Ch. 821..830
Chapter 821: Showing up is not too good_1
It was only now that it became clear that he and Adrian Zhekova really were father and son.
The little one held his face and shook his head, “I look so much like my dad, why do we need a test? You can tell we’re father and son just by looking at the photos.”
Adrian Zhekova, hearing their son’s words, was afraid that Cindy Clarke might misunderstand that he didn’t trust her.
He hastily coughed and said, “Didn’t I have no recollection of how I looked when I was young? Looking at my face in the mirror now, I can’t recall how I looked as a child.”
Cindy Clarke laughed, “I didn’t blame you, why are you in a rush to explain yourself?”
“…” Adrian Zhekova shook his head and said, “No, I’m not in a hurry.”
Cindy Clarke: “…”
Alright, you’re not in a hurry.
Since Gabriel Zhekova’s family had just arrived, Aunt Evans didn’t dare to prepare lunch too early.
If they arrived late and lunch got cold, it would not be good.
But when Gabriel Zhekova’s family arrived and started talking about looking at photos.
After Aunt Evans helped find the photos, she quickly went to the kitchen to prepare lunch.
The good thing was that all the ingredients were already prepped and just needed to be cooked.
The most troublesome part of cooking is preparing the ingredients.
That is the most time-consuming part.
Once everything is in the pot, it moves quickly.
Aunt Evans said it would be ready in an hour and hurried off to the kitchen.
Cindy Clarke didn’t offer to help either.
Because long before Gabriel Zhekova’s arrival, Old Madam had told Cindy Clarke that today was the Family Feast.
The event was partly meant to introduce Cindy to Gabriel and Jayden Zhekova’s families.
In other words, Cindy was the star of the day.
If it were only Jayden Zhekova’s family, letting Cindy cook a couple of dishes to demonstrate her skills wouldn’t be a problem.
After all, they were all family.
But because Gabriel Zhekova’s family was also present, Cindy going into the kitchen would be unwise.
Gabriel Zhekova might perceive it as though Cindy isn’t worthy of respect, born to serve others.
Cindy’s role in Zhekova Family was to cook dishes for family members.
Undoubtedly, Old Madam knew that Gabriel Zhekova would see others in this light.
That youngster was an opportunist, always thinking he was right.
Of course, Old Madam’s refusal for Cindy to cook wasn’t just because of Gabriel Zhekova’s opportunism; she genuinely felt that Gabriel Zhekova wasn’t worthy of eating Cindy’s cuisine, which she made herself.
Cindy’s cooking was always prepared with heart.
This heartfelt effort wasn’t solely for cuisine for the sake of cuisine.
Cindy’s intent, thoughts, and feelings were also included.
Every dish had Cindy’s heartfelt thoughts in it.
In every dish were her feelings that she wanted to express.
Such cuisine was precious.
It wasn’t just the ingredients or taste that made it valuable.
It was the thought that Cindy put into it.
A dish contained its maker’s intent.
How often do you get the opportunity to taste such sincere cuisine?
Cindy’s cooking was precious in this way.
But giving it to Gabriel Zhekova would be a waste.
It would waste both Cindy’s delicious cooking and her heartfelt sincerity.
So, when Old Madam spoke, Cindy agreed.
Opportunities to prepare dishes for Jayden Zhekova’s family would come another time anyway.
No need for it to happen today.
Aunt Evans was in the kitchen busy preparing lunch.
Gabriel Zhekova glanced at Cindy and said, “I heard you did pretty well in the Cooking Competition.”
“I just did my best,” Cindy replied.
She didn’t know much about Gabriel Zhekova.
Anyone else saying it, Cindy would smile and say thank you, but who knew Gabriel Zhekova’s intent?
So, Cindy was cautious.
As expected, Gabriel Zhekova brought it up not to praise Cindy.
He frowned and said solemnly, “But before you married Adrian, it didn’t matter since no one knew about your relationship with him.”
“But now that you are married to Adrian, appearing on a public competition isn’t right.”
Adrian Zhekova’s face darkened, preparing to speak, but Victoria Wheeler had already beaten him to it: “How does being married mean she can’t make public appearances? This isn’t ancient times when women are confined to the house after marriage. What era is this, and you’re still talking like that?”
According to Gabriel Zhekova, should she, too, avoid going out and seeing people after marriage?
Gabriel Zhekova shook his head, “That’s not what I mean.”
Surprisingly, Gabriel Zhekova wasn’t angry at Victoria Wheeler’s attitude.
Instead, he explained, “Can you compare a lady going out for social occasions to participating in a competition with ordinary people?”
“Cindy competes on stage with so many spectators. Isn’t it just like watching a monkey show? The Cooking Competition is basically a Reality Show.”
“What’s a Reality Show? It’s a show for the audience, to entertain them. Can any member of the Zhekova Family become an amusing spectacle for the public?”
“Those actors, to put it nicely, are stars, but they are just performers. They participate in shows, to amuse the audience.”
“Can we Zhekovas do the same? Can we become jesters?”
Jayden Zhekova didn’t like hearing that: “Second Brother, you’re wrong. Olivia Davis is also an actress, as is Zhiqing. Are they, being from the Hamilton and York families, not allowed to see people? As actresses, should they be looked down upon?”
Gabriel Zhekova’s face darkened.
His little brother usually didn’t help him, but he didn’t expect him to belittle him at such a time, siding with Maverick Zhekova’s family against him.
Gabriel Zhekova blurted out in anger, “That’s the Hamilton Family and York Family’s business, how is it comparable to ours? If they don’t mind, does that mean we shouldn’t either?”
“Don’t compare our family with others. Each has its own situation. Otherwise, why divide The Big Eight families? How about merging them all?”
Old Master spoke in a deep voice, “Gabriel, you’re just argumentative. I think having Cindy, who is so talented, is a credit to our family.”
“We are in the catering industry, after all. Cindy’s masterful cooking aligns perfectly with our business.” Old Master said, “We operate a restaurant, and Cindy is a chef. It’s ideal for our family.”
“Besides, Cindy is our granddaughter-in-law, Maverick and Victoria’s daughter-in-law, Adrian’s wife. Your Aunt and I don’t find it inappropriate or shameful for Cindy to participate in the competition,” Old Master turned to Old Madam, “Don’t you agree?”
“Yes,” Old Madam nodded.
Old Master then asked Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler, “What about you two?”
Chapter 822: Chapter 822: You’d Better Quit_1
Maverick Zhekova immediately said, “Of course, we don’t mind Cindy Clarke continuing the competition, in fact, we will support her.”
“We don’t think Cindy Clarke’s participation in the competition is a disgrace to the Zhekova Family, on the contrary, I think that Cindy Clarke’s good results make people see the strength of the Zhekova Family even more.” Maverick Zhekova said.
“Our family is in the food and beverage industry, and Cindy Clarke is a well-known chef. Cindy is inseparable from our family, and her culinary skills are visible to everyone, which can further prove the sharp eye of our Zhekova Family and the quality of our restaurant.”
“Exactly.” Victoria Wheeler nodded, “We certainly support her.”
“Just think of it, even the daughters-in-law of our Zhekova Family are professional chefs. Our family, from top to bottom, are all professionals, isn’t our restaurant’s quality even more trustworthy?”
The Old Madam then laughed and said to Gabriel Zhekova, “Edward, look, our family doesn’t mind, so you don’t have to worry and take this matter to heart.”
“We don’t just not mind, we also support Cindy.”
The Old Madam was just a step away from directly stating that Gabriel Zhekova is a meddler.
Gabriel Zhekova took a deep breath, suppressing the anger in his heart.
These people truly do not appreciate what they have.
They are playing recklessly with the reputation of the Zhekova Family.
This is why he is striving for the position of Family Head.
They all think that his struggle for the Family Head position is him, being delusional and causing trouble for no reason.
But who knows his real thoughts.
