Ch. 961..970
Chapter 961: You’re Such a Superficial Person_1 What?
Does Wallace Martin also think he’s getting old?
Therefore, the resentful Lyke Zhekova, there and then, dumped a ton of work on Martin.
So much that he almost had to sleep in the office.
And to this day, Martin still had no idea that the reason Zhekova piled on the work was because he had eavesdropped on Martin’s phone conversation with Mrs.
Martin.
Martin till today still believes that it was indeed a very busy period full of work back then.
...
“The matter also depends on both parties’ feelings and destiny.
What if I happened to like Miss Lewis?
With your permission, wouldn’t I go after her without any worries?” said Martin.
“Firstly, although I don’t know much about Miss Lewis or am familiar with her, her outstanding ability is enough for my admiration.
Besides, her good looks!” he said sheepishly with a chuckle.
He twisted his waist, assuming a coy pose, and said: “She’s truly my type.”
Lyke Zhekova: “….”
“Alright, stop twisting.
It makes me feel sick.” Zhekova retorted.
“I didn’t expect you to be so shallow, only caring about looks,” Zhekova said, rather dismissively.
“Yes, I am indeed quite shallow,” admitted Martin unabashedly.
But in his mind, he said, ‘You are no different from me!’
Don’t you also find young girls attractive?
Of course, even if he had the guts, Martin wouldn’t dare to utter these words today.
He felt that he had enough of poking the tiger today.
It was best not to provoke any further.
Lyke Zhekova: “….”
“CEO, what’s your opinion?” Martin asked expectantly, his eyes fixated on Zhekova.
“I think you need to head to the office!” Zhekova was so annoyed he almost hurled something at Martin.
Zhekova had no idea that, at this moment, his thoughts aligned miraculously with Mrs.
Martin.
He uttered the exact same words that Mrs.
Martin had said before.
Martin too felt a sense of familiarity; as if he had heard this phrase before.
“CEO?” Martin continued to ask glumly.
Zhekova took a deep breath and said, “Just give up any ideas of pursuing Peggy Lewis.”
On hearing this, the gossipmonger in Martin was immediately set ablaze.
“CEO!” exclaimed Martin, his voice filled with excitement.
If the CEO, once an invincible bachelor, was finally ready to shed his single status, it would indeed be a joyous occasion.
Moreover, he must relay this news to CEO’s father, to share the good news with Third Old Master Zhekova.
Martin was uncertain if the CEO would become gentler at work once he was no longer single.
But he did know for sure that Third Old Master Zhekova would certainly be elated, and would likely reward him handsomely!
Considering the close relationship between the Zhekova Family Matriarch and the CEO’s family, it was also possible that the Old Madam might reward him.
Martin was already rubbing his hands in anticipation.
At this moment, Zhekova had calmed down and said in a firm voice, “This matter, even if I agreed, wouldn’t make a difference.”
“Why?” persisted Martin.
“Don’t you know?
Peggy Lewis is a good friend of Cindy Clarke, very good friends.
So good that their relationship is closer than even real sisters,” replied Zhekova smugly.
Martin: “…..”
If you dared to make a move on Peggy Lewis, even Cindy Clarke wouldn’t let you go unpunished,” said Zhekova.
“Cindy Clarke takes her friendship with Lewis very seriously and absolutely won’t allow any harm to come to her.”
“So, give up on her,” said Zhekova.
He secretly praised his own cleverness in his heart.
In such a crucial moment, he had thought up this brilliant excuse.
“Lyke Zhekova, you certainly know tricks!”
“Thumb up!”
“I…
I am not one of those scumbag men!
Why assume I would harm Miss Lewis?
If we truly got together, I’d be sure to treat Miss Lewis exceptionally well!” said Martin, wronged.
“If I am dating now, it would definitely be with the intention of marriage,” Martin pledged eagerly.
“After all, I am not very young anymore.”
“….” Zhekova, now at the limit of his patience, flung a file in front of Martin and snapped, “Go finish your work at once!
Stop wasting time here!”
Seeing Zhekova on the verge of exploding, Martin grabbed the file and made haste to the door.
“Wait,” Zhekova called after him.
“CEO?” Martin stood at the door, turning around to look at him.
“Don’t get any ideas about Peggy Lewis, understood?”, Zhekova warned again, clearly anxious.
“Understood,” Martin assured, “I will leave and do my work now, CEO!”
Then, Martin hastily left, remembering to close the door behind him.
As soon as he left, Zhekova slumped back in his chair, rubbing his eyes, exhaustion written all over his face.
Others’ assistants might give them respite from worries.
But why is his own assistant so troublesome?
Wait a minute!
Zhekova pondered over what Martin had just said.
Martin had said that he was not young anymore.
What does he mean?
Martin is only 29 years old, and he’s already considering himself old?
Then what about him, at the ripe age of 37?
