Chapter 727
Lauren’s expression turned ice-cold. “Michael, you’re a complete idiot. If you keep running the Pharmaceutical Division like this, you’ll ruin Rhodes Corporation’s reputation sooner or later!”
Michael turned to Tiana, gritting his teeth. “Aunt Tiana, they’re still talking down on me even now! It seems not everyone appreciates my contributions to this company. Since that’s the case, I might as well step down and let Lauren be CEO instead. I’m done putting up with this disrespect!”
Lauren sneered. “Playing the victim now? Michael, you’re absolutely shameless.”
Tiana suddenly slammed the table. “Enough! Have you two argued enough?! Lauren, your time is running out. If you want to prove your products are better, then do it! If you can’t show results, I will hand the CEO’s seat to Michael. And if that happens, there’s no reason for you to stay in Jayrodale anymore. You should return to Blumedale and focus on preparing for your wedding!”
Lauren’s eyes burned with frustration and resentment as she stared at Tiana.
However, Tiana remained unfazed, turning away as she declared, “Meeting adjourned!”
With that, she walked out of the conference room without another word.
Michael stood up right after her, turning to Andrew with a smug grin. He made a throat-slitting gesture, radiating arrogance as if to say, “Aunt Tiana is on my side now. If anyone dares to challenge me, they’re doomed!”
Once the others had left, Marcus’ face darkened. He said, “It’s obvious that Mrs. Rhodes is putting too much trust in Bane and Michael. The entire Pharmaceutical Division–whether it’s funding or decision-making power–is now completely under Michael’s control. If this continues, it won’t end well for us.”
Lauren replied indifferently, “Her favoritism doesn’t surprise me anymore. I’m used to it.”
Marcus scowled. “But how is this fair to you, Ms. Rhodes?”
Andrew raised his hand, signaling him to stop. His gaze turned icy. “Fairness is something you earn with strength. If you sit around waiting for respect and expect people to play fair with you, that’s not fairness–that’s charity.”
Marcus let out a bitter chuckle. “Mr. Lloyd, I just can’t stand seeing Ms. Rhodes being treated like this. If she doesn’t become CEO, the company will be completely under Michael’s rule. And when that happens, I’ll resign and go home to spend time with my daughter.”
Lauren was caught off guard. “Mr. Chapman, there’s no need for that. Even without me, your skills and experience will still help you climb higher in Rhodes Corporation.”
Marcus let out a cold snort. “Wise ones will choose the right leader. If I were younger, I might have turned a blind eye to morals and followed Michael for money and ambition. But at this stage in my life, I’ve already earned more than enough to retire. More importantly, Mr. Lloyd, you saved both me and Lucy. If Ms. Rhodes is going to be suppressed like this, and I don’t stand with her, then I don’t deserve to call myself a man!”
Lauren sighed. “Mr. Chapman, you really don’t have to go this far.”
Marcus was about to respond when he suddenly noticed Andrew smirking. “Mr. Lloyd, why are you smiling?”
Andrew leaned back, amused. “Why are you two acting so defeated? What, just because Michael pulled in 20 million in one week, you think that’s some big achievement?”
Marcus straightened. “Mr. Lloyd, it is a big deal. Michael’s biggest advantage is Mrs. Rhodes’ support. The entire Pharmaceutical Division is under his control, and even I, as the director, barely have a say anymore. Tell me, under these circumstances, what support does Ms. Rhodes have? Where is her backing? Michael has taken everything for himself!”
Andrew’s smile faded. He raised a hand and pointed at himself, stating coldly, “She’s my woman, and you’re asking where her support or backing is?”