These people are too willful, always thinking that the Zhekova Family is so deeply rooted, that no matter what they do, it will not impact the family.
Gabriel Zhekova felt that he could not let these people continue to behave recklessly.
He must grab the position of Family Head.
To prevent the Zhekova Family from collapsing in their hands.
With this in mind, Gabriel Zhekova felt much calmer.
Even if no one understands him, as a member of the Zhekova Family, can he just watch and do nothing while the family suffers?
These people don’t understand, and he feels wronged in his heart.
But taking into account that it’s for the Zhekova Family, this little sacrifice is nothing.
He is enduring this humiliation and hardship right now, and he will surely be understood in the future.
Gabriel Zhekova took another deep breath, then spoke to the Old Master again: “But Uncle, have you ever thought that now, Cindy Clarke and our family have this kind of relationship. Everyone knows that she is the wife of Gus Shen… she is the young Mrs. of our Zhekova family.”
“With such an identity going to participate in the competition, there will be no good results whether she wins or loses.” Gabriel Zhekova said, “If she loses, it is her lack of strength, and our family will also be embarrassed.”
“Uncle, you just said it, our family is in the food and beverage industry. Cindy Clarke is famous in culinary, which is also good for our family. It shows that our family is professional from top to bottom.”
“Even our newly-married daughters-in-law are skilled chefs, it strengthens people’s professional impression of our family. This point is very good.”
“But on the other hand, if Cindy Clarke performs poorly and loses the competition, people will think that our family is nothing special.” Gabriel Zhekova said in a deep voice, “The more solid our family’s professional image is in people’s hearts, the greater the negative impact Cindy Clarke will have on our family if she loses the competition.”
“This is a double-edged sword.” Gabriel Zhekova said, “We are now talking about the situation with Cindy Clarke’s subpar competition results, let us talk about the situation where Cindy Clarke performs well.”
“In my opinion, these good results must mean being the champion. Not having first place doesn’t count as good results because our Zhekova Family is the leader of the catering industry. If Cindy Clarke isn’t the best, how can she be worthy of a position in the leading catering industry?”
“This will make people think that not everyone in our Zhekova Family is this good, is this professional.”
“But if she does take first place, people will believe she did it by relying on the power of the Zhekova family. How much of that first place is justified?”
“After all, the Pingla Competition is organized by our Zhekova family, this can’t prove fair competition in the competition. It will also cast doubt on the fairness of the competition.”
“Even if Cindy Clarke reaches first place through her abilities, people will still doubt it.” Gabriel Zhekova felt a sense of accomplishment deep inside.
What he said, they have no way to refute, right?
Victoria Wheeler was unhappy to hear: “What do you mean ‘even if’? Cindy Clarke is competing on her own ability. Regardless of the rank she achieves, all results come from her abilities.”
“Her current top ten is achieved by her own abilities.” Victoria Wheeler said, “And also, I disagree with what you said, what does ‘a result is not good unless it’s first place’ mean?”
“Cindy Clarke made it into the top ten; that’s already a great achievement. This is the top ten selected from so many people nationwide.”
“What you say, not only denies Cindy Clarke’s abilities, but also negates the abilities of other contestants who achieved top ten results.”
“Only first place is a good result, and the second place isn’t, second and third place is nothing to you, isn’t that unfair to them?”
Gabriel Zhekova waved his hand impatiently, he never liked talking to Victoria Wheeler.
Because when this sister-in-law speaks, it is as if she is arguing for the sake of it, not discussing reasonably, reminiscent of a temper tantrum.
Since he couldn’t reason with Victoria Wheeler, he had nothing more to say.
Once Gabriel Zhekova was interrupted by Victoria Wheeler, his displeasure was evident on his face.
‘”I didn’t say that the second or third place isn’t a good result, but is their situation the same as Cindy Clarke’s?”
“Cindy is one of us Zhekovas and having become a Zhekova, she also has more responsibilities coupled with her privileges. Can she be compared to ordinary people?”
“Ordinary people only think about how to make their lives better, strive for a better life, but no matter how hard they try, they are still working for others.”
“Even if they’re not actively seeking rewards, as long as they can survive and keep going, even if they live their whole life in a daze, that’s still a life.”
“Ordinary people do not need to bear so much pressure and responsibility. Ordinary people can live like this, can Gus Shen?”
“Second and third place are good results for ordinary people, but for the people in our Zhekova family, they can be the same, can’t they?”
“To become a Zhekova, she has to bear many responsibilities and pressures, all of which Cindy Clarke has to bear.”
“She can’t enjoy being a Zhekova while bringing so much negative impact to the family, not solving them, leaving a mess for us to clean up.”
The Old Couple and Maverick, and Victoria Wheeler’s faces all became serious.
Look at what Gabriel Zhekova has all said.
Gabriel Zhekova’s meddling has gone really far.
Listen from Gabriel Zhekova: “Uncle, Aunt, you shouldn’t think that I’m meddling too much.”
Everyone: “…”
Heh, Gabriel Zhekova is clever in this regard.
Chapter 823: Chapter 823: You’re So Naive_1
“I too am part of the Zhekova Family, and right now, Cindy Clarke’s matter isn’t just involving your individual households anymore,” Gabriel Zhekova said, “but it affects the whole Zhekova Family.”
“So, it’s not about whether you are happy or concerned. This involves the entire Zhekova Family, and it’s not merely a matter of individual households anymore.”
“You also need to think about the entirety of the Zhekova Family. I’m not asking Cindy Clarke to stop appearing in public completely. After all, given many occasions, as Mrs. Adrian Zhekova, she needs to attend.”
“But knowingly going to a competition that will bring loss to the Zhekova Family, that’s not a good thing.”
Gabriel Zhekova directly said to Cindy Clarke: “So, Cindy Clarke, you should not continue with the competition, willingly withdraw. Just say that as you have married Adrian Zhekova, continuing the competition isn’t fair to the other contestants.”
“Even if the judges can be fair, the contestants will have worries and doubts in their hearts, and so will the audience. For the sake of the fairness of the major competition and the reputation of the Zhekova Family, you should voluntarily withdraw from the competition.”
“In this way, you could leave a good impression and win a good reputation for the Zhekova Family.”
“When you married into the Zhekova Family, you no longer just represent yourself, your actions are now linked to the entirety of the Zhekova Family,” Gabriel said.
“This is the price you pay for marrying Adrian. When you married an ordinary man, you didn’t need to worry about so many things, but when you married Adrian, that isn’t possible.”
“You can’t enjoy all this and not make any sacrifices,” said Gabriel sternly, “When you marry Adrian, you gain a lot, but you also have to make sacrifices. Only by giving can you receive.”
“You cannot put the elders and Adrian in difficult positions for your own personal preferences. Let the contestants suffer while you swallow all the benefits. That’s too selfish.”
“Compared to what you could gain from participating in the competition, the Zhekova Family has much more to sacrifice,” Gabriel said.
“Cindy Clarke, I hope you would seriously consider this,” Gabriel said, “Stop being so selfish.”
Adrian Zhekova’s face darkened, anger swelling in his heart.
Gabriel’s words sounded so noble and grandiose.
He said all the nice things, making it seem like if Cindy Clarke didn’t withdraw from the competition, it would be an unforgivable crime.
On the contrary, it made Gabriel look like he was the one thinking for the Zhekova Family.
The others, not just Cindy Clarke.
Him, Maverick Zhekova and Victoria Wheeler, and even their parents had all become selfish people.
Just when Adrian Zhekova was about to speak, his hand was grabbed by Cindy Clarke, stopping him.
Cindy Clarke thought that this was her own business, there was no reason for the elders to take on the brunt, or for Adrian to speak up for her.
Since this was her own matter, she should stand up for herself.
Having married into the Zhekova Family, she couldn’t always let Adrian and the elders stand in front of her for every issue.
If that were the case, other than increasing the burden on Adrian and the elders, how could she help everyone?
