THE PRECIOUS JEWEL

ncerity, extending an olive branch and inviting Emma back to Everly Jewelry for a "fresh start."Olivia had spent hours perfecting ever

ld see the wheels turning in her mind. "I see. And what exactly is the nature of your connection to Zora?"Emma leaned back in her chair, her expression calm and collected. "I'm afraid I can't disclose the details of my relationship with Zora. That is a private matter, and one that I'm not at liberty to discuss."Daniel, who had been silent up until this point, stepped forward, his brow furrowed. "Emma, you must understand that Zora's involvement with Everly Jewelry is a matter of great importance to us. If you have any information that could jeopardize that relationship, we need to know about it."Emma turned her gaze to Daniel, her eyes steady. "I understand your concerns, Daniel, but I can assure you that my connection to Zora is not a threat to your business. In fact, I believe that I can be an asset to Everly Jewelry, if you're willing to give me a chance."Olivia leaned forward, her expression calculating. "And what exactly do you mean by that, Emma? What kind of arrangement are you proposing?"Emma took a deep breath, steeling herself for the next step in her plan. "I'm willing to work with Everly Jewelry, to use my connections and expertise to help the company thrive. But in exchange, I want a stake in the business – a rightful share of the profits and a seat on the board of directors."Olivia's eyes widened, and Daniel's expression darkened. "Absolutely not," Olivia snapped, her mask of civility slipping. "Everly Jewelry is my company, and I won't hand over control to some upstart who disappeared for years and is now making wild claims about Zora."Emma held up a hand, her expression calm and collected. "I understand your hesitation, Olivia, but I assure you that my claims are legitimate. I have a deep understanding of the fashion industry, and I believe that with my involvement, Everly Jewelry can reach new heights."Daniel stepped forward, his expression stern. "Emma, I'm afraid we simply can't trust you. You've been absent from this company for years, and now you're suddenly making demands? I'm sorry, but we can't take that kind of risk."Emma's gaze hardened, and she leaned forward in her chair. "Then I'm afraid we have nothing more to discuss. I'm willing to work with you, but I won't be denied my rightful place in this company. If you're not willing to consider my proposal, then I'll have no choice but to pursue other avenues."Olivia's eyes narrowed, and she leaned back in her chair, her expression calculating. "Other avenues, you say? And what exactly do you mean by that, Emma?"Emma met Olivia's gaze, her expression unwavering. "I mean that I'm prepared to take legal action, if necessary. I have a