The atmosphere in the conference room had grown tense since the expressions of doubt.

Standing on the stage, the finance executive said hesitantly, “Mr. Moss was correct. I only analyzed my department's income and expenses, neglecting a horizontal comparison of our market share against competitors. I will rectify this after the presentation.”

“I don’t want to see this inadequate financial statement again,” Simon Moss stated gravely.

The executive, embarrassed, remained silent. As senior management, he dared not oppose Simon.

Miguel Cooper intervened, “You may conclude your presentation.” He didn't disagree with Simon's assessment.

The presentation focused solely on internal group data—a myopic approach. The market, the ultimate measure of a company's viability, had been ignored.

Simon's face darkened. “We should disregard the next financial report. With all senior executives present, we must discuss the loss of the South Bay New Town project. This exemplifies our market competition failures. No matter our year-over-year or sequential turnover increases, we are losing market share!”

Hannah sensed the gravity of the situation; this failure wouldn't be easily dismissed.

“Mr. Cooper, this project's failure demands a thorough review. We must learn from this, or we will repeat the same mistakes,” Simon insisted.

Before Miguel could speak, a senior executive agreed, “Mr. Moss is correct. The South Bay New Town project was Kensbury City's largest in five years. We must reflect on our failings.”

“This is only part of the issue,” another executive added. “Those responsible must be held accountable. Otherwise, project failures will become commonplace, eroding motivation and accountability.”

The room erupted in discussion. Hannah remained silent, neither defending herself nor admitting fault.

Miguel spoke with measured seriousness, “The South Bay New Town project's failure shouldn’t be attributed to any individual. It represents a company-wide lapse in responsibility. Hannah presented this project to senior management, and it was unanimously approved. We all share responsibility; it is not solely anyone's fault.”

“Mr. Cooper, your statement is righteous but biased,” Simon countered. “Hannah’s negotiation of this project was her responsibility, and she should be held accountable. Shouldn’t her competence be questioned? While we approved her plan, we only assessed its reasonableness. Determining market competitiveness is the responsibility of the assigned individual. Why else do we have these positions and employees, if not to utilize their expertise? We might as well do everything ourselves!”

“How do you propose to punish me?” Hannah asked calmly, raising an eyebrow.

Miguel swallowed his words. He feared her silence, a potential blow to her morale, but trusted her ability to defend herself. He let her proceed.

Simon continued, “I’m stating facts, representing the company’s position. The Cooper family is the major shareholder; you benefit most from the company's success. This isn’t a personal attack; it’s my duty.”

“I understand,” Hannah replied, “but I don’t accept punishment. I believe I did my best.”

“You did your best, and you failed,” another executive interrupted. “You underestimated your competitors. That’s a fundamental business mistake. You can’t simply dismiss it.”

“The issue is your attitude,” Simon declared angrily.

The room's attention turned to him. Wayne barely concealed his smug smile, eager to witness Hannah’s downfall.

Simon continued, “You failed to report the project’s failure and the reasons for it. Did you run away? You lack responsibility. Fortunately, your position is temporary. I would be gravely concerned about the company's future if you became vice president.”

Hannah, having anticipated this, remained composed. Another shareholder declared, “I acknowledge Hannah's abilities but question her sense of responsibility. She's young and inexperienced; she needs time to mature. I suggest removing her as interim head and from the vice president candidate list.”

“I agree,” Simon stated immediately.

Hannah, unwilling to prolong the argument, asked, “Who do you propose to replace me? Wayne, perhaps, like his father?”

Wayne’s excitement was tempered by Charles’s advice to avoid hasty actions. He planned to let Hannah fall further, avoiding immediate replacement to avoid alienating management. He would bide his time, securing the vice presidency through merit and Charles’s support.