Chapter 429
Edward, the company veteran, the CEO’s right-hand man, the head of corporate security, and a board member – had just been knocked out cold with a single slap.
The shocking display of power left everyone in the boardroom stunned and speechless.
“Mr. Lloyd, you…” Marcus’ scalp tingled as words failed him completely.
Eunice stared in disbelief. She mumbled, “This is terrible. We finally had things under control, and now he’s ruined everything. Mr. Lloyd, do you realize how serious it is to assault a board member and disrespect a company veteran?”
Even Lauren had not expected Andrew to make such a bold move. Slapping Edward across the room was something she had not dared to consider, even when she was CEO with absolute authority at Rhodes Corporation.
Michael jumped to his feet, his face dark with anger. “What the hell are you doing? How dare you assault our company veteran! Are you trying to land yourself in prison?”
“Is there a problem with me slapping this old fool?” Andrew asked calmly. “He repeatedly targeted me as a director and showed zero respect, constantly insulting me. Mr. Rhodes, with my current shareholding, don’t you think I’m entitled to collect some interest on that disrespect?”
Michael gritted his teeth. “Andrew–”
“As Rhodes Corporation’s fifth major shareholder,” Andrew cut him off, “my shareholding and my dignity absolutely cannot tolerate any insults. Insulting me is equivalent to insulting the company, so I believe that slap was completely justified.”
One executive burst out angrily, “Even so, you can’t just hit people!”
Others chimed in, “Violence is bad enough, but you hit him so hard that he passed out. Even if you’ve got money and are now a director, we’ll never accept such lawless and arrogant behavior.”
Immediately, several other company veterans spoke up in support of Edward. As veterans themselves, they were used to commanding respect – even the CEO had to show them consideration.
Yet, this upstart, who had been a director for mere minutes, had openly attacked Edward in broad daylight. To them, this was a clear sign that he held no respect for their senior status.
Lauren said firmly. “I believe Mr. Lloyd’s actions were completely justified. Everyone witnessed, and the surveillance cameras recorded, that Mr. Hills disrespected Mr. Lloyd first. Mr. Lloyd controls such a large portion of our company’s shares that his reputation is the company’s reputation. Mr. Hills overstepped his bounds – he brought this on himself.”
Andrew laughed coldly. “Mr. Rhodes, you can call the police right now if you want to arrest me for assault. But consider this – I’m a company director, and if I get arrested, it’s the company’s reputation that suffers. Plus, I can file lawsuits about Mr. Hills’ previous actions. And those managers and executives who just spoke up? I’ve taken note of every word. None of them will escape consequences.”
Immediately, Michael’s supporters panicked, their faces turning pale as they looked to him for help. With Andrew’s current share percentage, dealing with a few employees would not take much effort at all.
Michael’s expressions fluctuated between rage and forced composure. Finally, he shot Andrew a hateful glance and said icily, “Mr. Lloyd, I hope this kind of barbaric behavior won’t be repeated in our company.”