After this incident, not only would the company's employees be disappointed with her, even consumers would remember her for her deceitful and selfish actions.

Pretending to be concerned, Howard said to her anxiously, “Now is not the time to be stubborn and capricious. If you ask Lance for help, he'll have our back. His supply is enough to support all our deliveries, so we can give customers everything they need. Do you really want to prevent our company from shipping goods and let everyone down because you're trying to satisfy your own selfish desires and boost your ego?"

As Howard spoke, more and more people were glad that someone Like him was present. Their opinion of Lilah, on the other hand, was totally unpleasant.

"To be honest, Phillips Jewelry's designs are quite good this time.

I like several pieces here. I was beginning to fear that I would not get any of them since there was no stock at all. Fortunately, their Deputy CEO has a solution," one woman said, looking kindly at Howard.

"Is Lilah deliberately unwilling to accept help from others? Is all of this happening because of her big ego? I mean, her designs are quite good, but she's foolish when it comes to the business aspect!" another woman said.

Lilah was being tackled from all corners! Howard was so happy that he was practically on the verge of bursting into laughter.

Lilah gazed at Howard with a cool detachment. “Where did you get the idea that our supply chain is broken?"

"It's common knowledge that suppliers have been reluctant since you stepped in. Only Lance has the clout to get us back on track. Can't you put old grudges aside for the good of the company?" Howard looked at her, his eyes reflecting a plea for reason.

Around them, nods of agreement were seen as someone mentioned, "The Deputy CEO from the Phillips Group gets it."

Howard's face lit up with a self-righteous glow.

Lilah gave a scornful laugh. “You think working with Lance would make us anything but a puppet to their whims? Don't kid yourself. He's not going to help us without a hefty price. I'm willing to bet he'll want no less than thirty percent of our profits. Imagine, our designers' earnings cut in half. After all their hard work, if they're paid peanuts, is the Phillips Group really the ‘good company'.

Her words left Howard dumbfounded. He had not anticipated her sharp insight.

True enough, Lance was eyeing a thirty percent profit slice for any partnership.

“But, the customers matter most. And this mess? It started with your error. Lance wasn't eyeing a share until you dragged your feet, forcing his hand. He's offering you a lifeline. Without his help, we'd let down our customers."

Howard's eyes were earnest, trying to convey his sincerity.

“I'm sorry, but I can't accept anything from him," Lilah stated, her voice devoid of warmth. "I've secured a steady supplier. In two days, our latest designs will reach you. Some orders might even arrive tomorrow. We're committed to getting your favorite pieces to you swiftly."

Howard initially bristled at her words, thinking she was hopelessly naive and was still holding a grudge against Lance in this critical moment. However, her next words floored him.

She had a supplier?

He struggled with disbelief, yet she spoke with unwavering certainty.

Surely, she wouldn't make such a bold claim without something to back it up?

Alice, who had just arrived at the exhibition venue, was equally skeptical. She had assumed the design exhibition was off and hadn't bothered to attend. Yet here it was, going ahead as planned.

She had pictured Lilah backed into a corner, succumbing to their will.

But now, Lilah was announcing a steady supplier triumphantly.