Adrian and the elders didn’t expect her to provide any particular benefit or aid to the Zhekova Family.
Even if she couldn’t help, shouldn’t she at least not cause any trouble, or require constant protection?
Having become family, there was no need to calculate losses and benefits from one another.
But similarly, Cindy Clarke felt that, since they were now family, they should support and help each other.
There shouldn’t be one side constantly protected while the other side is constantly contributing.
This kind of relationship is unequal and extremely selfish.
Even for parents towards their children, they protect and care for their children when they are young.
But when the parents become old, the roles reverse.
It becomes time for the children to protect and care for their parents.
It’s the same principle.
Cindy Clarke looked directly at Gabriel Zhekova, without any hint of backing down.
Gabriel’s eyebrows furrowed slightly.
In Gabriel’s view, even if he wasn’t in a core position within the Zhekova Family,
As a member of the Zhekova Family and having been in the business industry for many years,
The people he had associated with were all individuals with strong auras.
The aura he exuded and the pressure he applied were not something ordinary people could handle.
Even if Cindy Clarke married Adrian, so what?
Wasn’t she just from an ordinary family?
Before joining the Zhekova Family, she had never come into contact with a person with such a strong aura.
Even the people of the Zhekova Family, like the elder couple and Maverick and Victoria, were always kind and gentle when facing her.
Nobody used their aura to oppress her.
Therefore, Gabriel thought that Cindy Clarke would definitely not be able to withstand his pressure.
Beyond his expectation, Cindy Clarke was able to look him straight in the eye without shrinking back.
Gabriel’s eyebrows furrowed tightly.
Then he heard Cindy say, “I won’t drop out of the competition. I have a clear conscience, I will not rely on the power of the Zhekova Family to secure a championship for me in the major competition.”
“I will not use such unfair means to become a champion, and the five judges of the competition, they are all big names in the culinary industry, their character and abilities would not allow such a thing to happen.”
“And the other nine contestants, they each have their own pride and confidence, they also trust that I won’t use such means to clinch the championship, we are friends, even though we compete with each other, we also trust one another.”
“Hence, I will not withdraw from the competition,” Said Cindy Clarke firmly.
Gabriel sneered, he was actually quite happy that Adrian found such a naive wife.
If it were Jenny Kirk instead, she definitely wouldn’t think like this.
Gabriel said: “You’re really too naive. Do you think people care about whether you win the championship through legitimate means? Do they care about whether the judges’ decisions are fair?”
“As long as you are Adrian Zhekova’s wife, it’s possible that you could win through underhanded means, no matter how much you try to explain, those who refuse to believe will still not believe, they will not be swayed by your will.”
“As for the contestants, you’re even more naive,” Gabriel sneered contemptuously.
He looked down on Cindy Clarke, if it was noticeable, then that was fine.
What does Cindy Clarke have anyway, all she has now is fully dependent on the Zhekova Family.
If that’s the case, then don’t blame him for looking down on her.
“As for the contestants?” Gabriel sneered, “Who cares about whether they get along well with you? Are they close enough to you that they would stand up and speak up for you?”
Before Cindy Clarke could answer, Gabriel said: “Even if they could stand up and speak up for you, do you think the audience will believe it?”
“Forget about the audience, there will be large numbers of internet users who don’t watch the competition and merely come for the drama.”
“They don’t need to understand the whole story, as long as they get to see the drama, criticizing you with their keyboards is enough.”
“Those contestants who speak up for you will instead get involved. Many people will think that either they have received benefits from the Zhekova Family, or they fear the Zhekova Family, or are trying to please the Zhekova Family. Hence they would stand up and speak up for you.”
“At that time, not only will they not be able to help you, but they also risk their own reputation.”
Chapter 824: Chapter 824: It seems like Cindy Clarke is looking down on him_1
Mila Harrison gave Ethan Zhekova a look, signaling him to stop Gabriel Zhekova from speaking too much.
Mila was confused.
Why did Gabriel harass Cindy Clarke?
She knew Gabriel had always strived for the position of Family Head, but like Jayden Zhekova and the rest, she thought he was just stirring up trouble over nothing.
Whether it was Maverick Zhekova or Adrian Zhekova, both had run Pingla very well.
Even if Gabriel were to take over, there’s no guarantee that he could do any better.
It would be quite good if he could achieve the same results as them.
Although striving for the position of Family Head, if he succeeds and fails to outperform Adrian and Maverick, it would fail to prove his suitability for the position.
On the contrary, it would invite criticism.
Even if he does as well as Adrian and Maverick, it won’t earn him admiration or compliments.
Why does one engage in such thankless effort, especially when success is uncertain for Gabriel?
If it were a normal family, there would be a possibility of contention.
However, each of the Big Eight families decides their Family Head based on capability.
This has been set in stone and has remained unaltered for centuries.
Not to mention other families, just the centuries-old tradition of the Zhekova Family alone, why should it change for Gabriel?
Mila has never expected Gabriel to be the Family Head; indeed she admires Victoria Wheeler.
She admires Victoria’s good fortune, but her personal admiration for Victoria doesn’t extend to the position of Family Head.
Furthermore, if she wanted to be the Wife of Family Head, she should have married a Family Head herself.
If she couldn’t do so, it was due to her own incapability; she could not blame Gabriel for it.
It’s not like Gabriel has a surplus of Family Head positions to offer her one as the Wife of Family Head.
Everything Gabriel does is for himself. Although Mila thinks Gabriel is just stirring up trouble,
he is adamant about contending for the Family Head position. Gabriel wouldn’t heed her opinion.
Mila simply refrains from voicing her opinions on this matter. However, Mila feels that if Gabriel wishes to fight for the Family Head position, he should do so without giving Cindy a hard time.
Cindy has nothing to do with the contention for the Family Head position, nor can she influence anything.
This was their first meeting, and she barely knew Cindy.
Mila had no intention of defending Cindy, she just thought these were two unrelated matters.
Moreover, if things were as Gabriel suggested, and Cindy performed poorly leading to repercussions for the Zhekova Family, wouldn’t that play into Gabriel’s hands?
Poor performance from Cindy would reflect poorly on Adrian’s judgment.
Marrying such a wife, and the elder couple and Maverick Zhekova’s wife still protecting her, would amount to disregarding the interests of the Zhekova Family.
That would mean Maverick, as the Family Head, was not doing his job.
Letting the entire Zhekova Family suffer damage for Cindy.
At that time, whether Gabriel leverages the opportunity to build up his prestige and seize power or gradually disappoints others in Maverick, it’ll be beneficial for Gabriel.
What advantage does Gabriel gain by hastily making things difficult for Cindy now?
Ethan Zhekova frowned slightly. He didn’t want to openly oppose Gabriel at this moment in front of all these people.
However, if he only hinted, he feared Gabriel would pretend not to understand.
Ethan’s face was somber, and he was in a dilemma.
Just then, Cindy spoke, “Uncle Gabriel, you’re so afraid of the Zhekova Family being misunderstood.”
“If I get some achievements in the Cooking Competition, you’re afraid others will misunderstand that it’s because of the Zhekova Family. If my performance is not good, you’re afraid others will laugh and believe I bring a negative influence.”
Gabriel remained silent; wasn’t it obvious?
Why did Cindy repeat it again?
Then he saw Cindy smile, “Uncle Gabriel, where are you working now, and what is your position?”
Before Gabriel could answer, Adrian harmoniously replied, “He is the CEO of a subsidiary company under the Pingla Group, primarily responsible for the management of Pingla Group’s middle-end chain restaurants.”
Pingla Group has so many restaurant brands, accounting for 57% of the Hearth Nation’s catering market share.
There are so many catering brands, hence different subsidiary companies are responsible for different brands.
Brands like Quire, Eastco Resto and other Michelin-starred restaurants are managed by a single company.
High-end restaurants like Fuellero and Fresh Vegetarian fall under another company.
