Chapter 158:

For years, Benjamin believed his negotiation skills were the key to successful deals, but in reality, his partners had been following Elena’s directions, putting on a show for his benefit. The real reason they chose to collaborate was the promise of substantial profits Elena guaranteed.

As a teenager, Elena had negotiated deals with these shrewd businessmen, maintaining a calm demeanor as she assured them of a 150% net profit within a year. She even promised that if she failed to meet this target, they could buy the Reed Group at a minimal price proportional to their investment.

Such boldness was rarely seen even among seasoned professionals, yet it came from a teenager. These businessmen reasoned that even without profit, acquiring the Reed Group would be worthwhile. So, they signed a one-year contract. To their surprise, they earned a 150% profit in less than a year. From then on, they held Elena in high regard, eager to follow her lead. Any project she backed always proved highly profitable.

Over the years, the Reed family built considerable wealth, securing their status as a prominent family in Foiclens. Their business partners also thrived, becoming influential figures in the city’s economy. By now, several construction industry CEOs in Foiclens had received Elena’s email and quickly shared the news among themselves.

Osiris Benson, head of the most valuable company among the recipients, was deep in thought, his brow furrowed after reading the email. With a cigarette hanging from his lips and a serious expression, he said, “Breaking off our partnership with the Reed family now would be too risky.” The others shared his concern.

“If it were only about the Reed family, it wouldn’t be such a worry. We might make a bit less money, but we’ve profited significantly under Elena’s guidance over the years…”

“The Reed family is on the verge of forming an alliance with the Griffiths family. Alone, neither the Reeds nor the Griffiths pose much of a threat, but the—”

The Spencer family does! The Griffiths family recently connected with the Spencer family in Klathe, and rumors say the Spencers plan to entrust the Griffiths with a portion of the island’s duty-free zone development.

“No one dares cross the Spencer family.”

Everyone turned their attention to Osiris, awaiting his decision.

Lᴀtеst chαptєrs in g𝒶lnovels.çøm

His tanned, rugged face was calm as he quietly smoked. After finishing his cigarette, he finally said, “I’ll speak with Elena.”

On behalf of the email recipients, Osiris called Elena to explain the cooperation between the Griffiths and Spencer families, voicing their concerns and offering apologies.

The summer heat lingered, dogs panting by the roadside to cool down. Though the sun was beginning to set, the heavy warmth remained.

Elena stood inside the old house, holding her phone. The house was dimly lit, largely because the banyan tree outside nearly blocked all sunlight, casting shadows over her.

Though her lowered lashes hid the emotions in her eyes, the blue veins visible on her hand subtly revealed her anger.

Eventually, she left the house.

The elderly people who usually gathered beneath the banyan tree had left to prepare their meals.

With a blank expression, Elena walked past the banyan tree and entered the alley. Her slim figure moved quietly through the dark passage, finally stepping out into the daylight.

.

.

.