He Cheated. I Rose.
When Arthur arrived, the secretary promptly informed Chloe, who was in her top-floor office. Scott learned of his arrival immediately and grew so agitated that he wanted to go downstairs personally to greet him. "Hurry, invite him up. I'll receive him myself," Scott instructed the secretary. He was so eager that he began straightening his suit, afraid of appearing the slightest bit unprofessional. "Mr. Lewis, you're not the one calling the shots here—at least not during this one-month agreement with the board. For now, I am in charge of Lewis Group," Chloe stated firmly. Scott had already reached the elevator doors, but her words brought him to an abrupt halt. The partnership was over. Chloe had given the order. Arthur's personal visit was likely related to that decision. Myers Group had already suffered losses exceeding tens of millions due to recent public statements. Scott understood that Arthur's presence today, along with what he'd expressed at the press conference, was motivated by his feelings for Chloe. Arthur still cared about her—he was trying to win her back. This wasn't the time for impulsive reactions. There might still be a chance to salvage the partnership. If Myers Group, its largest partner, ended cooperation and withdrew its 500 million annual investment, Lewis Group could face a financial shortfall exceeding one billion dollars. New partners? In a city like Capaville, with all its major families and corporate players, who would step in with that kind of capital under these circumstances? It was practically impossible. Since Arthur had come on his own initiative, there was still room for negotiation. But given Chloe's current attitude, how could they even broach the subject? Scott felt utterly helpless. He was beginning to regret signing that authorization on a whim. If things continued like this for a month, Lewis Group would likely go bankrupt within weeks. What would happen to all the employees then? Just as Scott stood there uncertainly, the elevator chimed, and Arthur strode directly into the executive suite. "Mr. Myers, how can I help you?" The secretary moved to intercept him. "Step aside. I'm here to see Chloe," Arthur snapped. His eyes swept across the office, first spotting Scott standing outside the chairman's office, then shifting to the vice president's office beside it. Without hesitation, he headed straight for it. "Chloe, we need to talk," Arthur said, then quickly added. "This is about the partnership between Myers Group and Lewis Group. Strictly business—nothing personal." After he spoke, the office fell silent as everyone waited for Chloe's response. The secretary approached the door, looking visibly tense. Just as she was about to speak, Chloe's voice came from inside. "Come in." Hearing this, Arthur straightened his posture, adjusted his tie, and pushed open the door to the vice president's office. Seeing this, Scott sensed an opportunity to salvage the situation and quickly followed Arthur inside. In the office, Chloe was reviewing company reports and data. Hearing the footsteps, she looked up and saw Arthur standing before her, with Scott trailing behind. "Mr. Myers, you have quite a bit of free time—visiting during business hours," Chloe remarked, raising a brow slightly. Arthur studied her calm expression. There wasn't a trace of extra emotion when she saw him. Did she really despise him that much? He had so much he wanted to say, but he knew that if he brought up personal matters, Chloe would likely have security escort him out immediately. He had come prepared. "Ms. Lewis, I'm here today specifically to discuss the cooperation and development between our two companies," Arthur said. He walked forward, pulled out a chair, and sat opposite her. He placed a comprehensive document on the desk—a proposal Donald had prepared, representing the most favorable terms Myers Group could offer. Chloe glanced at it but showed no reaction. "Mr. Myers, I don't believe there's anything left worth collaborating on between Lewis Group and Myers Group," Chloe said, clicking her tongue. "As I recall, I had the termination agreement delivered to Myers Group immediately. Don't tell me you didn't receive it—that shouldn't be the case." Arthur clenched his jaw. He had come precisely because he'd seen that termination notice.He knew Chloe had become vice president and a shareholder of Lewis Group. He was also aware of the one-month performance agreement she'd entered into with the board. Turning Lewis Group from loss to profit within a month was a monumental challenge—one even he might not be able to pull off. Over the years, Lewis Group had developed steadily but lacked innovation and reform. Chloe's decision to implement changes as soon as she took over was strategically sound—but it also carried significant risk. One misstep could cause irreversible damage to the company. What she needed now more than anything was stability and a substantial infusion of capital to support those changes. As long as the partnership with Myers Group continued, Myers would transfer 500 million in collaboration funds to Lewis Group on a regular annual basis.
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