Does Martin truly think he’s an old man or something?
Zhekova turned the conversation over in his mind.
He once again thought of a sentence Martin had said, about dating someone with the intention of marriage.
Though Martin didn’t mention Peggy Lewis in that sentence….
Zhekova couldn’t help himself from substituting her in.
Every time he thought about Peggy Lewis dating with marriage in mind and eventually getting married…
Even if it was not with Martin, it would still be with someone else.
If it was Martin, at least the developments would happen under his watch.
He would know what was happening and how far things had progressed.
He could always stay in the loop.
But if it was someone else, someone he didn’t know…
He would be left in the dark.
The thought of Peggy Lewis being in love with someone and marrying him, living with him…
Being held by someone, laughing with him, interacting intimately…
Perhaps even, engaging in much more intimate activities…
Lyke Zhekova was inexplicably irritated.
A violent outburst loomed around him, he felt like flipping the table.
Zhekova felt a surge of heat coursing through his body, his tie felt like it was strangling him.
He loosened his tie, finally allowing himself to breathe a little.
Zhekova then stood and stared out of the window for a while.
Later, he returned to his desk, drummed his fingers on the desk and pressed the interphone button.
Chapter 962: In Full Bloom_1 “Come in,” Lyke Zhekova said.
Wallace Martin began to feel some regret as he got up.
Had he been a bit too bold in provoking the tiger today?
Wallace Martin took a deep breath, finally feeling a bit nervous.
Of course, just a tiny bit.
“Knock, knock, knock!” He knocked on the door of Lyke Zhekova’s office again.
“Come in,” Lyke Zhekova’s voice came from inside.
...
Wallace Martin didn’t have the same swagger as before, as if he had been pulling the tiger’s whiskers.
This time, he was as docile as a lamb.
Especially obedient.
“Mr.
CEO,” Wallace Martin came in, closed the door behind him with a very good attitude, “What can I do for you?”
Lyke Zhekova looked up at Wallace Martin.
Seeing Wallace Martin looking as if he were shaking with nerves.
Lyke Zhekova casually threw the pen in his hand on the table.
“Alright, stop pretending,” Lyke Zhekova said.
“Hehehe!” Wallace Martin walked over, chuckling, “How am I pretending?
I’ve always been particularly reverent of you.”
Lyke Zhekova replied with a sarcastic “hehe” laugh.
Then he asked Wallace Martin again, “Do you think I’m old?”
Wallace Martin: “…”
What’s going on?
Why the sudden question about age?
Wallace Martin really wanted to reach out and touch Lyke Zhekova’s forehead to see if he was feverish.
But that didn’t seem right either, did he suddenly get sick?
What’s up with Lyke Zhekova now?
Without waiting for Wallace Martin’s answer, Lyke Zhekova urged him with a single syllable, “Hmm?”
“No!” Wallace Martin quickly shook his head, against his better judgment.
“The CEO is not old at all, but in the prime of life,” Wallace Martin said.
But he thought to himself, “As if!”
Even when he went home on weekends for dinner, his mom always said that Lyke Zhekova was getting old.
A man approaching forty who still hasn’t gotten married.
If he was a playboy, playing the field, constantly changing girlfriends, not wanting to get married.
They could call him a scumbag man, still wanting to play around, not wanting to get married.
But Lyke Zhekova doesn’t even have a girlfriend.
Wallace Martin might not know what Lyke Zhekova was like when he was young.
But since Wallace Martin graduated and joined Rumina Rumors.
At first, he worked in the Secretary Room.
Only later did he slowly rise to Lyke Zhekova’s side as an assistant.
Although Wallace Martin only has a bachelor’s degree and did not continue his education further.
But he graduated from Belfard University.
Belfard University and T University, as the top two universities in Hearth Nation, cannot even determine who exactly is the first.
The two are always close rivals.
It’s not to say that graduates of Belfard University and T University can surpass those with master’s degrees.
But Belfard University and T University graduates, even if they only have a bachelor’s degree, are indeed in high demand.
Even if it’s for Rumina Rumors position, it’s enough.
During the interview, nobody would think he was weak just because he only had a bachelor’s degree.
So, Wallace Martin successfully interviewed into Rumina Rumors.
All the way to now.
Because of his outstanding abilities, after working in the Secretary Room for a year, he distinguished himself and became Lyke Zhekova’s personal assistant.
Becoming almost equivalent to Lyke Zhekova’s spokesperson.
Actually, it was also because Lyke Zhekova’s demands were too high.
The previous assistants always, for one reason or another, didn’t meet Lyke Zhekova’s requirements.
Lyke Zhekova was always changing his personnel.
And the employees in the Secretary Room were actually candidates for Lyke Zhekova’s personal assistant.
Generally, when Lyke Zhekova’s previous assistant leaves, the next one is usually chosen from the Secretary Room.
