughts of what kind of woman Neera really was.

During the last guild conference for the district president election, she had wanted to attend, but Avery didn't allow her to go.

Later on, she heard that the woman had become a district president. She was even promoted to the position of ninth elder by Avery despite all opposition.

Listening to all the gossip about that woman in Phison, she was about to be driven mad with anger.

How could someone without any roots or background, an outsider, become a prominent figure in Phison?

She had stolen all the limelight and her cousin away from her.

It's all because of that despicable Neera. She's the reason I've lost even the slightest hope. I won't just let her go like this...

Not long after Avery returned to his study, there was a knock at the door.

He thought it was Irwin. Without even lifting his head, he said, "Come in."

The door swung open. As footsteps gradually drew nearer, a blend of coffee aroma and a potent perfume scent permeated the air.

Avery sensed something was amiss. Looking up, he saw Phoebe standing in front of the desk, holding a cup of coffee.

With a gentle smile gracing her lips, she placed the coffee cup next to his hand. Leaning forward, she paused deliberately in her movement, the shocking bruise on her neck catching his eye.

Avery then looked away, his gaze devoid of any emotions.

"Is there something you need? Otherwise, get out."

Phoebe's smile wavered momentarily but swiftly regained its composure.

"Avery, you've been busy these past few days. You should take a break, or else your body won't be able to handle it."

Avery was getting somewhat impatient. "Get out."

His indifference, even rejection, left Phoebe feeling extremely unsettled. Yet, she didn't want to give up just like that.

"Avery..." Her smile faded from the corners of her mouth, replaced by a look of grievance. She gently bit her lip, a sight that aroused pity.

"Are you still mad at me? I was just upset earlier, thinking about how hard you've been working for Neera without getting anything in return. I lost my temper and said too much. Please forgive me, considering that I did it all out of concern for you."

Avery lifted his head, his tone indifferent as he said, "Are you sure it's for me? There's no need to play those petty tricks in front of me, Phoebe."

This single sentence instantly made Phoebe's heart tighten.

Does he... already know? Did I shoot myself in the foot?

For a moment, her mind was in a bit of turmoil.

"I... Avery, you've misunderstood me. I truly believe that Neera is being very unfair to—"

"I've said it before, no one is allowed to talk about Neera. If you utter one more word, you'll be thrown out of the Cox family immediately," Avery cut her off. He was thoroughly fed up.

Phoebe's face stiffened. She gritted her teeth, barely managing to suppress the jealousy welling up inside her.

Looks like it's impossible to tarnish that woman's reputation in front of Avery. But that's okay. I have plenty of ideas.

She swiftly made up her mind and changed the topic.

"Avery, please don't be angry. I'm not trying to criticize Ms. Garcia. I admit, I did have prejudices against her before. At that time, I didn't understand her and thought she was just using the Cox family. But today, she came to see you. It must be about reclaiming the Jagger family's affairs, right?"

Avery furrowed his brows, his expression still unfriendly, but he refrained from uttering harsh words. With a stern face, he asked, "What else do you want to say?"

Phoebe smiled. "It seems I was right. Ms. Garcia is indeed here for this matter, isn't she? She wants to help the Cox family, doesn't she?"

As she spoke, she let out a sigh, her face showing a hint of self-reproach.

"It seems I was really too impulsive and went over the line just now. She came all the way to help, and I said such harsh words. Avery, next time you see Ms. Garcia, please help me apologize to her properly. It's my fault. I hope she won't be upset with the entire Cox family because of me."

Avery stared at her for a couple of seconds before he finally said, "She won't. Neera is not that petty."

Phoebe was delighted. "That's great. When I get a chance, I'll invite her for a meal as an apology."

Avery asked, "Is there anything else?"

"Um..." Phoebe hesitated for a moment. "Yes, I was thinking, if the Gordon family is willing to lend a hand to help our family, please don't refuse them. This mission is too dangerous. I'd be relieved if there were more experts to accompany you..."

"You don't need to worry about this. Now, get out."

"Avery..."

Avery said impatiently, "I've already agreed. Get out."

"Okay."

Having achieved her goal, Phoebe no longer disturbed him.

Upon reaching the corridor, she closed the door to the study. Her expression changed in an instant, a triumphant gleam flashing in her eyes.

It would be best if that woman sends out all the experts by her side. When the time comes, it'll be easier for me to make a move.

"What are you doing here?" Suddenly, a soft and cute voice rang out, but its tone was anything but soft, carrying a harsh undertone.