Chapter 42 In the Rhodes Corporation conference room, Lauren called an emergency executive meeting. After all the executives had entered, Andrew locked the door, drawing immediate disapproval from those present. “Ms. Rhodes, what’s the meaning of this?” C “First, an unannounced emergency meeting, and now we’re locked in? What are you planning? “Hey, you! Unlock that door now, that’s an order!” Andrew returned to Lauren’s side, ignoring their protests. When one furious executive tried to speak up, a warning look from Michael silenced him immediately. At the head of the table, Lauren looked over the gathered executives, her tone cold and direct. She began, “I’ve called this meeting because of an urgent matter. Someone has been trying to poison me for some time, and I’ve just discovered who it is.” The executives‘ faces changed dramatically with this revelation. “Who could stoop so low? Ms. Rhodes is our CEO–who would do something so despicable?” “Whoever it is should get on their knees and beg for mercy!! “If I, Paul Clarke, find out who did this, they’ll regret it!” One by one, the senior executives expressed their outrage. Michael slammed his hand on the table, and he declared icily, “Anyone who threatens a member of the Rhodes family will live to regret it. If the culprit comes forward now, I’ll spare them.” Andrew had to suppress a smile at Michael’s performance–the guilty party playing detective. After much shouting and declarations of loyalty that left them hoarse, no one stepped forward. Each executive acted as if they were innocent. “Lauren, if you know who it is, just point them out,” Michael suggested. “I gave them a chance, but they didn’t take it. We shouldn’t be so merciful to that person!” Lauren smirked. “You already know who it is, don’t you?” “How would I know?” Michael feigned surprise. “If I did, they’d be in pieces by now.” Lauren inwardly scoffed at his act but maintained her composure. “I’ll give the guilty party one last chance to confess. Given your years of service to Rhodes Corporation, I might show leniency!” The executives exchanged uneasy glances, but no one spoke up.
25 BONUS
Chapter 42 Paul Clarke’s face darkened. “Which gutless coward did this? Ms. Rhodes has taken care of all of us executives. If I catch who betrayed her, they’re going straight to prison!” Michael suddenly smiled. “Lauren, are you sure you actually know who did it?” Lauren gave him a cold look. “Michael, are you suggesting I’m bluffing?” “Of c “Of course not,” Michael replied with faked sincerity. “If you know who it is, just name them. Leave everything else to me. I’ll handle it.” His words were full of feigned concern, perfectly playing the role of the protective family member.