And that’s how Wallace Martin distinguished himself and became Lyke Zhekova’s assistant.
Wallace Martin still remembers, when he just started at the company, barely familiar with the company’s business when he heard someone say, Lyke Zhekova has always been single.
The legend of Lyke Zhekova’s singlehood traced all the way back to the elder employees could remember.
Probably a few years back I guess.
Even further back, because of personnel changes, resignations, job hopping, and such in the company.
It became unreliable.
But at least during the years Wallace Martin has known about, Lyke Zhekova has always been single.
Until Wallace Martin became Lyke Zhekova’s assistant.
As for Lyke Zhekova’s day-to-day schedule, large and small, Wallace Martin knew everything.
He knew even more that Lyke Zhekova not only didn’t have a girlfriend, but he didn’t even have a chance to go out and meet any girls.
Let alone any ambiguous partner.
So, his mother became even more confused.
Lyke Zhekova wasn’t a playboy, so why was he still not married?
His mother began to worry about him when she was idle at home, not only worried about Wallace Martin, but also Lyke Zhekova.
Thinking about this, Wallace Martin regained a bit of his spirit and said to Lyke Zhekova: “And also, Mr.
CEO, you’re not just young in age, but young in appearance too.
You look like you’re not even thirty, still a young man.”
“If I were to flatter myself, if we went out together, people would think we were brothers.
How could they see the near 10-year difference in age?”
But these latter words, Wallace Martin only dared to quietly say in his heart and didn’t dare to say directly to Lyke Zhekova.
After all, these words also show that Lyke Zhekova is indeed somewhat old.
With Lyke Zhekova paying this much attention to his age, how could he not hold a grudge!
Wallace Martin wouldn’t say anything that could lead Lyke Zhekova to make associations!
This is the wisdom of him being Lyke Zhekova’s assistant!
Of course, it’s not like Lyke Zhekova only started caring about his age now.
Actually, once he turned thirty, he started to care about it and was particularly sensitive when people said he was old.
Wallace Martin found it strange.
If you care so much, why don’t you dare to get out of your single status and get married?
What’s the point of letting it drag on until you become an unwanted old bachelor?
Lyke Zhekova waved his hand, indicating that he accepted Wallace Martin’s sincere words.
“Mr.
CEO, is that all?” Wallace Martin asked again.
Lyke Zhekova tugged at his tie again.
He had almost forgotten why he had called Wallace Martin in because of his rambling.
Lyke Zhekova said to Wallace Martin, “The sharp thing, go get in touch with it first, when we talk about it…
”
Wallace Martin couldn’t resist his gossipy bad habit, and his bright eyes looked at Lyke Zhekova.
“When we talk about it?” Wallace Martin hinted at Lyke Zhekova to finish quickly.
“When we talk about it, let Sharp’s representative come to our company, and I’ll talk to them personally,” Lyke Zhekova said.
“Sharp’s representative?” Wallace Martin repeated.
That’s Peggy Lewis, right?
Lyke Zhekova had specified Peggy Lewis to be in charge.
He had a guess in his heart, but out of a meticulous and responsible attitude.
Wallace Martin asked again in a playfully sarcastic way, “You mean Miss Lewis, right?”
Lyke Zhekova faced Wallace Martin’s sarcastic smile.
Chapter 963: That Moronic Second Cousin_1 “Such a good-looking, energetic young man, but with such an obscene laugh.”
No wonder he still hasn’t found a girlfriend.
Lyke Zhekova decided, once he’s no longer single, he should advise Wallace Martin on these matters from the perspective of an experienced person.
Then he responded aloofly to Wallace, “What do you think?”
Wallace Martin blinked his eyes and said knowingly, “What if it’s still their CEO who is really in charge, and Miss Lewis is only assisting?
Then it would be their CEO who shows up.”
“If you don’t handle this well, I’ll send you to Virtuoso for some training,” Lyke warned.
Wallace Martin: “!”
Isn’t Virtuoso the company of Lyke’s dimwitted cousin, Gabriel Zhekova?
He doesn’t want to go there at all!
“I understand!” Wallace immediately assured, “I promise to handle it perfectly.”
“CEO, if there is nothing else, I’ll start working on it right away!” Wallace added.
...
Lyke waved him off, signaling Wallace to leave.
This kid Wallace understood his personality thoroughly after working with him for so long.
Taking advantage of being indispensable therefore not easily replaced, he always tested his boundaries time and again.
Lyke could not help but admit, he’d become accustomed to it.
Wallace exited the office and waited for about 20 minutes.
Lyke didn’t call him back in.
Wallace then settled down and began working on the tasks assigned by Lyke.
His first task was to secretly investigate whether General Manager Webster had serious misconducts like Mr.
Houston.
The investigation would take time, so for now, he had to wait.
Afterward, Wallace called Mr.
Houston to relay Lyke’s orders.