As for mid-range restaurants like Westington, which are the lowest in grade but have the most chain storefronts under the Pingla Group, they are under Gabriel’s charge.
Cindy nodded with understanding.
Gabriel wondered, what was Cindy understanding?
Why did it seem like she was looking down on him?
Gabriel was correct in his suspicion.
Cindy didn’t know if her assumptions were correct. She had never run a company, nor had she asked Adrian about the Pingla Group.
But she thought, if Gabriel were truly capable, would he be assigned to a subsidiary company?
There should be an important position for him at the group headquarters.
He is a senior member of the Zhekova Family; how could he be shabbily treated?
Even if he were assigned to a subsidiary company, his abilities would still be evaluated.
Whether he was suited for Michelin-starred restaurants like Quire and Eastco Resto,
or high-end restaurants like Fuellero and Fresh Vegetarian,
or mid-range chain restaurants like Westington.
Even if Cindy was unversed in business, she knew that Pingla’s main brands were Michelin-starred restaurants like Quire and Eastco Resto.
The quality of these was evidence enough because the brands were renowned.
These star-rated restaurants establish the branding and style of the entire Pingla Group.
Therefore, the subsidiary company responsible for Eastco Resto and Quire is superior to the company managing Fresh Vegetarian and Fuellero.
The one managing Fresh Vegetarian and Fuellero ranks higher than the company managing chain restaurants like Westington.
That Gabriel wasn’t placed in the first two companies and was only assigned to the subsidiary company managing mid-range chain restaurants hinted at his abilities.
Despite their reluctance to Gabriel, Adrian and the others were not biased in their decisions.
If Gabriel truly had abilities, Adrian would not suppress him strictly because of his personal dislikes.
It’s clear that Gabriel has mediocre abilities and coupled with the fact that he is unpopular among his nephews, he was sent to the subsidiary company managing the chain restaurants.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that the subsidiary company managing chain restaurants is insignificant, after all, Gabriel is still Adrian’s uncle.
Assigning him to an obscure position would not reflect well.
It seems Maverick must have taken great pains to decide on Gabriel’s position.
A man who is even disliked by his own brothers, mediocre in ability, harbors ill-intentions,…
Having Cindy respect this man might be a tall order.
Chapter 825: Chapter 825: Shrimp and Pig’s Heart_1
“Uncle Edward, Adrian Zhekova is the CEO of Pingla Group, and my dad is the chairman of Pingla Group,” Cindy Clarke chimed in, “The core positions of Vice President, Deputy General Manager and General Manager of Pingla Group are all held by capable people.”
“Third Uncle likes his freedom and prefers enjoying life rather than being bound by these matters,” Cindy continued, “That’s why he only serves as a director of the Pingla Group and doesn’t get involved in its daily affairs, which is understandable.”
“But Uncle Edward, you’re ambitious.”
When Cindy uttered the words “you’re ambitious,” Jayden Zhekova erupted into unseemly laughter.
Edward Dewer instinctively turned to look at Jayden Zhekova, catching sight of the slight twitch at the corner of his mouth as he struggled to suppress his laughter, but to no avail.
Edward Dewer was irate. After all, Jayden Zhekova had already laughed audibly, why bother suppressing it now?
It was as if Jayden was completely oblivious to his laughter.
As if unaware of Jayden Zhekova’s stifled laughter, Cindy continued, “But Uncle Edward, although you’re ambitious, you’ve ended up serving as the CEO of a subsidiary.”
“Neither my grandfather, my father, nor Adrian are in the business of suppressing capable individuals”
“To the best of my knowledge, the subsidiary responsible for the mid-tier restaurant chains doesn’t have particularly impressive financial reports. The profits are steady year on year, but there’s no growth.”
Was Cindy aware of this?
Of course she wasn’t; she was just pulling Edward’s leg.
After all, if Maverick Zhekova was willing to place Edward Dewer in a subsidiary of Pingla, it would imply Edward lacked genuine talent. How could he possibly drive the subsidiary’s financial growth year on year?
If he truly had the capability, he would already be in Pingla Group’s headquarters. Why would he still be in a subsidiary?
So Cindy hit the nail on the head, much to Edward Dewer’s surprise.
Did Adrian Zhekova tell her about it?! Edward Dewer cast a suspicious glance at Adrian.
“Uncle Edward, don’t take offense at my blunt words. Judging by your performance in managing the subsidiary, it’s clear that you don’t have the capacity to hold a core position at Pingla Group’s headquarters. It’s not my father or Adrian suppressing you; it’s just that you’re not capable enough.”
Edward Dewer’s face turned beet red.
Was he here to be humiliated today?
“Please don’t take offense, okay?” Cindy repeated.
Edward Dewer: “…”
She knew her words were unpleasant; couldn’t she have kept them to herself?
How dare she mock him constantly and yet continue to remark that he should not take offense? This was blatant hooliganism!
She dares to speak and yet expects him not to hold it against her?
“Just like the unpalatable things you just said to me—they were blunt, too,” Cindy said cheerfully.
You see, you were pretty rude yourself not too long ago. Don’t blame me if I’m being blunt now.
Edward Dewer was speechless.
“I realize that your intentions were good. You said those things because you care about the Zhekova Family and me. So, even though your words were harsh, I am not upset by them,” Cindy said, smiling.
Edward Dewer: “…”
“So, I won’t beat around the bush with you either,” Cindy said, still smiling, “With your performance in the subsidiary company, aren’t outsiders already saying that you’re disgracing the Zhekova Family?”
“You!” Edward Dewer was so infuriated that he almost rose from his seat.
But he wanted to maintain the dignity and composure of an elder, and he didn’t want to lose face.
So he held his anger in, even if it cost him internally.
Edward Dewer glared furiously at Cindy Clarke, as if his gaze alone could bore a hole right through her.
Edward Dewer had not expected Cindy Clarke to dare to address him so bluntly.
Cindy, who had only recently married into the Zhekova Family, was meeting him, an elder, for the first time. It never occurred to him she would be so audacious as to make direct jabs at him.
He had seriously underestimated her.
When she first arrived, she seemed frail and docile, and she remained silent when he spoke his piece.
He had assumed that she was meek.
Little did he know that Cindy Clarke was the epitome of a silently menacing entity.
Not just Edward Dewer, but Mila Harrison was stunned too. Really now?
Initially, she thought Edward Dewer had been a bit harsh on Cindy, never expecting Cindy to not only hold her ground but also fire back.
No matter what, Edward Dewer was an elder. Where had she ever seen a newly married daughter-in-law with such audacity?
She was utterly disrespectful towards an elder she was meeting for the first time.
Victoria Wheeler covered her face, as if trying to hide her laughter.
Just before Edward Dewer and his family arrived, Victoria Wheeler had told Cindy to give as good as she got if anyone tried to bully her.
Cindy was a daughter-in-law of the Zhekova Family and also the future wife of the Family Head.
She shouldn’t back down from anyone.
But Victoria Wheeler never expected Cindy to learn so quickly and to even apply the advice on Edward Dewer.
Of course, Victoria Wheeler didn’t blame Cindy; Edward Dewer was not exactly a saint either.
He deserved it.
Like Cindy said, what Edward Dewer had said to Cindy was rude, and Cindy was just giving him a taste of his own medicine.
But Cindy wasn’t finished yet.
Right when Edward Dewer was just about to explode, Cindy continued, “But I also understand your predicament, Uncle Edward. You’re probably worried that outsiders might attribute your success solely to the Zhekova Family and that without the backing of the Zhekova Family, you wouldn’t be able to achieve as much.”
“Striving to move forward doesn’t work and neither does backing off. So you’ve chosen to maintain the status quo, right? To keep the subsidiary company in a neither good nor bad state?” Cindy asked.
Edward Dewer was so furious that his entire body was trembling. Cindy was absolutely ruthless!
