The moment the guests heard that only one company had been approved for the contract, the entire banquet hall became completely silent. For a few seconds, no one spoke. Then whispers slowly filled every corner of the hall."I thought three companies would be selected.""So did I.""The advertisement clearly mentioned three partners.""Then why only one?"Another businessman smiled as he shook his head."This is McAuthur Conglomerate.""They have always done things differently.""If the CEO changed his mind, then there must be a reason."Another elderly guest nodded in agreement."Exactly.""That is why they remain the biggest conglomerate in the country."A woman sitting close by smiled."I am only interested in knowing who that lucky company is.""The company has just won a contract worth billions of dollars."Another man joined the discussion."You know why many giant construction companies never applied?"Everyone looked at him.He continued calmly."The advertisement stated that

Emily froze after hearing Ava's words. Her eyes widened in surprise, and for a few seconds she forgot where she was standing. She never expected that there was still another message from the mysterious CEO. The applause that had filled the banquet hall gradually died down as Ava lifted the microphone once again. Within moments, the hall became completely silent.Every guest fixed their attention on the stage, eager to hear what else the new CEO had instructed.Ava smiled confidently before she continued speaking."Ladies and gentlemen, the new CEO has not only awarded this contract to Wilson Harris Group of Companies on merit, but he has also promised to give the company full support throughout the execution of this project."She paused briefly before adding,"McAuthur Conglomerate will provide every necessary construction machine, technical equipment, and material support that Wilson Harris Group of Companies will require until the project is successfully completed.”“The CEO belie

The heavy slap echoed across the entire parking lot.Paa!The sharp sound rang through the air like a gunshot.Even the security officers were stunned.None of them expected George to slap Bethany that hard. A few of them instinctively looked at one another but remained where they stood. The atmosphere instantly became heavy. Everyone could see that George had completely lost his temper.Before Bethany could even lift her face to look at him, another slap landed on her other cheek.Paa!The second slap was even louder than the first.Bethany staggered backward before going completely on the floor. Her ears rang loudly, and for a few seconds, everything around her became blurry. She could hardly believe the man who had always treated her gently was the one striking her so mercilessly.George pointed at her with trembling fingers as anger filled his face."Have you gone mad? Do you want to destroy me?""Do you want to destroy the Anderson family?""Do you even know what you have done i

Johnson smiled a little, but at the same time, he became curious to know what Emily had for him. He stole a quick glance at her before returning his eyes to the road. The excitement on her beautiful face had not disappeared since they left the banquet hall. It was obvious that winning the contract had completely changed her mood.Emily noticed the curiosity written all over Johnson's face. She smiled shyly before speaking."It is nothing much."Johnson looked at her again. "Nothing much?"She nodded."Yes. I only want to pay you back a little for encouraging me and believing in me.”“Everyone looked at my company as if it was already dead, but you never did. You kept telling me to believe in myself even when I had no connections."Johnson sighed softly and smiled."Emily, I only did what a friend should always do for another friend.""I wasn't expecting anything in return. I was only doing my duty as your friend."Emily smiled warmly."I know.""I truly know. But I still want to appr

Bethany's phone was still on loudspeaker when George ended the call.Beep!The sound of the disconnected call echoed inside the silent sitting room.Bethany remained frozen. Her trembling hand slowly lowered the phone from her ear. Her breathing became uneven, and her legs suddenly felt weak. The color on her face disappeared completely.Mrs. Clifford also stood speechless. Everything George had said was clearly heard because the phone had been on loudspeaker.For several long seconds, neither of them spoke. The silence inside the room was terrifying.Bethany suddenly staggered backward and grabbed the arm of the sofa before she could fall."Mom..."Her voice shook badly."Mom… I'm finished."Fresh tears rolled down her face.Mrs. Clifford quickly held her shoulders."My daughter… Calm down. We will think of something."Bethany shook her head repeatedly."No. There is nothing to think about. I'm finished.""If George and the Anderson family cannot stand against the McAuthur family… Wh