Hearing that Lyke instructed her to take a temporary leave, Mr.
Houston felt a chill run down his spine.
A chill penetrated her very bones.
“How long do I have to take leave for?” Mr.
Houston asked immediately.
Could her position be taken away when she returned from the leave?
Or even worse, could she be laid off?
News would spread quickly in the industry if someone at the level of Vice President got fired by the company.
It would be very hard for her to find a job then.
How would she find one?
Which company would be in need of a Vice President?
Although with her experience, she wouldn’t have to start from scratch.
But if she had to start from a mid-level position, she was not ready for such a drastic change.
Moreover, once the news of her dismissal got out,
Despite whether she applied or not, every company would investigate out of curiosity and inquire about the reasons for her dismissal.
Mr.
Houston might not yet know why she was asked to stop working,
But she had a clear understanding of what she had done.
It didn’t matter if her dismissal was due to her past deeds.
These matters were not hard to investigate.
Once inquiries were made, her secrets would be easily unearthed.
Who would want to employ her then?
Mr.
Houston was truly anxious now.
With her own predicament, how could she think about warning General Manager Webster?
Moreover, she knew well enough that General Manager Webster was conscientious and hadn’t overstepped lines like she had.
Mr.
Houston asked timidly, “Why am I being put on hold?”
“Assistant Wallace, there ought to be a reason for suspending my work, right?” Mr.
Houston said.
Mr.
Houston’s first suspicion was the partnership with the Virtuoso.
After all, everything went wrong the moment Lyke held onto the contract of that partnership.
“Is it because of the collaboration with the Virtuoso?” Mr.
Houston took the initiative, “I did have people investigate it.
Virtuoso has no issues and fits well with our company’s criteria for collaboration, that’s why I chose them.”
Wallace heard Mr.
Houston’s dignified tone, still laced with a hint of probe.
Wallace then honestly told her, “Mr.
Houston, there’s no need to test waters with me.
I’ll be straight with you.
The collaboration with Virtuoso isn’t a problem.
The company intends to continue the partnership with them.
You can rest assured.”
Mr.
Houston: “!”
Rest assured?
What is she to be assured about!
Continuing the partnership with the Virtuoso doesn’t benefit her.
The most pressing question now is her position!
“Just because you take leave, doesn’t mean you’re suspended.
And, I think you might already have a hunch regarding the ‘why,'” said Wallace.
“CEO knows exactly how the deal with Virtuoso came under your purview.”
At this point, Mr.
Houston felt her heart freeze over.
From the inside out, chilling her completely.
If Lyke knew about this matter, what else did he know?
Mr.
Houston was painfully aware of her actions.
However, Mr.
Houston didn’t dare to ask.
In case Lyke and Wallace weren’t actually aware of her past deeds.
Should she ask, wouldn’t that be like walking into a trap?
Assistant Wallace was too smart for her to sneak anything past him.
One slip of a hint would give him a solid hold over her.
“So this time!” Mr.
Houston struggled to say, “Assistant Wallace, please give me a clue.
What exactly does the CEO intend?
Am I suspended?
All these years, I’ve never caused any loss to the company.
On the contrary, I brought in substantial performance.”
“Even though I’ve overstepped in my personal matters while working with Virtuoso, I do differentiate between personal and official matters.
As you just said, Virtuoso is absolutely fine and perfectly fits the company’s criteria.
Then wouldn’t it be improper to mix my personal indiscretions with official matters?” Mr.
Houston said.
“If you’re unhappy, you can go argue with the CEO.
The decision was made by him.
I’m just the messenger,” Wallace shrugged off responsibility.
Mr.
Houston: “!”
Where would she dare to argue with Lyke?
Who, after so many years in the company, doesn’t know about Lyke’s temper?
His decisions, especially those relating to disciplinary matters, weren’t altered by discussion.
Often, further argument would lead to heavier punishment.
Therefore, there was no way Mr.
Houston would approach Lyke.
To placate her, Wallace soothingly said, “Don’t worry too much, Mr.
Houston.
This isn’t a suspension.
It’s just a temporary leave.”
“I think he just doesn’t want you to handle the Virtuoso collaboration anymore,” Wallace told her.
Mr.
Houston felt slightly relieved but still sensed that something wasn’t right, “If that’s the case, they could just take the Virtuoso collaboration away from me.
There’s no need for a leave.”
Before Wallace could answer, she said again, “Don’t tell me I should ask CEO.
You’ve worked with the CEO for so many years.
You understand him best.
Just tell me.”
Chapter 964: The Person Who Understands Lyke Zhekova the Most_1 How could Wallace Martin not have an answer for her?
Hearing Mr.
Houston’s question, Wallace Martin chuckled, saying unhurriedly: “The CEO is not worried about you, but Jacob Zahn.”
