Chapter 399: I Have Got Everything Covered

“You’ve seen the names on the list, haven’t you?”

Suddenly, a crisp, distinct female voice echoed through the room. Madelyn entered, dressed in a casual yet refined blazer, radiating the aura of a successful, sophisticated woman. Her entrance silenced everyone instantly. Cyrus followed, filled with reverence. Ms. Thornton, despite her youth, possessed a powerful aura. He mused that the younger generation would truly surpass the older one.

Madelyn, blessed with exceptional beauty, naturally drew everyone's attention, making it impossible to look away.

“You all are aware of the company’s downsizing plans, so I won’t dwell on that. Instead, let me explain the reasons.”

Madelyn addressed her employees with poise. “In truth, the company’s development has been stagnant for two years. I’ve been trying to understand why.”

She continued, “I’ve realized we’ve harbored many uncommitted colleagues and others who are unproductive. That’s why I initiated this significant downsizing, allowing us to fully utilize personnel without unnecessary expenses. I know many of you are long-term employees—those with over five years of service—and rest assured, any such employee let go will receive a severance package amounting to three times their…”

After a brief pause, she said, “Moreover, due to the layoffs, some colleagues will take on extra responsibilities temporarily, and will receive additional allowances. This downsizing will significantly impact the company, but it’s a necessary step for progress. We must use this opportunity to ascend to the next level. We hope everyone understands. That sums up my explanation. Thank you.”

The room erupted in applause. Madelyn nodded in gratitude and exited, watched by all present. Employees reacted variously—some happy, some sad, some discontented, while others felt it was the right decision. For a moment, opinions were mixed.

News quickly reached the board of directors and Derek. Madelyn expected a scolding from her father, but surprisingly, Derek praised her instead. “You’ve done what I’ve always been afraid to do. I am truly relieved.”

Derek was overjoyed, his satisfaction with his daughter growing. The day he could hand over the company to Madelyn seemed near.

After a few days’ rest, Derek returned to the company to guide Madelyn, teaching her step-by-step management. Managing a company was never easy; countless responsibilities existed from top to bottom. Many outsiders viewed it as glamorous, but only those in the position knew how truly challenging it was. Clients and suppliers were difficult to deal with; entertaining clients often involved excessive alcohol consumption.

Despite the challenges, Madelyn was determined to learn. Her father was aging, and the company’s responsibilities would inevitably fall on her. She couldn’t afford to slack off. Every day after school, she went straight to the company to learn from her father and work.

Within days, everyone was secretly impressed by her dedication. Subtly, she had won their hearts. However, she was swamped with work, exhausted by the time she got home each evening.

One day, she sank onto the couch with a deep sigh. “I’m exhausted…”

Sebastian descended the stairs. Seeing her exhaustion, his heart ached. “You’re home.”

Walking down the stairs at a leisurely pace, his voice deep and magnetic, he said, “You’re home.” Madelyn sat up, startled. “Sebastian? Why are you back so early?” He usually worked until ten.

Sebastian approached, examining Madelyn closely. In the past, she possessed a youthful plumpness. In just a few days, the baby fat had vanished, transforming her face into something even more exquisite. The sight pained Sebastian.

Madelyn shook her head nonchalantly. “It’s okay. I can handle it. My father is aging, and I’m the only one he can rely on. If I don’t hold the company up, no one else can.” If no one was in charge, the board would likely seize control. Madelyn couldn't let her father's lifelong work fall into the hands of outsiders.

There was something else Madelyn hadn't said. The Lockhart family had long disapproved of her, seeing her as a good-for-nothing heiress. Madelyn wanted to be acknowledged, to prove herself worthy of Sebastian.

“Madelyn is really stubborn…” Sebastian felt distress. He found it difficult to voice any objections; it was pointless. She never backed down until she failed. He sighed, tousled her hair, and advised, “If you ever feel overwhelmed, tell me. I’m here for you, always.”

Hearing this, Madelyn grinned, stood, and embraced him tightly.