Adrian called an emergency board meeting.
To secure Stella Group, Torres Group had invested enormous human resources, material resources, and capital. Even Torres Group’s entire Christmas marketing campaign had been built around this partnership.
If the collaboration failed, Torres Group’s losses would be immeasurable.
Adrian sat at the head of the table, his expression dark and
stormy.
But the directors looked even worse.
Lillian sat in her chair, pale–faced and hunched over, trying her best to minimize her presence.
Everyone knew exactly why Stella Group had rejected the partnership.
But at this moment, someone had to step up and take responsibility, giving the directors an explanation.
Adrian remained silent, and the directors maintained their silence as well.
After what felt like an eternity, Adrian spoke in a hoarse voice:
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“Harper’s major work error led to the failure of our partnership with Stella Group. I’ve decided to demote Harper to Vice President.
“Additionally, given Lillian’s outstanding performance since becoming Vice President, Lillian will assume the role of President of Torres Group. This decision takes effect immediately.”
Everyone in the conference room, including Lillian, stared at Adrian in shock, never expecting him to make such a decision.
One director started to speak, but Adrian immediately raised his hand to stop him. “I’ve made my decision.”
Several directors angrily stood up and left the conference room in disappointment.
The remaining directors sighed and departed in silence.
I sat quietly in my seat. After all the directors had left, only Adrian, Lillian, and I remained in the conference room.
Lillian looked at Adrian with reddened eyes. “Mr. Torres, I…”
Adrian raised his hand, cutting off Lillian’s words.
He walked over to Lillian and bent down to embrace her gently. “Lillian, I told you before. I was powerless to help with the grievances you suffered in the past. From now on, I have the
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ability to protect you.”
In Adrian’s embrace, Lillian remained unusually quiet.
I tapped on the table, interrupting them.
Adrian said to me: “Harper, you don’t need to feel wronged. Even as Vice President, half of the money Lillian earns for Torres Group will be yours. What more could you want?”
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I shook my head. “I’m not dissatisfied about anything. I deliberately stayed until the end just to say something to you.”
Adrian finally gave me a fraction of his attention.
I smiled and said: “Adrian, remember today. Don’t regret it.”