“There is no problem with Realforce Corp.
per se, but the CEO really dislikes the way Jacob Zahn conducts business,” Wallace Martin said.
As for what those methods were, Wallace Martin didn’t elaborate, but Mr.
Houston should have an idea.
Isn’t it about Jacob Zahn trading himself for contracts?
...
Although Wallace Martin didn’t elaborate, Mr.
Houston understood immediately.
Instantly, he felt embarrassed.
Luckily, he was on the phone and Wallace Martin had not personally sought Mr.
Houston to face him directly.
At least that eased some of the embarrassment.
“Because the CEO suspects his character due to the shady means he uses to acquire partnerships.
How can we trust someone like that in future collaborations?
As you know, the CEO values the character of his business partners,” Wallace Martin said.
“So, there’s no problem with Realforce itself, and they are indeed responsible for our company’s partnership requirements.
The CEO is not intending to replace Realforce.
But we need to change the people in-charge of this collaboration; it’s not intended to be handed over to Jacob Zahn,” Wallace Martin said.
“That’s why we asked you to take a short leave, to avoid Jacob Zahn turning to you when the change of personnel happens,” Wallace Martin said.
“At that time, it would invite unnecessary trouble.
If you don’t go on leave and you are no longer in-charge of this collaboration, can you refuse Jacob Zahn if he comes looking for you?” Wallace Martin laughed lightly.
Mr.
Houston was just about to say that he could do so.
But before he could speak, Wallace Martin said: “Even if you promise, the CEO wouldn’t trust you, so your assurances would be useless.”
“In my opinion, you’d do better to say nothing and cooperate fully.
As you know, the CEO prefers subordinates who can cooperate,” Wallace Martin said.
“In doing so, you’ll show a good attitude, you’d have agreed to cooperate without any opposition.
Once the cooperation with Realforce is settled, you can carry on as usual, without any impact,” Wallace Martin said.
Mr.
Houston seemed to understand Wallace Martin’s hint, and said: “Martin, you mean…
after cooperating well this time, the CEO won’t blame me?”
“I can’t make a full guarantee on that,” Wallace Martin gave a hint, but did not directly reply.
But Mr.
Houston felt that Wallace Martin had essentially made his stance clear.
He trusted Wallace Martin’s words.
After all, Wallace Martin truly was the person who understood Lyke Zhekova the most in the entire company.
Always by Lyke Zhekova’s side, Wallace Martin certainly knew what Lyke Zhekova was thinking.
“However, what I do know is that the CEO expects you to do nothing when Jacob Zahn comes looking for you on this matter since you are on forced leave.
Jacob Zahn can’t do anything through you anymore.
And he has no contacts with other people in the company.
He can’t interfere in this matter anymore,” Wallace Martin said.
“That way, you’ll also avoid being harassed by him.
And it will also prevent you from feeling torn due to your relationship with him, right?” This time, Wallace Martin simply revealed the relationship between Mr.
Houston and Jacob Zahn.
Mr.
Houston: “…”
“I understand.” Mr.
Houston’s voice sounded a bit weak.
He was feeling very upset.
He was on forced leave.
When this news broke out, even if people in the company didn’t know why he was on forced leave, they would know that he had done something wrong.
This penalty was quite severe in itself.
“Martin, after this incident, I’ll really be okay, right?” Mr.
Houston felt uneasy and suspecting something amiss, he confirmed once again.
But Martin simply said: ” Mr.
Houston, this is a penalty and it takes immediate effect.
You might as well leave the company now.
As for your forced leave, it will not be announced across the company.
It’s as if you’ve taken a leave, all the annual leaves you’ve accumulated, all are being granted now.”
Mr.
Houston finally took a sigh of relief.
Listening to Wallace Martin, he felt the company’s protection everywhere.
At least, they still cared about his face at the moment, they did not let this matter spread within the company, and they did not even send an internal email.
This meant that the company did not intend to make a big deal out of this.
They still wanted to protect him.
Mr.
Houston felt much more at ease.
He felt that he should be able to return to the company after the contract with Realforce was signed.
As for Jacob Zahn, Mr.
Houston thought coldly that he would no longer contact Jacob Zahn in the future.
Even though this matter wasn’t really related to Jacob Zhan.
Jacob Zahn did not act inappropriately.
But Mr.
Houston still felt that he was implicated by Jacob Zahn.
Chapter 965: Very Measured_1 If it weren’t for Jacob Zahn, she wouldn’t have been found out.
But she didn’t think that flies don’t sting a faultless egg.
In the beginning, it was her hobby that Jacob Zahn became aware of, and that’s why he deliberately approached her.
After Wallace Martin had Mr.
Houston fooled, he started working on getting in touch with the sharp-witted organization.
Wallace Martin did not contact Peggy Lewis directly, but first made a phone call to the CEO of the sharp-witted group.