Forgetting all about his dignity and composure as an elder, Edward Dewer pointed at Cindy, turned to Maverick Zhekova, and fumed, “Are you just going to stand there and let her slander me, to utter such insolent words? Does she have any manners? Has she no respect left?”
“What?” Maverick seemed to be confused. He had been preoccupied and hadn’t heard what Cindy had said.
He looked innocent and puzzled as he feigned ignorance, “What did Cindy say just now?”
Edward Dewer: “…”
You hear how affectionately he calls her Cindy? He clearly doesn’t think she said anything wrong!
Edward Dewer sneered and his gaze swept over Victoria Wheeler. He didn’t ask Victoria anything; she was just too unpredictable and meddlesome.
Edward was not expecting Victoria Wheeler to cooperate with him, so he bypassed her and asked the Old Master, “Aren’t you going to intervene, Uncle?”
The Old Master blinked and dug at his ear, “What? What do you want me to do?”
“Dad, Edward wants you to intervene with Cindy,” Maverick helpfully explained on Edward’s behalf.
The Old Master seemed confused for a moment before asking, “Interfere with Cindy? What has Cindy done?”
“I have no idea, really,” Maverick said, a look of innocence on his face.
Chapter 826: Chapter 826: Apparently, He is Being Used as an Example_1
Didn’t he just not hear what Cindy Clarke said?
So now, he must not know what Gabriel Zhekova is asking the Old Master to manage about Clarke!
So the Old Master blinked, looking at Gabriel Zhekova with an innocent face.
His face read, “What exactly do you want me to manage?”
Gabriel Zhekova: “…”
Is this family redeemable at all?
I’ve always thought this family was shameless.
If they weren’t shameful, how could they continue to dominate the family without ever giving it up?
The Old Master took charge, then handed it over to Maverick Zhekova.
When Maverick Zhekova retires, he will pass it on to Adrian Zhekova.
The others have no say in it.
Isn’t this shameless?
Gabriel Zhekova didn’t expect that the Old Master’s family, having added a new daughter-in-law, would be even more shameless than before.
Of course, this shameless person now also includes Cindy Clarke.
Clarke even had the guts to provoke him!
The Old Master and Maverick Zhekova clearly had a don’t-care attitude.
Gabriel Zhekova then turned to the Old Madam, “Auntie, I won’t beat about the bush, Cindy has just married into our family and is a younger generation. Is this how she talks to her elders?”
“Does she have any respect for me, her elder!” Gabriel Zhekova said angrily.
The Old Madam laughed, showing no signs of anger.
But her words infuriated Gabriel Zhekova, “Gabriel, I think that Cindy has a point.”
“Look, you’ve been in charge of such a big business for so many years as Adrian’s second uncle, but you haven’t achieved anything significant,” the Old Madam said.
“Before you took over, the company’s profits were just as they are now. Even though your company is only in charge of the mid-range chain restaurants, the market share of mid-range restaurants is the highest, and the profits are also the most considerable.”
“The rich are, after all, a minority, and the reception capacity of star-rated restaurants are also limited. Their annual profits have a cap, unlike your mid-range restaurants, which have a high market share, affordable prices, and a large customer volume. Thus, it is a very crucial part of the Zhekova Family.”
“The Zhekova Family entrusted you with such an important segment and yet you have failed to increase profits. It is still the same as it was before you took over, even after all these years. If people outside don’t accuse you of losing face for the Zhekova Family, why would they accuse Cindy?”
“After all, with the example of you, her second uncle, set in front of her, our Cindy naturally doesn’t need to worry, right?” The Old Madam said with a smile.
Gabriel Zhekova’s face was not just red any longer, it had turned purple.
It turned out that the Old Madam was using him as an example to say that since he was incompetent, he had no right or qualification to manage Clarke’s affairs.
But where was he incompetent?
He managed such a large company very well.
Why was he being compared to Cindy Clarke?
If you’re so capable, let Clarke try managing the company!
“Don’t be upset, what your aunt said is also something I’ve been meaning to say.” At this point, the Old Master spoke again, “Before you, your company was headed by Lyke Zhekova.”
Cindy Clarke then looked at Adrian Zhekova, her eyes full of questions.
Adrian Zhekova didn’t need Clarke to ask to know what she was wondering about.
Adrian Zhekova quietly explained to Clarke, “Grandfather is talking about my fourth uncle, Lyke Zhekova. Like my second and third uncles, he also comes from the ‘de’ generation.”
“The Zhekova family is large, and I, my father, my second and third uncles, my fourth uncle, etc., all belong to the ‘de’ generation. Even if they are not from the Zhekova family’s direct line, they still follow the names in the family tree. My second and third uncles are part of the eldest granduncle’s family. My fourth uncle’s relation is a bit more distant, his father is our grandfather’s cousin.”
Clarke nodded, understanding that the fourth uncle’s father and the Old Master are not of the same generation, the relationship is even more distant.
So, in this generation, the distance is not that close anymore.
Adrian Zhekova continued to say, “My fourth uncle’s father is still alive, but since he’s older and not as hale as the Old Master, his mobility has decreased. Every New Year, fourth uncle’s family spends it with him. We usually visit them on the sixth day of New Year. Tomorrow, I can take you to meet them.”
On the first day of the New Year, it’s a busy time for everyone, and they wouldn’t be able to stay for long even if they did go.
After all, it’s family, and they can’t just drop by for a few minutes like a typical New Year’s visit.
So they wait until there’s more free time and then go to spend some quality time together.
Even though Lyke’s family might not be as closely related as Gabriel Zhekova and Jayden Zhekova, they’re still members of the Zhekova family.
Currently, Lyke Zhekova also holds a position in Pingla, so the communication between them hasn’t ceased.
However, the Zhekova family is large, and not everyone can serve in Pingla.
Only a few capable members hold positions in Pingla.
The rest mainly rely on the support of the family to start their own businesses outside.
Whether it goes well or not, the family doesn’t interfere as it becomes the affairs of their own smaller families.
As for Gabriel Zhekova, it isn’t that he’s entirely incapable.
After all, he’s still managing a company, isn’t he?
It’s just that Gabriel’s capability isn’t particularly outstanding.
The reason he got to take over a subsidiary was actually due to Gabriel’s father and the fact that Gabriel is currently somewhat closely related to the Old Master’s family.
Otherwise, he might not have gotten the chance to manage this subsidiary.
Once Cindy Clarke understood the relationships, she heard the Old Master say, “You can’t blame this on the mess that Lyke left you. When Lyke was running this company, the annual financial reports were excellent.”
“Profits were growing year by year. If you look at the most intuitive charts, you can tell that they have been consistently climbing.”
“Until you took over, it became flat. Furthermore, you took over another company afterward. That subsidiary, like yours, is also in charge of mid-range restaurants.”
The Zhekova family’s mid-range restaurants have many brands, and they didn’t consolidate all of their mid-range restaurant brands under a single subsidiary for management.
After all, there are too many businesses to put all under one company’s management. It would be overly excessive.
Moreover, if the person in charge had Gabriel’s level of ability, could the Zhekova family still make a profit?
Although Gabriel is still managing this subsidiary for now, if the business performance continues to decline, he won’t be able to continue for long.
“Since Lyke took over that company, the company’s annual profits have grown even more than before, and the reputation of the restaurant brands under it, whether it’s word-of-mouth or fame, are greater than before.”
The Old Master turned to Gabriel, “What I want to say is this is not about the company or the restaurant, it’s about the manager. Whether it’s your company or the one Lyke is managing now, when they were in Lyke’s hands, there were no problems. But when they’re in your hands, all you can do is reap the harvest but not lead the company forward.”
Chapter 827: Chapter 827: Dirty Deeds_1
“We know that. Don’t outsiders know it too? Other than those who don’t care, anyone with intentions would know.”
“Moreover, the financial statements of all the major corporations aren’t a secret. So, don’t assume that they don’t know what you’re capable of. If they haven’t made fun of you, why would they mock Cindy?”
