“Thank you, but it's all about focus. Chess demands concentration.

You seem preoccupied. Let's save the game for another day," Richard suggested.

Feeling a twinge of embarrassment, John, rubbing his fingers, got straight to the point. “Alright. I came by to inquire about reinvesting in the Harris Group. I did dedicate decades of my life to the company."

"Well, you'll have to approach Gerard for that. I've stepped away from managing the company.”

"Please, Richard!" John implored. However, Richard remained steadfast.

Reluctantly, John conceded and reached out to Gerard, extending an invitation for dinner.

It took a considerable amount of time before Gerard responded and his reply was a flat-out rejection.

Undeterred, John persisted, expressing his thoughts with a touch of cheekiness.

Gerard's retort came. "You're familiar with the Harris Group's policies, Mr. Martinez. We don't rehire anyone who quit the company in the past.”

John wore an annoyed expression. He harbored resentment but also feared the possibility of being shut out from the Harris Group permanently. Consequently, the next day, during office hours, he attempted to see Gerard. Regrettably, he was barred at the entrance.

“I'm a board member of this company," John growled.

The security guard responded, “I'm sorry, Mr. Martinez. You no Longer hold that position."

"I'm here to discuss my investment with Mr. Harris."

“Apologies, Mr. Martinez. Have you witnessed any shareholder returning to the company after divesting?" the security guard inquired, a tinge of disdain reflecting in his eyes.

News of John's resignation circulated among the employees of the Harris Group. Assuming his seniority, he haughtily confronted Gerard.

However, the Harris Group seamlessly carried on in his absence.

Enraged, John refused to believe that Gerard would truly dismiss him.

Thus, he lingered at the entrance.

Considering the annual dividend, valued at no less than 100 million dollars this year, that he stood to lose, John maintained an abundance of patience.

Even as dusk approached, John didn't see Gerard show up.

Aware of an exclusive passage for senior executives, John realized that, if Gerard wished, they might never cross paths again.

It dawned on John that Gerard had no intention of allowing him to reinvest in the Harris Group.

The realization sent a shiver down his spine and John succumbed to unconsciousness.

Word of John fainting at the company entrance quickly spread.