Chapter 375: Intent on Causing Trouble for Her

“Don’t forget, you committed the murder first! I’m not holding you legally responsible and am willing to settle with money, which is already a favor. Don’t be ungrateful!” The old man spat each word harshly. He refused to let go of his son’s death, clearly intending to extort as much as possible.

Derek understood his intentions. While fifty million wasn't a significant sum for him, money doesn't grow on trees; it wasn't to be given away lightly. He remained firm: “I’ve already said I won’t give you fifty million. Either propose another price or do what you want. Your son’s death is partly our responsibility, but we will only compensate accordingly, not be your cash cow.”

Derek then instructed his assistant, “Cyrus, escort these people out. Tell them to return when they’ve reconsidered.”

“Yes,” Cyrus replied curtly, and approached the elderly people. “Everyone, this way, please.”

The elder immediately bristled. “No way! We haven’t settled this! Fifty million, not a penny less. If you don’t pay, we’ll sue.”

Derek, feeling helpless, decided to be resolute. “Fine, sue us. Cyrus, get them out of here.”

“Yes,” Cyrus nodded, summoning security guards. Each guard held an iron rod, appearing menacing. Anyone defying them would likely face a brutal beating.

Initially stubborn, the elderly couple, upon seeing the guards, reconsidered. They left viciously threatening, “Just wait! If you don’t give us fifty million, we’ll definitely sue!” They departed with their daughter-in-law and grandchild.

The large reception room fell silent. Madelyn sighed in relief, turning to her father. “Dad, do you think they’ll really sue?”

“Who knows?” Derek said angrily. “If they want to sue, let them. Fifty million? It's blatant extortion!”

Madelyn tried to soothe him. “Dad, calm down. We’ll find a solution.”

Derek sighed deeply, resigned.

Meanwhile, at Ingram Manor, Janessa sat on the living room sofa, watching live media coverage of the Thornton Corporation building and laughing heartily.

“This is killing three birds with one stone, effortlessly,” Rachel laughed smugly.

“But why cause trouble for Madelyn?” Rachel questioned, still unclear about Janessa's motives.

Janessa laughed coldly. “Aunt Rachel, some people are born enemies. You won’t be at peace until you crush them.” Madelyn, in other words, was her arch-enemy, and she would fight to the bitter end.

Rachel nodded. “I understand. Your hatred for this woman mirrors your mother’s hatred for Scarlet. I’ll help you.”

“Really? Aunt Rachel, you’re the best!” Janessa’s face lit up with joy, and Rachel smiled kindly.

Meanwhile, the victim’s family prepared legal documents. They hired a lawyer and explained the situation. The lawyer confidently assured them, “Don’t worry, I’ll send a lawyer’s letter to Thornton Corporation and a copy to the media.”

“Good, good. We’ll leave it to you,” the elderly couple replied, nodding in satisfaction.

The lawyer prepared the letters, sending one to Thornton Corporation and another to the media. Within two hours, the media publicized the letter, causing another online uproar.

The letter stated: Thornton Corporation is responsible for a death but unwilling to provide compensation. How can the deceased rest in peace?

These words ignited public outrage, and widespread criticism of Thornton Corporation ensued. The media was filled with harsh words, and many major public accounts spread negative news about the company. Countless unpleasant words were thrown around.

The situation at Thornton Corporation caused widespread panic. The scandal severely impacted the company’s stock price, which plummeted. Shareholders, furious, rapidly sold their shares; Thornton Corporation’s stock was seen as a death sentence, with no one daring to buy it.

Derek watched, his spirit deteriorating. He sighed, feeling utterly powerless. Finally, he couldn’t bear it any longer and discussed it with Madelyn. “Madelyn, shouldn’t we just pay the fifty million and settle this quickly?”

Madelyn firmly shook her head. “No. Fifty million is outrageous! Why should our company be a sucker?”

“But if we don’t pay, this might never end. I can’t bear to see our company condemned like this…” Derek was distressed. He had built the company from scratch and maintained a high reputation. Now, the scandal had plunged it into endless condemnation.

Derek considered a compromise, but the more severe the situation became, the more Madelyn refused to yield. Her gaze was resolute. “Dad, no matter what, we absolutely cannot give them this money. I investigated the factory; the employee’s death was suspicious, definitely not an accident. Our company isn’t responsible. If they insist on causing trouble, I have a way to deal with them.”