Chapter 108

Dominic answered the call, simultaneously waving dismissively at the executives who constantly boasted about their experience while forming cliques. These executives hurried from the office as if someone had thrown them a lifeline; they might need a ventilator if they’d stayed another second. They suddenly realized that Dominic, who had seemingly been living a quiet life, might have been biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

Dominic wasn't just a pretty face lacking talent; he hadn't merely leveraged his family's background and resources to achieve success in Ameridia. The executives thought controlling Dominic would require minimal effort. In the end, their assumptions backfired spectacularly.

Feeling dazed, Gerard stood in a corner of the office, feeling as if he were in a dream.

“Ms. Gildon, what’s going on?” Dominic held the phone to his ear, sounding as nonchalant as ever.

Vespera explained, “So, I’m scheduled to start work the day after tomorrow. Although my leg has recovered, I have something to handle and need to go to my grandma’s house… I would like to take another week off.”

Vespera sounded as calm as usual on the phone. If Dominic hadn’t been paying attention, he wouldn’t have realized anything was amiss. But he knew she was merely holding on.

Dominic was silent for a few seconds. “You’ve really gotten used to skipping work. You’re not planning to use your injury as an excuse to avoid work, right?”

“I want to see you at the office the day after tomorrow.”

“I’ll take five days off…”

“You’re not allowed to take even half a day off. I expect to see you the day after tomorrow morning.”

Vespera was silent for a moment. She seemed to deflate like a balloon, and her voice sounded disheartened. “I’m sorry. I never expected getting a divorce would be so complicated. If I knew that, I wouldn’t have gone job hunting so soon and caused so much trouble for you.”

“Please give me another five days. I’ll definitely handle my issues properly. Otherwise…”

Dominic asked, “Otherwise?”

“Even you’ll be criticized.”

Almost three hours had passed since things started escalating. The chances of Dominic being unaware were very slim. Vespera wasn’t certain she could turn public opinion around within two days. If she were to show up at Tavian Group, she would always be seen with Dominic. The rumors surrounding him… “Oh, so that’s what you’re worried about.”

Dominic suddenly understood and dropped the subject. Instead, he asked curiously, “So, how will you handle it? Do you have a plan?” Vespera paused before simply saying, “I’ll fight to get a negotiation.”

Dominic sighed, sounding conflicted. “Ms. Gildon, you’re scaring me.”

Vespera explained, “I’m not usually like this, but they’ve gone too far. I’ve no choice but to fight back.”

“I’m saying that your blind confidence is scaring me,”

Vespera was…

“You’re a smart cookie. I’m sure you know the Sowles pushed Felicia into hosting the press conference. What makes you think you can challenge two prominent families in Halewick?”

“I have a plan,” Vespera retorted stubbornly.

“Vespera, it’s good to be brave, but courage can’t replace strength. You’ll be walking into the lion’s den alone.”

She realized that…

“I must take the mastermind down even if I have to sacrifice myself. We could all go down together!” As soon as Vespera blurted out those words, she realized she had been speaking rashly without thinking.

Dominic’s expression grew solemn. Even through the phone, Vespera could sense his displeasure. Knowing he was angry, she tried to make amends, saying, “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said such a foolish thing.”

Dominic’s scowl eased slightly. “Since you work for me and represent me, I’ll take care of you. Come to work on time, and I’ll think of something for you. What do you think?”

His voice sounded convincing.