Chapter 96
Evan answered the phone, casually waving at the senior executives clustered in his office. They practically bolted, relieved. They realized the “Prince,” who’d been abroad, had been quietly biding his time, sharpening his skills. He wasn’t just a pretty face leveraging his family’s resources. They’d been repeatedly proven wrong. Zach, in the corner, felt like he was dreaming.
“Secretary Wen, something up?” Evan’s voice was calm.
Me:“I was supposed to return to work the day after tomorrow; my leg is healed. But I need to go see my grandmother…Could I have another week off?” I tried to keep my voice steady, but the weariness must have shown. Evan paused.“You’re getting pretty good at skipping work. Don’t tell me you’re planning to milk this work injury for all it’s worth.”
“No…”
“Be at work the day after tomorrow.”
“But five days…”
“Not even half a day. I expect to see you tomorrow morning.”
I hesitated, then deflated. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize the divorce would be so complicated. If I had known, I wouldn’t have applied for the job, causing you so much trouble. Give me five days, and I’ll handle everything. Otherwise…”
Evan:“Otherwise what?”
Me:“It will reflect badly on you.” The scandal had been brewing for nearly three hours; he likely already knew. I wasn’t confident I could turn public opinion around in two days. My constant presence at Jones Group, always seen with Evan, would only fuel the rumors.
“Ah, so that’s what you’re worried about.” Evan’s tone shifted.“What’s your plan?”
I paused.“Full–scale attack. Negotiation.”
Evan:“?” He sighed.“Secretary Wen, you’re scaring me.”
Me:“I don’t usually do this, but they’ve pushed me too far. I have to be ruthless.”
“I mean, your blind confidence is terrifying.”
“I have my methods.” I retorted.
“Olivia, courage is good, but it can’t replace skill. A unicorn charging into a pride of lions is suicide.” “Even if it’s suicide, I’ll take down the mastermind first. We can die together!” I regretted my impulsive words. Evan’s tone turned serious. His sudden coldness was palpable, even through the phone.
I apologized, “Sorry, I shouldn’t have said that.”
Evan’s tone softened. “You represent me now, my reputation. Come to work on time. I’ll figure out a solution to this. How does that sound?” His voice was persuasive, assuring me that any problem could be solved with his help. I didn’t doubt his ability. He was Evan. Having a top tycoon on your side felt like having a ticket to Noah’s Ark… But was he being “too” nice? Even if he was helpful, even if I’d performed well in Singapore, even if I…” “his person*?
< Chapter 97
Chapter 97
