Chapter 693

Damian's unease returned when he considered Nathaniel's relationship with Arianna. "That's not how things work," he said. "Even if they don't support Uncle Derrick's son, they'll support my sister! Arianna has worked here for many years; she knows the company and its connections better than anyone. Aren't you one of her supporters?"

Nathaniel cut him off. "Stop! I'm just Ms. Tanner's subordinate. That doesn't mean I support her or am on her team."

Damian looked at him, confused and disbelieving. "Back then, my sister assigned you this project. She helped your career, and I heard she recommended you to the company. You're telling me you're not on her team? Are you sure?"

Nathaniel laughed, then glanced nervously at the door, leaning closer and whispering, "I'm not being humble, but even if I were interested, do you think Ms. Tanner would feel the same way? Do you think she'd marry me?"

Damian widened his eyes and playfully punched Nathaniel's chest. "What the h*ll are you talking about?"

Nathaniel rubbed his chest. "Ms. Tanner has her motives for recruiting me. She wants her own team, so if management changes, she'll still have influence."

"What do you mean?" Damian asked.

"She knows she can't win you over. The company will be under your control. She's building a strong position because she's afraid you'll threaten her once you become president."

Lost in thought, Damian nearly burned his finger on his cigarette. He shook his hand, stubbed it out, and asked nervously, "Really? Is that what she thinks?"

"You can see it yourself. Your father brought you back into the family and the company. He's helping your career—everyone knows why. No one's clueless!"

Nathaniel continued, with disdain, "Furthermore, Ms. Tanner is a woman, however capable. How could your father hand over the company to a woman? She'll lose it when she marries!"

This last point resonated with Damian. He nodded fervently. "You're right! We're alike! I misunderstood you."

"It's an honor to be misunderstood by the future president," Nathaniel said respectfully.

Damian was elated. "Hahaha! You're good with words! Don't worry, I won't forget you. You'll get what you deserve!"

"Congratulations in advance, Mr. Tanner. I hope you'll help my career!" Nathaniel's gratitude seemed genuine. He stood to leave, then paused. "Oh, right. We need to be careful with this project. You'll oversee the factory; I'll be too busy."

"No problem!" Nathaniel readily agreed. "When will the perfumer finish? Should I contact them?"

"No," Damian said firmly. "I'll do that. You just monitor the factory. Do what I tell you, and nothing else."