“Even if they make fun of you, would anyone dare to say it out loud? It’s only because you are a Zhekova that you have the backup of the Zhekova Family.”
“If they dare not provoke you, dare not laugh at you, how could they possibly dare to look down on Cindy, the Wife of the next Family Head?”
“You say this will disgrace the Zhekova Family, but I don’t see it that way.”
“If it’s about losing face, you’ve already lost all there was to lose. It wouldn’t be Cindy’s turn to further disgrace our family.”
“And besides, it further proves the Zhekova Family’s strength when the others are too afraid to mock you. How could that be disgraceful? It’s a time for face-saving, isn’t it?”
The Old Master looked at Gabriel Zhekova amusedly, “Or do you think you’ve disgraced the Zhekova Family?”
Gabriel wouldn’t admit that he had disgraced the Zhekova Family as he still dreamt of becoming the Family Head!
But the moment he refused to admit it, he wouldn’t be able to accuse Cindy Clarke.
Gabriel stood up abruptly, “Did I come here to be insulted today?”
The Old Master seemed to look down on him with every single word.
He accused him of inadequacy, that he was not even comparable to Lyke Zhekova.
“Enough with defending Cindy Clarke, why belittle me?” Gabriel exclaimed angrily.
Just then, Maverick Zhekova, always gentle and refined, and never seen losing his temper since Cindy arrived at the family mansion, spoke softly.
The words that followed, though, were not so gentle.
“Cindy is part of our family, if we don’t protect her, who will?” Maverick chimed in coldly.
“The moment you came in today, you started pointing fingers at Cindy, asking her to withdraw from the competition, looking down on her from all angles.” Maverick said, “If you belittle her, aren’t we allowed to belittle you in return? If you hadn’t belittled her, why would we belittle you?”
Gabriel Zhekova was fuming, “I’m her elder, can’t I say a few words?”
Maverick Zhekova responded with a soft but sly smile, “Surely, my parents are also your elders. They voiced their opinions about you, and you don’t seem to take it well?”
“In this family, my parents are your elders, and I am your boss, we all have the right to voice our opinions about you.” Maverick continued with a grin.
“Gabriel, we might be blunt in our words, and some truths might be hard to digest but we meant no harm.” Maverick continued with false sympathy. “We’re all family here, looking out not just for you, but for the Zhekova Family as a whole.”
“Just as Mom said earlier, we want you to work harder to prevent the Zhekova Family from further losses.”
Maverick’s attitude left Gabriel fuming.
Wasn’t this exactly what he had said to Cindy earlier?
Maverick had just thrown his own words back at him.
Gabriel gritted his teeth in anger, recalling Maverick’s usual gentle demeanor. He always seemed so temperamental.
But now, he was all-out cruel and ruthless!
Maverick was just like Cindy – silent but deadly when provoked.
The Old Master, still looking stern, said to Gabriel, “Enough, sit down now! This is our Family Feast, are you here to cause a scene?”
Gabriel was unhappy but had no choice but to sit down. He then firmly said to the Old Master, “Uncle, I didn’t come here to cause a scene.”
Gabriel thought for a moment, then said, “You all are my elders, including my elder brother, whom I address with respect as such. I won’t argue no matter what you accuse me of.”
Maverick raised his eyebrows, watching as Gabriel started to adopt a defensive strategy in front of him. Was he starting to get smarter?
Right now, Maverick held the Family Head position, and the entire family knew Gabriel wanted to vie for it.
But Maverick had never worried before, because he knew Gabriel didn’t have the skills to match his ambitions.
A classic example of reaching for the stars but having no ability to support his aspirations.
Did his eldest uncle know that Gabriel was incompetent?
Perhaps he did.
Of his two sons, Gabriel and Jayden, Gabriel was the only one willing to listen to him.
His oldest uncle could never rely on Jayden.
If it had been Jayden instead of Gabriel, his abilities would have surely been far superior.
But the eldest uncle couldn’t rely on him, right?
So there was this Gabriel who was ambitious and inadequate. If he wanted to run for office….
What did Maverick have to worry about?
So Maverick was just sitting back, looking relaxed as if watching a show.
Then he heard Gabriel say, “But Cindy is not my elder, right? What attitude is she showing me?”
The Old Master didn’t hold back, “You should look at the attitude you had when you first walked into the door!”
“It is because you meddled in her affairs that she spoke this way to you. And which of her words were not accurate?”
“Our words are realities. Weren’t Cindy’s too? If you’re not happy about what she said, why not be competent enough that no one can criticize you.
“Uncle,” Gabriel raised his voice, “Are you bullying me as if I’m some outsider?”
The Old Master also raised his voice, “Who’s the one yelling? You’re arguing with me now!”
“You’re bullying Cindy because you’re older and her elder. Now you’re complaining about being bullied by me?” The Old Master was furious. “If you want respect and courtesy, you need to give respect and courtesy first!”
“Cindy is my granddaughter-in-law. You walk in the door and start criticizing her, making decisions for her, do you even regard us? Her parents-in-law are right here, we, her grandparents-in-law are here too. We, her most direct relatives, do not even express dissatisfaction, yet you do. What right do you have to feel dissatisfied?”
“Why don’t I have the right!” Gabriel protested angrily, “I am her uncle too.”
Gabriel couldn’t quite understand how the elders and Maverick and his wife were still defending Cindy.
Cindy, a young girl who was alone in the Zhekova Family without any background, her tactics were not small at all.
“And I’m doing all this for the Zhekova Family!” Gabriel added.
“If you want to exert control and replace us in the family mansion, then first, become the Family Head!” The Old Master slapped the couch, “You haven’t even sorted out a single subsidiary company, yet you still think you are doing this for the Zhekova Family?”
Gabriel thought to himself, who knows what tricks Lyke Zhekova has up his sleeve.
With the company’s profits being so high, Lyke’s company had better watch out if there’s an investigation.
Chapter 828: Chapter 828: Even Cindy Clarke is not worthy to be compared with him!_1
Who knew how many uninvestigated matters there were within.
Once discovered, the company could plummet, and it might even drag the Zhekova Family down with it.
Despite everything, Gabriel Zhekova did not believe Lyke Zhekova could surpass him in any significant way.
The company he now ran, Lyke Zhekova had initially delivered increase in profits year after year.
When Gabriel took over, the earnings had remained steady each year, but had not seen a significant increase.
However, this means, when Lyke initially took over the company, it was in a period of growth.
But now, the market was saturated and it had passed the growth phase.
Unable to climb any further, was that really his fault?
Observing the change in Gabriel Zhekova’s expression, the Old Master coldly stated, “As Cindy’s closest relatives, we haven’t made decisions for her. What gives you the right to make decisions for her?”
“If you really want Cindy to withdraw from the competition—”
Gabriel Zhekova looked at the Old Master suspiciously. If the Old Master was saying this, there must be conditions attached.
Sure enough, he heard the Old Master say, “Then, you should resign as CEO of the subsidiary company. If you leave the company, Cindy will withdraw from the competition. How about that?”
At this, Gabriel Zhekova laughed.
The Old Master intended to seize this opportunity to entirely remove his influence from the Zhekova family. He wanted to strip him of his power for competing for the Family Head position.
Taking this opportunity to weaken his power.
The Old Master was rather cunning.
Sacrificing Cindy Clarke, a minor figure, to achieve his goal of eliminating Gabriel’s power.
Did he really think Cindy Clarke was on par with him?
He wasn’t going to fall for this trap and agree to the Old Master’s proposal.
The Old Master grinned, as if his prediction had come true, and said, “What is it? Not willing?”
“If you’re not willing, then stay out of Cindy’s matters. Cindy is our child. Whatever the issue, it will be dealt with by us.” said the Old Master.
Not mentioning his daughter-in-law, or Mila Harrison, Cindy was now their child.
Just like one of their own.
Regular daughters-in-law and Mila Harrison held different significance.
