Chapter752

Evelyn had already been briefed on the situation before arriving at Bluum Tower. Arthur hadinformedherofJayson’s critical condition.

Ariel had asked for Evelyn’s help to persuade certain board members and speak up at key momentstokeepthesituation under control.

Although deeply concerned about Jayson,Evelyn had spoken to Ariel on the phone just minutes earlier. Arielhadsaid, “I need your help. Please trust me to handle this.”

And Evelyn had chosen to put her faith in Ariel.

After hearing Jayda’s mocking remarks, Evelyn shot her a cold glance. “You and Kyle rarely attend meetings at headquarters. Still, you should be more careful with your words. Reckless comments about company affairs are inappropriate.”

Jayda’s smile faltered slightly.

“Then why isn’t Jayson here?” she asked. “If he can’t handle the situation, maybe it’s time he stepped aside for someone more capable.”

“If Shane were truly capable,” Ariel said as she stepped out of the elevator, her tone flat but cutting, “the Isbell branch would’ve become a globally recognized corporation by now. But that hasn’t happened, has it? Or was it simply because you and Shane weren’t interested in making it happen?”

Jayda’s face darkened, momentarily speechless. A frown creased her forehead. “Ari, you should show more respect when speaking to your elders.”

Evelyn raised an eyebrow and replied coolly, “Respect is earned through civility. Sadly, that rule doesn’t seem to apply to you.”

Jayda’s expression turned frigid. She had always known Evelyn was someone not to be trifled with.

Evelyn came from a powerful family, and the two had never gotten along. Evelyn had always looked down on her.

Still, being openly ridiculed in front of Ariel was deeply humiliating.

Jayda forced a smile. “It’s fine. Our family will be celebrating some good news today, so I won’t take your words to heart.”

Ariel couldn’t be bothered to respond to those remarks. She turned to Evelyn. “Let’s head inside.”

With Evelyn by her side–an official shareholder–no one could question Ariel’s right to attend or speak at the meeting.

Evelyn took note of the IV drip attached to Ariel’s arm and the cast on her left hand. Her brows furrowed. “Are you alright?”

Ariel replied softly, “I’m fine.”

Evelyn pursed her lips, studying her for a moment before nodding in return.

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Chapter 752

+25BONUS

When they entered the conference room, it was clear the board had already reached a consensus.

Shane sat with a confident smile, seemingly in control of the situation.

He paused briefly upon seeing Ariel. But she no longer worked for Bluum Corp. What could she possiblydohere?

After Evelyn arrived, one of the board members glanced at Shane and Kyle before speaking tactfully. “I’ve heard Mr. Jayson has been hospitalized. That means he won’t be able to oversee company matters for now.

“If he’s unable to manage the government partnership project, we risk losing it to a competitor. Fortunately, Shane is here. He can step in and take over.”

Evelyn scoffed. “If even Jayson couldn’t resolve the issue, what makes you think someone else can?”

Shane didn’t seem bothered by Evelyn’s pointed remarks. “I’ve built strong connections and secured a meeting with the relevant government officials. I’m confident I can finalize the negotiations and complete the project. There’s no need for concern.”

“He’s right. Time is money. The longer the delay, the greater the risk.”

“Shane is doing the company a favor by stepping up.”

Ariel straightened her back, her expression cold and commanding. “Who says Shane is the only one capable of solving this?”

Her words cut through the room like a blade. Shane and Kyle both furrowed their brows, turning toward her.

Even Evelyn was momentarily stunned.

Another board member spoke up. “Ms. Walker, I’m afraid you may not fully understand the gravity of the situation. You’re excellent in your research field, but this is a high–stakes matter. We can’t afford even the slightest mistake.

“Jayson is unable to handle work matters for now, and the board’s interests are on the line. If no one steps up, who will take responsibility for the consequences?”

Ariel’s gaze swept across the spacious conference room. Her voice was calm and resolute. “I will.”

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