Chapter 467

Judie suppressed her shock and fury, fighting to project an air of calm. She drew a deep breath and remarked, "You just said public opinion is on Aurora Court Studio's side. So why are you in such a rush,offering a hundred million to bribe me into being the scapegoat of the plagiarism?"

Erica's smile was assured, laced with arrogance, as if she held all the cards. "Naturally, it's to eliminate any risks. Ms. Green, you must realize-Aurora Court Studio is backed by the Jones Group. A hundred million is trivial to me. Take it, and you'll live comfortably forever. It's worth thinking about."

Erica paused, gauging Judie's reaction, and then continued, "And if you're concerned about your career-worried that taking the blame might make future jobs impossible-l assure you, Jones Group will hire you. As the future Mrs. Jones, I give you my word."

"Future Mrs. Jones?" Judie's eyes widened in disbelief, her voice pitching up in astonishment. "You and MMr.Jones..."

Erica's smile widened, her confidence unwavering. "Yes. Mr. Jones and I are deeply in love, and our relationship is solid. Marriage is on the horizon."

Erica raised her chin, as if already embodying the role of Jones family matriarch.

Judie's eyes flicked involuntarily toward the screen in the room's corner.

Just then, a slight sound came from behind the screen.

Moments later, Vincent's imposing figure stepped out. His expression was neutral, but his cold gaze swept over Erica. "You and I are in love? Odd-I don't even know I harbor any romantic feelings toward you."

Erica's smile shattered. Why was Vincent here? Had he overheard everything? Her face drained of color,her body quaking.

As Erica's mind raced for an escape, Hannah appeared from behind the screen, her steps measured,coming to stand silently beside Vincent. Her eyes locked onto Erica's face-uncannily identical to her own. "Hannah... Hannah Scott?" Erica gasped in alarm. Hannah and Vincent? When had they gotten on well? Why were they here together? So they had heard every word just now?

Suddenly, it clicked for Erica-no wonder Judie's gaze had kept darting around. This was an elaborate trap.

Panic clawed at Erica, but she forced a facade of composure, clinging to her remaining poise. Still, her trembling persisted, her teeth clattering faintly.

Judie sprang to her feet at Hannah's arrival, offering a respectful nod."Ms.Scott!"

Erica's breath caught. Judie had displayed such reverence for Hannah as one would for the company's CEO.What was happening? Wasn't Hannah merely a low-level employee at Luminara Group? Why the profound respect from Judie?

In seconds, Erica's world had upended, her mind reeling.

Hannah acknowledged Judie with a subtle nod, her focus fixed on Erica. She approached slowly, the air thickening with tension. "So you recognize me. Who are you, really? Why impersonate me?"

Erica's skin prickled under Hannah's intense scrutiny. In her panic, one instinct dominated-flee! She spun toward the door, poised to run.

But Vincent's broad form blocked her way, his cold stare emanating an oppressive chill.

Hannah's lips twisted into a mocking smile as she watched Erica. "What's the matter? Cat got your tongue?Just want to flee?"

Erica knew she was utterly exposed. Suddenly, desperation sparked an idea. She snapped her head up to Vincent, her voice cracking with tears and accusation.′′Vncent, have you forgotten? I risked everything to save you when you fell into the water at seven. Without my brother and father, would you even be alive? Are you really that ungrateful?"

Vincent's brow furrowed. How did she know about his childhood accident-the fall into the water at seven,a closely guarded secret? Only a handful knew the details.