Back when Gonzales Holdings was trending for all the wrong reasons and Caitlin was being relentlessly attacked online, the company's stock had plummeted. Everyone thought the company was doomed. As a result, most of the

shareholders had sold their shares, leaving only a small, loyal few to stand by the company.

Now, the tables had turned dramatically. Not only had Gonzales Holdings not collapsed, but it was rising like a phoenix from the ashes. How could the shareholders who had jumped ship not feel a bitter sting of regret?

So, the moment they saw the news, they had all rushed to Gonzales Manor, hoping Stuart would, for old times' sake, give them another chance.

But upon arriving, they were met with a harsh reality.

Back when they were shareholders, they could come and go from the Gonzales residence as they pleased. But now... they couldn't even get past the front gate.

Clark Blake's expression changed. "How can that be?"

Why wouldn't the Gonzales family let them in? Even if they had sold their shares, the relationships they had built over the years should still count for something. How could the Gonzales family be so cold?

Tony Dunn nodded grimly. "It's true. Otherwise, we wouldn't all be standing out here."

He looked at Clark Blake. "By the way, Mr. Blake, you've been with Mr. Gonzales from the beginning! You've shared hardships and successes. Why don't you try talking to the gate guards? Maybe they'll let us in out of respect for you."

Most of them were just minor shareholders, but Clark Blake was different. Not only was he a major shareholder, but he also had a

Professionally, they were partners personally, they were friends Tony believed that if Clark Blake made the request, Stuart would surely show him some courtesy.

personal friendship with net

Clark Blake nodded. "Alright, you all wait here. I'll go see what I can do."

He walked toward the main gate but was immediately stopped by two guards who eyed him up and down. "This is a private residence. No entry without an appointment."

Clark Blake forced a smile and adjusted his tie. "I'm Clark Blake. I'm not only a long-time shareholder of Gonzales Holdings, but I'm also one of your master's closest friends!"

The guards, of course, recognized him. As a shareholder, Clark Blake had been a frequent visitor. On any other day, they would have respectfully welcomed him inside. But today was different. A scornful look crossed one guard's face. "Mr. Blake is your idea of a closest friend' someone who runs for the hills the second the company is in trouble?"

"You ran faster than a rabbit when Gonzales Holdings was in crisis, and now that things are looking up, you have the nerve to show your face here again. Tsk, tsk. I've truly never seen anyone so shameless."

The words hit Clark Blake like a slap, and his face turned beet red.

How dare they! This was

outrageous! So what if he sold his

shares? Stuart himself had approved

it. He was simply mitigating his

risks, as any smart businessman

would. He didn't need a lecture from

a mere security guard.

Tired of arguing, Clark Blake took out his phone, intending to call Stuart and have

him come out to get him.