When the CEO heard from his secretary that it was Wallace Martin who was on the line, he was astonished.
...
Once the secretary transferred the call, the CEO eagerly exclaimed, “Mr.
Martin.”
“CEO,” Wallace Martin politely replied, “Hello.”
“Hello, hello,” the CEO said quickly, “Mr.
Martin, are you contacting me about a collaboration with our company?”
“Indeed, I am,” Wallace Martin confirmed.
The CEO did not expect this matter to involve Wallace Martin personally.
Not just in the CEO’s perspective, but in the eyes of everyone, Wallace Martin held a higher position than Mr.
Houston.
Having Wallace Martin himself call made the CEO’s heart skip a beat.
Especially since the previously agreed contract was personally held back by Lyke Zhekova.
This made the CEO even more nervous.
“Mr.
Martin, did you personally call because there has been a change in our collaboration?
” the CEO asked anxiously.
“Did we do something wrong on our end?
Please let us know, so we can correct it and fully cooperate,” the CEO said.
In his nervousness, the CEO couldn’t think straight.
If Majestic was planning on changing their minds and refused to collaborate with their company,
There would be no need for Wallace Martin to personally call and notify him.
Any employee could have contacted their Business Department, and that would have sufficed.
Wallace Martin said, “CEO, rest assured, our collaboration remains the same.
However, there has been a minor change.”
Though the CEO was relieved at first by the former part of the sentence, his relief quickly turned into apprehension after he heard the latter part.
“It’s hard to explain everything over the phone, so I thought I should arrange a meeting at your company to talk face-to-face, so we don’t create unnecessary misunderstandings through this call,” said Wallace Martin.
The CEO admired this; certainly, someone working as the assistant to Majestic’s CEO would be capable of seeing to every detail.
“When are you available, CEO?” Wallace Martin asked.
Of course, he was available any time!
“Any time will do, I’ll accommodate your schedule,” the CEO immediately replied.
In doing so, the CEO seemed to forget he was the CEO of a large company too.
Even though their company was incomparable to Majestic, it wasn’t a small company.
Checking his work schedule, Wallace Martin saw that it was Friday, and it was almost time to leave work, so a meeting wasn’t feasible.
Wallace Martin proposed, “How about Monday morning at 10 o’clock?
I will visit you at your company.
Does that work for you?”
“Of course, it does,” the CEO responded quickly, “That won’t be a problem.”
After confirming with the CEO, Wallace Martin hung up the phone.
Looking at the time, there were only 10 minutes left before the end of the workday.
Although he had moved out and lived by himself, he always went back to his parents’ house every Friday to visit them.
Unless he had extra work on the weekend, he would stay at his parents’ house.
If there was only a small amount of extra work, he would still return to his parents’ house, spending and enjoying time with them.
Wallace Martin’s family has been in Belfard since his grandfather’s generation.
Now, the main family elders all lived in Belfard.
Some members had moved elsewhere for work, settled there, and expanded their families over the generations.
However, their ancestral home didn’t have many family members, and Wallace Martin wasn’t closely related to those who remained there.
Wallace Martin checked his work schedule for the day.
There wasn’t much left to do.
At the end of the workday, Wallace Martin packed up and drove back to his parents’ home.
Considering Wallace Martin’s treatment by Lyke Zhekova,
In addition to his salary and bonuses written in the company contract, he, Sheldon Rowland, and Adam Zahn all had their own investments.
Although these aides acted as oxen and horses for the CEOs,
They occasionally grumbled about it.
Actually, they did earn quite a bit of money.
When Wallace Martin first moved out, he thought that being a grown man, he shouldn’t be living with his parents any longer nor continue to be dependent on them.
Living alone made it easier for him to work and make friends.
Especially when it came to company parties or get-togethers with classmates and friends.
Sometimes, the parties would run late, and he didn’t want to disturb his parents when he returned home.
His parents always kept him in check and nagged him all the time.
It was much more convenient to live alone, and he could also find a place closer to his company.
In the beginning, before he became Lyke Zhekova’s assistant, Wallace Martin did not have the financial means and had to rent a place.
However, after securing his position as Lyke Zhekova’s assistant,
His financial situation gradually improved, allowing him to buy a house of his own nearby.
Wallace Martin drove home.
Before he even walked in the door, he could smell the delicious aroma of the food from the hallway.
Even with neighbors on both sides, Wallace Martin could always tell that the aroma was from his mother’s cooking.
Upon entering the house, he was greeted by an even richer scent of food coming from the Kitchen.
Mr.
Martin was sitting on the living room couch with his mobile phone, probably chatting with friends in a Whatsapp group.
Upon hearing a noise, he looked up and said, “You’re back.”
“Yeah,” replied Wallace Martin.
Mrs.
Martin was busy in the kitchen, the clanging of pans, the noise of the exhaust hood, and the sizzling of oil in the pot could all be heard.
