Previously, Gerard had publicly displayed affection for Lilah on Twitter several times, gathering a sizable following. Everyone believed he was a faithful boyfriend.
However, the sudden revelation of Laura's pregnancy shattered this image, leaving netizens unable to accept the reality.
Despite Gerard's affiliation with the prestigious Harris family, the netizens couldn't contain their anger and unleashed a torrent of abuse.
Lilah also monitored the plummeting stock price of the Harris Group, indicating a continuous decline.
She guessed Gerard must be under immense stress.
The news of Laura's pregnancy swiftly circulated online, prompting an urgent meeting by the board of directors in the Harris Group.
John's agitation was palpable as he addressed Gerard, saying, “We held you in high regard, Gerard. You've brought substantial profits to our company. How could you be so careless? Your actions have deceived us all. If your feelings for Lilah are genuine, how could you have been involved with Laura? Now, with Laura's pregnancy, if you persist in avoiding responsibility, I fear our company's public image will be irreparably damaged by your actions."
John's sentiments resonated among the board members.
Gerard, fixing his gaze upon them sharply, remained silent, carefully absorbing their words.
Observing Gerard's quiet demeanor, John perceived a flicker of guilt, prompting him to speak as if an elder advising a younger peer.
“Gerard, we've reached a critical juncture. You must marry Laura."
"I'm curious," Gerard suddenly interjected sternly. ‘Mr. Martinez, your age seems to cloud your judgment; you even believe in such baseless rumors."
A trace of mockery laced Gerard's words, altering John's expression.
"I personally verified with Tracy Rhodes herself. Do you think I base decisions on mere hearsay?" John retorted, his tone defensive.
He confirmed the matter was true. John's assertion prompted subtle shifts in the expressions of the other board members. Their gazes toward Gerard held a blend of emotions. Previously, they had held the belief that Gerard was an exception among men. However, it had become evident that he, too, fell short of their expectations.
"Really? If she claims it's true, it's true, huh?" Gerard asked.
“Gerard, are you shirking your responsibility? Do you comprehend the repercussions on both families' ties?" John's voice dripped with a harshness bordering on a threat. "If your allegiance to the Harris Group still stands, agreeing to the union is imperative," John stated firmly, assuming an elder's authority.
The other board members observed the tense exchange with trepidation, questioning whether John's confidence bordered on arrogance.
“What if I refuse?" Gerard asked, his tone cold and expressionless.
While he had shown John respect, it didn't grant John the liberty to act arrogantly before him.
John's annoyance surfaced. "In that case, I'll withdraw my investment.
The Harris Group's stock price has been plummeting. Exiting now might not be a bad idea."
Shock rippled through the others present. The conference room's atmosphere froze, each person holding their breath. John's threat to withdraw his investment from Gerard startled everyone. They wondered what Gerard would do.
Observing Gerard's stoic demeanor, John was convinced that Gerard lacked the audacity to permit the withdrawal of the investment. After all, he was a founding member of the Harris Group and a close friend of Richard's. His departure would undoubtedly lead to a significant loss for the company.