"I offer my sincerest apologies, Miss Phillips. My absence this morning was inexcusable. I pledge to redouble my efforts in the future. You can trust that such a lapse will not recur," one manager promptly vowed.

Upon hearing this, the others chorused in agreement, each earnestly entreating Lilah for forgiveness.

Lilah cast an impassive glance upon the contrite group.

They deliberately set aside considerations of the company's profitability and resorted to thinly veiled threats aimed at the CEO.

Furthermore, Lilah failed to recognize any familiar faces among them, leading her to surmise that these were likely employees groomed under the tutelage of Matthew.

"I hold the belief that your competence will open doors to exceptional opportunities in other companies. I insist that you depart."

Lilah's demeanor remained icy and resolute, sending the executives' hearts Just as in their plummeting. they contemplated persisting plea, she reached for her phone to summon security. Consequently, they departed with heavy hearts, albeit reluctantly.

At the threshold, they deflected all blame onto Howard and vented their frustration.

"Mr. Brown, what recourse do we have now? I have dependent elders and children to provide for. I cannot afford to lose this job!"

"Indeed. We placed our trust in your leadership, all in the pursuit of aiding your ascent to CEO. And now, we're forced to Leave."

Howard, wrestling with his own vexation, considered them rather obtuse. Their audacity in assigning blame to him only exacerbated his irritation. “Let me be clear. I did not advocate for your resignations. You chose to take that step of your own accord."

"What course of action do we pursue now?"

Desperation began to grip everyone, and the unexpected turn of events left them in disbelief, feeling as though Howard had severed their last lifeline.

In a sudden eruption of anger, the group cursed Howard, but he harbored no inclination to attend to their predicament.

Upon exiting the office, Howard placed a call and subsequently made his way to a hotel. Within the confines of a room, a woman eagerly awaited his arrival.

"Sweetheart..." Howard beamed and embraced her without hesitation.

As the moments unfolded, Howard found himself immersed in a world of pleasure and gradually, his sense of despondency was overshadowed by the woman's tender affections. This very woman was the one who had earlier ridiculed Lilah in the elevator. Gazing up at Howard, she remarked, “Howard, you needn't worry. Lilah is utterly clueless. She overheard my mockery earlier today and chose not to react. Her actions have affronted a multitude of individuals this time around.

It's only a matter of time before the Phillips Group falls into your hands."

Howard relished her compliment. “Humph! Naturally. She genuinely believes herself to be the company's CEO. In truth, she's merely a woman."

At the Starlight Mansion...

Lilah had initially harbored a desire to inquire of Gerard about some work-related queries but, much to her astonishment, Gerard was conspicuously absent, leaving her with the distinct impression that a rather significant company matter was unfolding.

As a result, she chose to keep Jerrold company until the clock struck nine and, once he'd fallen asleep, she discreetly retreated to seek her own rest.

The following morning, a message from Gerard awaited her eager eyes.

He extended an invitation, suggesting that should her schedule permit, she could venture to his company where he would give her guidance.