“She participated in the competition with our family’s agreement and support. If there’s any negative impact, we’ll bear it. You don’t need to worry about it.” said the Old Master.
After saying those harsh words, the Old Madam stepped in to play the good cop, “Alright, it’s rare for us to have a family feast, we should all enjoy it.”
“Normally, you young people are under a lot of pressure out there working. I understand.” said the Old Madam, “But this is not work time, you don’t have to remain so tense.”
“Everyone should relax, let’s not discuss work during our family feast. Let’s focus on entertainment, lighten up the atmosphere.” The Old Madam smiled, “No matter how much you want to progress, you still need to give yourself time to breathe, don’t you think?”
The Old Madam successfully ended the conversation by changing the subject.
Rightfully speaking, Gabriel Zhekova, being reprimanded by the whole family in front of the younger generation, had lost face.
Under normal circumstances, he would have left the room in anger long ago.
But, Gabriel Zhekova didn’t, for fear that once he left, he could not be a part of this family again.
The Old Madam’s words managed to provide Gabriel Zhekova a way out of the situation.
Taking advantage of the situation, Mila Harrison laughed and said, “Oh my, I forgot to give Morgan his first greeting gift when I came in!”
As she spoke, Mila took out a red packet from her bag for the little boy.
She then said, “Originally, I thought about buying a toy for Morgan but I wasn’t sure what type of toys he would like. If I bought one, and he didn’t like it, it would ruin the intention of the gift.”
“So, I decided to resort to the most traditional way. It’s also near Chinese New Year and I haven’t given Morgan his red packet yet, so I’ve packed one and consider it as the new year red packet. I hope Morgan won’t mind.” Mila laughed.
Cindy Clarke: “…”.
Finally, she understood why Adrian Zhekova looked at a loss for words, unsure of how to accurately describe this person whenever he mentioned Mila.
Normally giving red packets for New Year was something that brought joy to children.
And since it was their first meeting and it was near the New Year as well, giving a red packet seemed appropriate.
Nobody would think that her gift lacks thought. Even Aria Evans, who just arrived, also directly gave Morgan a red packet, letting Morgan buy things that he wanted to.
The two elderlies, Adrian Zhekova and Cindy Clarke, didn’t see anything wrong with it.
But Mila went out of her way to ask Morgan not to mind. How was Morgan supposed to respond to that?
If one didn’t know Mila, they might find her words somewhat sarcastic.
Luckily, Cindy had asked Adrian Zhekova about Mila previously. So Cindy had general understanding of her.
Even though this was their first meeting and she didn’t know Mila well, Cindy didn’t take her words to heart. She only had a more specific understanding of Mila’s character.
Since the little one couldn’t answer, naturally, it was Cindy’s turn to interject.
Besides, it wasn’t like the comment was really directed at the little boy.
Lately, the young one hadn’t accepted the red packet. She simply turned to Cindy, seeking her opinion.
Even if Mila’s words weren’t very nice, she still had to accept the red packet.
Cindy nodded her head, to which the little one picked up the red packet, politely saying, “Thank you, Grandmother.”
Then, he returned to sit by Samson Zhekova’s side.
Ever since Samson Zhekova arrived, he had been talking to the little boy.
Even when Gabriel Zhekova’s family entered, the boy had been sitting beside Samson Zhekova all the while.
So, he returned to his side.
He didn’t give Gabriel Zhekova or Ethan Zhekova a glance.
Clearly, the little one heard everything that Gabriel Zhekova said earlier.
The little boy wasn’t stupid. As soon as he heard Gabriel Zhekova’s resentment toward Cindy Clarke, why would he still watch Gabriel Zhekova?
As for Ethan Zhekova who observed coldly from the side without uttering a word to discourage it, he was not a good person either.
The little boy has his own way of judging people.
Even if Ethan Zhekova felt it wasn’t convenient to speak up earlier and decided to remain silent, it wasn’t an excuse.
Gabriel Zhekova was his father, so he couldn’t possibly speak against him.
But this wasn’t the reason why the boy didn’t like Ethan Zhekova.
Think about Samson Zhekova. After entering and greeting the elderlies, he spent his time conversing and playing with the young boy, gaining a decent understanding of him.
It wasn’t like the boy was possessive, wanting to monopolize Samson Zhekova’s attention and not allowing him to do anything else.
Even if Samson Zhekova was not chatting with him the entire time, the boy still liked him.
Because Samson was considerate toward him. He had shown an intention of getting to know him. Even if he talked only for a bit, the young boy would think highly of him.
However, since Ethan Zhekova came in, he hadn’t bothered with the little one at all, clearly showing he didn’t care about him.
He may not even consider him as family.
Chapter 829: Chapter 829: Driven to Death by this Stupid Son_1
“How was the little one supposed to have a good impression of them?
The youngster wasn’t much exposed to people around him. Even though he was smart, he didn’t have much experience in conversing and understanding the underlying implications in their words.
He needed to have experience, after learning certain social subtleties, in order to grasp the nuances hidden within their words.
Regarding Mila Harrison’s words, the little one instinctively felt that they were not spoken in goodwill.
Yet, he didn’t have the experience to respond to such words, so he simply obediently sat beside Samson Zhekova.
Samson Zhekova had just been listening to Gabriel Zhekova speaking, and since he wasn’t qualified to interject, he got a bit bored. So he peeled a lot of melon seeds for the little one to pass the time.
Now, he has peeled enough to fill a small plate.
Samson Zhekova felt sorry for the little one, who was experiencing such negativity on their first meeting.
Also, he didn’t know how to respond to Mila Harrison’s remarks.
How was such a young child, not even five years old yet, supposed to deal with this kind of difficulty?
Samson Zhekova handed the plate full of peeled melon seeds to little Morgan Zhekova. “Here, your third uncle peeled these for you.”
The little one was extremely delighted, feeling a strong sense of kindness from this gesture.
He blushed and said to Samson Zhekova, “Thank you, third uncle, you’re really nice!”
Samson Zhekova broke into a grin and whispered, “So does that make me the best in the world to you?”
The little one glanced around.
All the attention of his great grandfather, great grandmother, grandfather, grandmother, and his father was focused on Gabriel Zhekova and Mila Harrison.
So, they probably hadn’t noticed him.
Little Morgan then nodded and said, “Third uncle, you are the best to me in the world.”
After a pause, the little one whispered to Samson Zhekova, “Third Uncle, I think the two of us…are…what was that…?”
No matter how smart Samson Zhekova was, he couldn’t make out what the little one was trying to say from his ambiguous words.
“It’s an idiom.” The little one held up four fingers, “four words.”
Samson Zhekova: “…”
Was his nephew playing a guessing game with him?
“It was something like…like…” The little guy racked his brains and exclaimed, “It means we met too late!”
“Fate has made us meet too late?” Samson Zhekova asked.
“Yes, yes, yes!” The little one quickly nodded his head, “Yes, that’s it, Fate has made us meet too late.”
Samson Zhekova, as if having found a kindred spirit, patted the little one’s shoulder, “I felt the exact same way the moment I met you. I immediately liked you!”
Aria Evans: “…”
Aria Evans felt a twitch at the corner of her mouth as she was nearly irritated to death by her son’s naive behavior.
What can be done about this?
Her husband was now set on being truly innocent and naive, although he was a genuine wolf in sheep’s clothing.
But their son was truly naive and innocent.
In this state, how can he find a girlfriend?
How could someone be so pure and naive to become friends with a five-year-old child?
Cindy Clarke watched the interaction between Samson Zhekova and the little one and also gave a smile.
She then said to Mila Harrison, “Aunt Mila, you’re really too kind. The thought and effort you put into the gift for Morgan, how can it be criticized?”
Mila Harrison smiled, thinking that Adrian Zhekova’s wife was not a pushover at all.
This was evident from Cindy Clarke’s response to Gabriel Zhekova’s words.