Mrs.
Martin raised her voice and shouted, “Is our son back?”
“I’m back, mom,” Wallace Martin also raised his voice and replied.
“Quickly wash your hands, change your clothes; the meal will be ready in less than twenty minutes,” Mrs.
Martin said.
“Alright.” So Wallace Martin went to wash his hands and change his clothes.
Free from the restraints of formal wear and changed into comfortable home clothes, he emerged.
Mr.
Martin took off his reading glasses, put down his mobile phone and asked, “How’s work lately?”
Wallace Martin didn’t come back last week because he had to work overtime.
“Nothing major, I’ve been working with our CEO for a long time, so we’re well-coordinated, and things have been going very smoothly lately,” Wallace Martin replied.
“The meal’s ready, come help me bring it out,” Mrs.
Martin called from the Kitchen.
So Wallace Martin and Mr.
Martin stood up together and went into the Kitchen, taking the dishes that Mrs.
Martin had served up to the dinner table.
“Don’t rely on your tenure or proximity to your CEO to become complacent,” Mr.
Martin warned.
“Once you do, that’s when you’ll start making mistakes.”
“Dad, I know,” Wallace Martin responded.
“Right, don’t nag at him every time he comes home,” Mrs.
Martin chimed in.
“Our son knows his limits.”
Chapter 966: Our CEO is Now in Love with Someone_1 “I mean, what could you possibly be dissatisfied about with our son?
He’s only recently joined the company and has already become the CEO’s personal assistant.
The role may not sound impressive, but just think about how much he’s been able to learn!” Mrs.
Martin said.
“Leaving everything else behind, just take these years of investment for example, isn’t everything he learned from standing beside their CEO?
He’s already doing so well.” Mrs.
Martin said, beaming.
...
How could she not be happy?
Everyone in the neighborhood is saying that her son is the most successful amongst them all.
Mrs.
Martin couldn’t help but agree.
If only her son could hasten his marriage and have a child, it wouldn’t matter whether it was a boy or a girl, everything would be perfect then.
“By the way, speaking of your CEO, is he still single?” Mrs.
Martin asked.
“Yep.” Wallace Martin nodded casually, and Peggy Lewis popped up in his mind.
But this matter hasn’t made much progress, everything was based on his speculation.
And so, it wasn’t quite appropriate to tell his family about it.
Although their social circle didn’t overlap much with the Zhekova family.
When it comes to uncertain matters, Wallace Martin has a habit of keeping it to himself.
Who knew, Mrs.
Martin then asked, “Hey, your CEO, is he…
is he…”
“What?” asked Wallace Martin, taking a mouthful of rice, looking at Mrs.
Martin quizzically.
What is he?
“Is he a homosexual?” Mrs.
Martin asked.
Wallace Martin almost choked on his rice: “Cough, cough!
Mom, why would you think that?”
“Well, let me analyze it for you.” Mrs.
Martin began, “Your CEO is already 37 and still single.
I don’t have a problem with this, I’m not discriminating against single old bachelors.”
Wallace Martin: “…”
Isn’t this still discrimination?
“But if your CEO is a playboy who wants to remain free and doesn’t want to settle down, hence not wanting to get married.
Although I can’t understand, but it seems like a reasonable reason.” Mrs.
Martin said.
“But your CEO never had a girlfriend!” Mrs.
Martin said, “This is way too abnormal.”
“He’s not unattractive, on the contrary, he’s quite handsome!
His body seems perfectly healthy too.” Mrs.
Martin said.
Wallace Martin felt like he should clear this up for Lyke Zhekova: “Not just ‘seems’, his body is indeed perfectly healthy.”
Mrs.
Martin waved her hand, indicating that such a small detail doesn’t really matter.
“Just as you put it, the man is handsome and healthy and comes from a good family background.
All these favorable conditions are all possessed by him, yet he has no girlfriend, this is not normal!”
“As for girls who like him, there must be plenty, and he is surrounded by people daily.
His family surely wouldn’t cease the efforts to introduce him to others.
Yet he still doesn’t have a girlfriend to this day.
Unless he likes men!” Mrs.
Martin said, agitated.
Wallace Martin: “…”
“No…
that can’t be.” Wallace Martin thought to himself, recalling Peggy Lewis, their CEO definitely isn’t gay.
Even if there was a time when he had his own suspicions.
But now, Wallace Martin is certain.
“Why not?” Mrs.
Martin firmly believed in her own observation, “Taking all these things together, the conclusion is obvious!”
Suddenly, Mrs.
Martin looked at Wallace Martin in horror.
Wallace Martin: “…”
He could see something odd in his mother’s gaze.
“Wallace, tell me the truth.” Mrs.
Martin suddenly put on a serious face.
Wallace Martin: “…”
“Mom, what’s up?” Wallace Martin asked cautiously.
