Chapter 406
“You have nothing to do with my decision,” Milford retorted sharply, his gaze unwavering. “I just don’t want to be far from Eileen. I’m used to being around them, and going abroad alone would be dull.”
For Milford, his decision was about staying close to Eileen, not about his future or his relationship with his biological sister, which clearly stung Zola.
Zola took a moment to compose herself, considering the real reason for her visit. “Okay, but given your accelerated academic track, you could finish your university studies in two years, or maybe even one, right?”
Indeed, when Milford had been accepted into university after skipping grades, the president of Willowbrook University had suggested that he could speed up his studies even further.
“What are you getting at? Just say what you mean,” Milford challenged, meeting Zola’s gaze directly, tired of the roundabout questions.
“Let me be direct. Once you graduate, I want you to join Apex Group,” Zola proposed without hesitation. With Bryan actively recruiting her top talents, Apex Group was in desperate need of capable individuals, especially those with Milford’s intellect.
Milford was quick to decline. “I can’t. I’ve promised Eileen that I’d work with her after graduation to repay the debts I accumulated from my studies.”
Not easily deterred, Zola pressed on. “I’m offering you a substantial salary. With your qualifications, an annual package of one million isn’t out of the question. You’d be able to pay back Eileen in no time.”
Zola continued, her tone matter-of-fact. “Is she insisting that you work only for her? If so, I’ll have a word with her. She agreed to finance your education knowing you’d repay her, but she didn’t stipulate such constraints!”
Her voice rose in volume, inadvertently startling Gabriela, who began to squirm and crawl toward Milford on the mat.
Quickly scooping her up, Milford soothed, “It’s okay, Gabriela. I’m here.”
As he comforted the child, his demeanor softened significantly compared to his interaction with Zola. Noticing Gabriela’s distress, Milford excused himself from the conversation, his tone becoming protective.
Zola persisted, oblivious to Gabriela’s discomfort. “This doesn’t concern you. I’ll discuss it with Eileen directly. Do you even have a written agreement about your arrangement? Let me see it.”
As Zola’s voice grew louder, Gabriela nestled closer to Milford, on the verge of tears.
“Can you lower your voice?” Milford demanded, his tone sharp. “You’re upsetting her. What I do regarding Eileen is none of your concern. This discussion about my career can wait. If it’s urgent, let’s arrange another time to talk outside. For now, I need you to leave.”
Milford turned his attention back to Gabriela, whispering softly, “Let’s find your teething biscuit, okay? Don’t cry, your mom and dad will be home soon.”