The Replacement He Never Wanted

Chapter 36 A Fake Document?

The discovery about Addison being an orphan left Isaac momentarily stunned. "Don't you feel embarrassed saying that? Aren't you even a little guilty?" Addison asked. Virginia had outdone herself, once again raising the bar for audacity. I've never encountered someone so openly shameless. To speak such blatant lies with a straight face, as if they were absolute truths, is truly mind-blowing. As Isaac neared, Virginia flashed him a slight smile. "Why would I feel guilty? It seems like you're the one who's guilty. If you're going to do something, you can't worry about others talking about it." Isaac, shoulders slightly hunched, walked forward. "Ms. Dolton, Mr. Johnston asked me to accompany you upstairs." He spoke briefly and then turned his attention away, standing off to the side as if he had no connection to Addison. Addison's eyes flicked to him, a sarcastic smile tugging at her lips. They are all opportunists. Virginia nodded as if amused. "You're such a great help." She then glanced at Addison, her gaze filled with an unreadable expression. "Don't mention it. It's an honor to escort you," Isaac replied smoothly, his eyes flickering with a touch of understanding. He had already chosen a side, aligning himself with Virginia, as it seemed a much safer bet than sticking with Addison, who had no power, no status, and was on the verge of divorce. Virginia took in Isaac's words, a pleased smile gracing her lips. "Let's head upstairs. We don't want Lance waiting and getting anxious." With that, she strode confidently toward the private elevator, Isaac trailing behind. Addison watched them disappear into the elevator, her thoughts drifting. She had already brought the divorce papers to the company—papers that Virginia herself had hastily pushed forward. Virginia wanted her to divorce Lance, but instead of achieving her goal, she had let the moment slip away. Virginia had failed to take her chance, but she had no one to blame but herself. Still, Addison was shocked that despite the clarity of her words and the undeniable evidence, Lance appeared completely indifferent. How could he so easily accept Virginia? Is she truly that captivating, or is Lance simply blinded by affection? Or perhaps Virginia is just the type of woman men can't seem to walk away from? A faint smile crept onto Addison's face. Well, if that's how things are, all I can do is offer my respects and best wishes. My only wish is that Lance will safeguard the Johnston family wealth and not let it fall into Virginia's hands. After all, that fortune is the result of my quiet, years-long efforts—and Harvey's as well ... And I hope Lance will take care of his elders, showing filial piety. I don't care about other matters. At least he'll be fulfilling Harvey's wish in a way ... Thinking of Harvey, a sharp pang of sorrow twisted in Addison's chest, disrupting her calm demeanor. When compared to everything Harvey had done for Johnston Enterprise, her own efforts seemed so insignificant. She took a deep breath, pushing her feelings down, then put on her sunglasses, preparing to leave. But as she stepped forward, she collided with a man and a woman. The man, tall and broad-shouldered, was dressed in luxurious clothing, his narrow eyes gleaming with sharpness and his complexion suggesting wealth. The woman was much younger, her appearance polished and well-maintained. She carried an expensive handbag, her eyes sharp and calculating. Addison stopped in her tracks. She instantly recognized them. Raymond and Teagan Johnston? Her mind raced. What are they doing here at the company? The surprise didn't last long. She quickly masked her emotions, walking past them with an indifferent expression. The two were engrossed in conversation, oblivious to Addison as she passed by. A few steps later, they stopped and sat down nearby. Addison followed and quietly took a seat behind them. Raymond and Teagan were both shareholders in Johnston Enterprise, and they were also Lance's uncle and aunt from his father's side. Ever since Walter's deadly accident, the two had been eyeing the CEO role, constantly trying to gain favor with the Johnstons and flattering Steven. To their shock, Steven had given the position to Lance, which had angered them greatly. They had even provoked Lance within the company on several occasions. When Addison first joined the Johnstons, Raymond and Teagan had been the most aggressive in their interference.Back then, in order to secure Lance's position as CEO, Addison had given them a large sum of money—enough to ensure their financial comfort for decades to come. They had promised never to meddle in Johnston Enterprise again, but now here they were, back at the company. What are they planning? "Is the information you have reliable?" Teagan asked coolly as she settled next to Raymond. "Of course. Lance was in a company meeting yesterday. Everyone knows about it. If you don't believe me, just ask anyone who works here," Raymond replied confidently. "Good. I still think Dad shouldn't have given such an important position to that fool, Lance. What does he know about running a big company?" Teagan's voice was filled with irritation. Raymond sighed. "It was Dad's mistake. If I had been given the position, this whole mess wouldn't have happened. How could something as important as the expiration of product license slip through the cracks? There wasn't even a backup plan." Addison listened intently, her gaze narrowing. The expiration of the product license? They must be talking about the Levosulin license, the main drug for Johnston Enterprise, which depends on Raven's authorization. But that's supposed to expire next year. Why are they rushing? Is Johnston Enterprise working on a new drug? I've heard about the new projects at the last conference. Raymond, realizing he had raised his voice, lowered it, "Once we've worked out the details with Lance using the license, he won't be able to refuse. This position will definitely be mine." Addison's eyes grew icy. How could they possibly have Raven's authorization? I've developed the drug, and my signature is crucial for the authorization. I have never signed anything. It has to be a forgery! They plan to use a fake document to force Lance's hand? The audacity they have to go to such lengths is a disgrace to the Johnstons. After taking so much money and promising never to meddle again, they broke their word without a second thought. How shameless. Teagan nodded but still seemed uneasy. "What if someone finds out the license is fake? Are you sure this will work?" Raymond's expression hardened. "Who could prove I forged it? Raven's CEO isn't even in Halton. How would Lance know if it's real? Besides, we'll only show it to him briefly. "We'll have Lance sign the documents relinquishing his CEO position first, then give him the license. I'm not foolish enough to show him the license beforehand," Raymond added, a smug smile creeping onto his face as if the CEO position was already his. Addison sneered. It seems they are sure of their victory. She stood up.

Previous Next