Chapter 518
Troy slammed the table, his tone laced with frustration. “It seems my efforts were all in vain. Some people in the company don’t appreciate my hard work and think I’m just being foolish. Fine, if that’s the case, the Pharmaceutical Division doesn’t need this collaboration with Ms. Dickinson and Amberpeak Corporation. After all, any losses will be the corporation’s, not mine.”
Ruby seized the moment, feigning regret as she spoke, “It’s such a pity. If Mr. MacAfee doesn’t want this opportunity, I’ll have to look elsewhere. Perhaps the Weller family, who’s been excelling in wellness products lately, might be interested.”
Michael panicked, immediately forcing a smile. “Ms. Dickinson, please don’t be hasty. Of course, we at Rhodes Corporation are eager for this partnership with Amberpeak Corporation. Only a fool would reject it!”
Ruby smirked, adding, “You can want it all you like, but I only trust Mr. MacAfee, so he’ll be my sole point of contact for this collaboration.”
Michael nodded hastily, waving his hand. “No problem at all. The Pharmaceutical Division is entirely under Mr. MacAfee’s jurisdiction. We never interfere.”
He then turned to Lauren, his expression darkening. “Lauren, what exactly are you trying to do? This is an incredible opportunity, and you’re about to ruin it. Don’t forget your position. You’re the vice CEO of Rhodes Corporation, and the company’s interests should be your top priority.”
Ruby chimed in with mock innocence, her tone dripping with sarcasm. “I understand Ms. Rhodes’s reservations. She clearly doesn’t think much of me. After all, someone like her, a high-and-mighty heiress, wouldn’t let someone like me stand in her way. To her, avoiding embarrassment is far more important than the company’s benefit.”
Lauren let out a cold laugh. “Ms. Dickinson, your shameless attitude hasn’t changed one bit, even after years behind bars.”
Michael exploded in anger. “Lauren, I’m warning you, show some respect to our esteemed partner! I know you’ve had personal issues with Ms. Dickinson, but that’s all history. She’s turned over a new leaf and risen to success. Can’t you let it go? Or are you just jealous?”
Lauren narrowed her eyes. “Jealous? You’re actually telling me she’s reformed? That’s rich.”
Michael snorted. “Isn’t it obvious? Otherwise, why would you keep targeting her? You clearly don’t understand the stakes. Not only Rhodes Corporation, but even the higher-ups in the family wouldn’t let an opportunity like this slip by.”
Lauren shook her head, exasperated. “You’re as short-sighted as ever. Michael, let me repeat myself: Ruby cannot be trusted. People don’t change, and she’s nothing but a notorious corporate spy. If you don’t investigate this thoroughly, you’re asking for disaster.”
Michael’s expression turned icy. “That’s enough. You don’t have the authority to make decisions on major group matters. I’m the CEO, and what I say goes. When this partnership with Amberpeak Corporation propels our Pharmaceutical Division into Blumedale, I’ll be standing on the family’s podium, watching you grovel in apology before the family!”
1/2 Chapter $15
Lauren gave him a withering look, as if he were the biggest fool she had ever seen. “Sure, Michael. You go ahead and dream about that.”
Michael scoffed, then glanced around the room. “Anyone else have a problem? No? Good. Meeting adjourned.”
He had not really expected any objections–no one ever dared to voice dissent against him. However, Andrew’s voice rang out, cutting through the air.
“I have a problem. Everyone, sit back down. We’re not clones yet."
A wave of exasperation swept through the room as the executives hesitated, their frustration visible, wondering what Andrew was up to.