Chapter 791

Damian's assistant nodded and went to work. Damian remained outside the meeting room, hesitant to enter. After composing himself, he entered, maintaining a calm demeanor.

"I have nothing further to add for today's meeting," he announced. "Any questions? Otherwise, let's adjourn."

The project was crucial, and he couldn't afford a mistake. Adjourning seemed the best course of action.

His announcement stunned the room. The discussion was at its peak.

"Damian—" Joseph began, quickly correcting himself, "Mr. Damian, why adjourn before concluding the discussion? Why not introduce the new perfume? It sold out so quickly; many of us haven't seen it, have we?"

Joseph smiled. "I brought two bottles. Shall we try them?" He produced two perfume bottles and placed them on the table.

As someone reached for one, Damian shouted, "Don't!"

The sharp reaction startled everyone. The hand quickly withdrew.

"Damian, what's going on?!" Joseph frowned. 'This boy is acting strangely. He was late, smelled of alcohol, and now this?' he thought.

"Nothing!" Damian stammered. "Everyone's tired from this morning's meeting. Let's take a break. I'll consider your suggestions. We shouldn't rush. I'll update you at the next meeting."

"Fine," one shareholder said, looking up from his phone. "Just explain it now."

All eyes turned to him. The speaker was Donovan Elm, the company's executive vice president—a veteran, Derrick's right-hand man, with over thirty years at the company. Even Joseph respected him.

Joseph was startled. Donovan's tone was sharp, brooking no contradiction. Cautiously, he asked, "Mr. Elm, what do you mean?"

"That's my question for Mr. Damian."

With a tap, Donovan projected his phone screen onto the large screen. The article, "Tanner Corporation's first-ever perfume—a revolution, or pure poison?"—a detailed interview with Naomi—was visible to all.

The article was compelling, clearly outlining the perfume's use of prohibited ingredients and Naomi's resulting allergic reaction and hospitalization.

Damian's face paled. He hadn't anticipated such rapid dissemination of the news; suppression was now impossible.

"Explain yourself," Donovan demanded, arms crossed.

Damian stared, wide-eyed, at the projected article, searching for a flaw. Beyond Naomi's account and photos of her swollen face, the article questioned the perfume's safety testing, FDA approval, and the use of prohibited ingredients, questioning the board's knowledge of these issues.