Initially, after hearing Gabriel Zhekova’s words, she thought Cindy Clarke would have been cornered by his narrative.
It would have been hard to shake it off.
After all, when a person is pushed to a certain extent, it is hard to maintain a sensible and positive mindset to counter such attacks.
But interestingly, Cindy Clarke was able to utter such convincing words in such a short span of time, making Gabriel Zhekova, who was supposed to have the upper hand, fall to the defensive side.
It was because of Cindy Clarke’s words that the elders and Maverick Zhekova began voicing their criticisms.
Otherwise, it would have been rather difficult for the criticisms from the elders and Maverick Zhekova to be made.
But she had merely been a spectator at the time and didn’t become too involved, so she hadn’t felt the full force of facing Cindy Clarke’s capabilities.
But now, having heard Cindy Clarke’s reply to her, Mila Harrison had truly felt it.
Luckily, it was just one sentence. If Cindy Clarke had spoken even more, perhaps she would have appeared foolish.
Mila Harrison’s smile faded slightly but she then realized that it was not surprising at all.
Cindy Clarke, coming from an ordinary background, so unassuming that she might be compared to Cinderella herself.
Yet, she was able to marry into the wealthy Zhekova family, into a union with Adrian Zhekova.
This wouldn’t have been possible if she was simple-minded.
Never underestimate Cindy Clarke.
To think people like them, having grown up in the family business where calculating and scheming was a norm, had grown accustomed to it.
And yet, Cindy Clarke, a common folk would hardly have any such exposure to it.
Even the fact that she was so young, being barely 25 years old and hadn’t even celebrated her birthday.
She was cunning and shrewd, as much as any old fox around here.
Right at that moment, Aunt Evans came out wearing an apron and told everyone that lunch was ready.
Everyone then proceeded to the dining room.
After everyone was seated, Aria Evans initially wanted to ask when the Cooking Competition would take place next.
She and Jayden Zhekova planned to provide support on-site, but Gabriel Zhekova had mentioned earlier about Cindy Clarke withdrawing from the competition.
The topic of the Cooking Competition wasn’t a pleasant one, so Aria Evans decided to let the matter rest for the time being.
“Ethan, how have you been recently?” asked the Old Madam to Ethan Zhekova.
Ethan Zhekova was also working at Gabriel Zhekova’s company, serving as the deputy CEO.
But Gabriel Zhekova had a habit of being somewhat obstinate and hard-headed.
Even if Ethan Zhekova expressed any suggestions, Gabriel Zhekova wouldn’t listen as long as they contradicted his own decisions or thoughts.
Otherwise, Ethan Zhekova firmly believed that the company wouldn’t be performing so poorly.
The company’s performance wouldn’t have left a loophole for the old folks and Maverick Zhekova to pick on.
At this moment, Ethan Zhekova gave a light smile and said, “Not bad, everything is going somewhat smoothly.”
“I’ve been promoted at the company,” said Ethan Zhekova. “I’ve noticed the issues with the company’s performance that Uncle just mentioned.”
“So, I’ve been studying and trying to come up with some plans,” said Ethan Zhekova.
Ethan Zhekova thought to himself, he hadn’t been at the company for many years anyway.
When he first joined, he was concerned about people possibly not respecting him.
So, he started from the position of a department manager.
Over these years, through his credentials and by virtue of being a member of the Zhekova family,
He slowly climbed from a department manager to a deputy general manager, then to general manager,
Only this year, had he been promoted to the position of vice-president.
In his previous lower positions, he didn’t have much say in the company’s decisions, despite being a Zhekova.
Even though he had just been promoted to vice-president recently, Gabriel was still ruling over him.
His situation hadn’t improved much.
By saying what he said now, Ethan wasn’t worried about the old folks thinking he was incompetent.”
Chapter 830: Chapter 830: No Need for Him to Take the Blame_1
Anyway, he didn’t have much decision-making power before.
He doesn’t need to take the blame for the company’s mediocre performance.
He just made it clear that he’s working on a plan already.
Showing that he is dedicated to the company’s success.
This way, the responsibility for the company’s performance wouldn’t fall on his shoulders.
Ethan Zhekova earnestly said: “After completing my plan, I’ll submit it to the company for discussion.”
The Old Madam didn’t care much about how Ethan Zhekova performs in his work.
She waved her hand and said, “Let’s not talk about business at the Family Feast.”
“You too, shouldn’t push yourself too hard. Work hard while working. But outside of work, stop discussing work-related matters.”
Ethan Zhekova was choked by her words.
He initially wanted to leave a good impression on the elders and Maverick Zhekova.
To show his dedication towards his work.
Ethan Zhekova wasn’t satisfied with being just a vice president in one of the subsidiary companies.
As long as Gabriel Zhekova remained, he would never be promoted and never truly hold power.
Gabriel Zhekova was different from Maverick Zhekova.
Granted Maverick Zhekova is currently the chairman.
Though his position seems higher than Adrian Zhekova and he seemingly holds sway over him.
In reality, Maverick Zhekova, as the chairman, had basically relinquished his duties.
When he handed over the CEO position to Adrian Zhekova, Maverick essentially handed over all his power to Adrian.
The decision-making power in the company is in Adrian Zhekova’s hands.
Even with Maverick Zhekova still as the chairman, there’s no impact at all.
Unlike Gabriel Zhekova, as long as he remains CEO, there isn’t much for Ethan Zhekova to do.
Moreover, the space to perform within a subsidiary company is too small.
Ethan Zhekova wanted to enter the headquarters.
Gabriel Zhekova blabbers about seizing the position of Family Head from Maverick Zhekova.
But he hasn’t even entered the headquarters, how could he seize it?
Therefore, Ethan Zhekova wanted to leave a good impression on the elders.
To show Adrian Zhekova that he too, is capable.
Who knew, the Old Madam would abruptly end this line of talk with a sentence.
“It’s important to balance work and leisure.” The Old Madam continued, “Don’t always think about work, you’re still young, it’s not good to work yourself to the bone.”
“During your time off, think about your personal life more.” The Old Madam added.
“By the way, do you have a girlfriend now?” the Old Madam asked.
“Not yet,” Ethan Zhekova replied.
“Why not?” The Old Madam seemed anxious, “You’re not young anymore, you’re only a few months younger than Adrian.”
In front of Gabriel Zhekova’s family, The Old Madam would not affectionately refer to Adrian Zhekova as “Adrian.”
“I will not talk about Adrian, who already has a grown child.” The Old Madam said, “His circumstances are special, but at least, you should start considering marriage.”
Mila Harrison chimed in with a laugh: “I often say the same thing, constantly urging him. But this kid, he’s completely absorbed in his work.”
“I was thinking, he’s still young. For younger people, it’s not bad to strive more while they’re still young.” Mila Harrison said with a smile.
Her son’s ambition, such a wonderful thing.
Who would’ve thought, the Old Madam completely disagreed with a stern face: “Even then, one cannot just focus on work. Work is endless.”
“Look at Zander Hamilton from the Hamilton Family, he was single-minded at work, there’s no second one like him in The Big Eight families.” the Old Madam said.
Even if Ethan Zhekova loved working and fighting, could he fight as hard as Zander Hamilton?
That lad was so workaholic at one point, he practically wished to devote all 24 hours a day to work.
He could effectively utilize 20 hours of the 24 hours in a day, without wasting any time.
Ethan Zhekova wanted to showcase his love for work, but there’s still a Zander Hamilton as a benchmark.
Ethan Zhekova really found the wrong angle to pitch.
“But once he fell in love, he learned to balance work and leisure too, he is not that workaholic anymore.” The Old Madam said, “Now he has his Charming Little Wife, and a cute son, how complete.”
“These are things you cannot exchange for work.” The Old Madam said to Mila Harrison, “Haven’t you found potential matches for him?”
Mila Harrison had to reply, “I’m also looking, if there’s a suitable girl, I’ll introduce her.”