Chapter 470:

“Do you personally own any Watson Group stock?” Brandon asked, his tone cold.

“Huh?” Vivian stared, puzzled.

Eugene cut in, his voice serious. “Miss Simpson, this is a serious matter. What you did could be viewed as manipulating the stock price, especially if you purchased shares when they were at their lowest…” Eugene trailed off, but the threat was obvious.

“This could have major legal consequences,” he added.

Depending on the circumstances, she could be facing jail time or at least a hefty fine.

Vivian shot Eugene a sharp look but quickly replied, “No, I didn’t buy any shares.”

Brandon didn’t take her at her word. Instead, he looked straight at Eugene.

“Double-check it for me.”

“Understood,” Eugene answered at once.

“Brandon, I already told you I didn’t buy any. Don’t you trust me?” Vivian’s voice edged with panic. But Brandon met her gaze with a chilling calmness, so unlike the man she thought she knew.

The eerie composure in his eyes only made Vivian bristle with frustration. She continued, “You really don’t have to go this far. I said on the livestream that I acted on my own, and you had no idea what I was doing.”

Eugene let out a weary sigh. “Miss Simpson, do you honestly think anyone will believe that? You’ve brought up your relationship with Mr. Watson on public platforms more than once. The damage is already done, no matter what you say now.”

“You—” Vivian shot him a glare, her patience fraying. Yet, in the end, she held her tongue.

At last, she threw up her hands in exasperation. “Fine, do whatever you need—I’ll cooperate, all right?! Satisfied?”

She stormed out of the office, her anger trailing behind her.

Eugene hurried after her, leaving Brandon standing by the window, silently watching her retreat.

Just as Vivian reached the doorway, Brandon spoke, his tone flat. “From now on, Vivian, leave Watson Group matters to me. Don’t get involved ever again.”

That stung. Vivian stiffened, her back still to him.

“So, that’s it? You’re cutting me out?” she asked.

Brandon didn’t bother to answer.

Eugene cut in, hoping to smooth things over. “Miss Simpson, that’s not what Mr. Watson means. The company’s business is complicated, and he’s only looking out for you.”

Vivian stayed silent, her hand tightening on the doorknob, the tension hanging in the air.

“Brandon, I just want to help you,” she pleaded, turning around, eyes bright with tears. “If she could manage it, then why can’t I? Maybe I made mistakes this time, but I’m still willing to do whatever it takes.”

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