Chapter 885
Joseph’s agitation flared as he discovered Nathaniel’s actions regarding Damian. "You… what did you do to Damian?"
Nathaniel chuckled, a dismissive "Tsk! Tsk!" escaping his lips. "So your son is suddenly more important. Haven't I told you? They'll be fine if you cooperate."
Nathaniel owed Arianna a debt of gratitude for cultivating such a loyal group of henchmen. Her error lay in assuming their loyalty; she underestimated the prevalence of self-interest. Their allegiance shifted easily, depending on who offered the most advantageous terms.
The Tanner Corporation underwent a swift leadership change. The intensity of the internal family struggle surprised many. While higher-ups wavered, unsure which side to support, Nathaniel decisively seized control.
He secured the support of numerous small shareholders and presented a declaration of share transfer, bearing both Derrick Tanner's personal and company seals, authenticated as legitimate. Predictably, some challenged his appointment, but he intended to systematically remove them.
His months spent within Tanner Corporation had not been wasted. He knew the weaknesses of each employee and the affiliations of every team.
Arianna's naive assumption that he had been merely coasting, seeking an easy life under her employ, was laughable. Nathaniel, hardened by years of mistreatment, would never be content working for others, settling for a predictable existence. He craved not only Tanner Corporation, but also the opportunity to rival La Beauté Group.
Lily learned of the Tanner Corporation leadership change but paid it little mind. The overwhelming success of her Four Seasons perfumes led Lisa’s team to offer her a brand ambassadorship for their next themed collection. Simultaneously, Grandeur, persistent in its pursuit, sent its Asia-Pacific head to discuss a collaboration. This time, Lily agreed to a meeting.
While she aspired to build her own brand, she saw no need to reject all collaboration offers. Offending others was unwise; they could easily become adversaries. Securing an ally was always preferable to creating an enemy.
"Do you have to go on this business trip?" Alexander asked, watching Lily pack. He wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her close.
"Stop it," she purred. "I have a plane to catch. I'll miss it if you don't let go."
"Better if you miss it," he said petulantly. "I'd rather you stay." Grinding against her back, he inhaled her subtle, natural scent. Even though Lily was a perfumer, she rarely wore perfume outside of work, yet her innate fragrance captivated him.
"You said you'd support my career," Lily countered, turning to place her hands on his chest. His childish pleas for her attention were almost irresistible.
Alexander, regretting his generosity in securing her the studio, complained, "I am! I always have, and now you're going to leave me." Lily's dedication to the studio since acquiring it had left Alexander feeling increasingly neglected, fearing she might one day value her perfumes more than him.
"I'm not! I'm just going on a business trip, and I'll be back before—"