“Tell me, has your CEO ever shown any interest in you?” Mrs.
Martin asked.
“Wh…
what?
Mom, what are you talking about!” Wallace Martin almost sprayed the bowl of rice out.
Who could have seen that, noticing Wallace Martin’s reaction, Mrs.
Martin became even more suspicious.
“Wallace, you wouldn’t…
you wouldn’t be into men, would you!” Mrs.
Martin looked at Wallace in horror and seemed like she was about to cry.
Wallace Martin felt wronged: “What the hell!”
“Then tell me, why haven’t you started dating yet?
Every day you’re with your CEO.” Mrs.
Martin said.
“Two good-looking men like you both, spending so much time together, both of you not dating anyone, what good can come out of this?”
“I’m not homophobic, and I fully support pursuing true love.
Wallace, if you are, don’t hide it, tell me, and we can discuss it together!” Mrs.
Martin said.
Wallace Martin thought to himself, “Holy crap!”
Seems like his mother was now taking a gentle approach.
She was ready to let his guard down first, get him to tell the truth, then figure out how to deal with him?
Damn it!
What truth?
He’s not into men!
He’s not hiding his preference!
“Mom, what are you talking about!?
I’m into girls, I like girls!” Wallace Martin felt that he was utterly wronged.
But Mrs.
Martin no longer believed him: “Wallace, okay, let’s say you’re into men.”
Wallace Martin: “…”
Mom?
“Shit!” Mrs.
Martin smacked her lips, “I misspoke.
I meant to say, even though you’re into girls.
But what if your CEO isn’t?”
Finally, Mr.
Martin couldn’t stand it anymore: “Alright, alright, you were blaming me for making assumptions, aren’t you doing the same thing right now?
Look, you’ve scared Wallace.”
“Wallace, think carefully.
Is there anything strange about your CEO’s attitude towards you?” Mrs.
Martin continued.
Wallace Martin: “…”
“Mom, don’t think too much.
My lack of dating is because I’ve been too busy.
I always work overtime, and not just on weekdays, I even work overtime on holidays, you know that.” Wallace Martin said helplessly.
“I’m so busy, where would I find the time to meet girls and expand my social circle?
Not to mention having a relationship.
Even if I were to meet a nice girl, there’s simply no time for dating!
Her likely complaint would probably lead to a breakup.”
These words reminded Mrs.
Martin once again.
“Was your CEO making you work overtime and keeping you busy part of his scheme?” she asked again.
Wallace Martin: “…”
Can he even explain himself at this point?
“Is he deliberately giving you so much work and making you work overtime so that you don’t have time to meet girls or date?
In this way, you would have to stick with him as you see each other day and night.” Mrs.
Martin’s imagination was running wild.
Wallace Martin: “…”
“I remember there was a period when your CEO made you work overtime particularly hard.
You almost had to live in the office!” Mrs.
Martin has a great memory.
“Mom!” Wallace felt that if he didn’t bring up Peggy Lewis now, it will be the end of him.
He silently apologized to Lyke Zhekova and Peggy Lewis in his mind.
If he didn’t provide this information, he would be as good as dead.
“Mom!
Our CEO has someone he likes now.” Wallace Martin finally mentioned.
Chapter 967: It Has Nothing To Do With Jacob Zahn_1 “Huh?” Mrs.
Martin’s excitement finally isn’t as high, “Who is it?”
“I haven’t met them yet.
There are a few companies vying for a chance to collaborate with our company,” said Wallace Martin.
“This girl works at one of those companies.
It’s not her taking care of the collaboration, one of her male colleagues is.
That male colleague…” Wallace Martin spoke about Jacob Zahn and Mr.
Houston in general terms.
...
He didn’t explain it very clearly.
The main aim was to bring up Peggy Lewis.
He wanted to prevent his mother from letting her imagination run wild.
Today he really experienced his mother’s imaginative mind.
Absolutely awesome.
“From my point of view, the reason our CEO held onto that contract, apart from suspecting that something might be wrong with Deputy Mr.
Houston, was also to get a chance to meet Miss Lewis,” Wallace Martin suggested.
“If the contract were to be handled by someone else, would it have anything to do with Miss Lewis then?
How can our CEO approach her?” Wallace Martin questioned rhetorically.
“Plus, another thing crossed my mind.
I didn’t pay much attention to it at first, but now, the more I think about it, the stranger it feels,” said Wallace Martin.
“What?” Mrs.
Martin inquired eagerly.
Her gossipy eyes looked just like when Wallace Martin was checking out Lyke Zhekova in the afternoon.
Seems like Wallace Martin inherited this gossipy trait from his mother.
“Previously, our CEO had asked me to investigate Majestic.
At that time, I didn’t think much about it.
Now when I think about it, maybe he wanted to know about Miss Lewis who works at Majestic instead of the company itself.
He might have also been afraid that I would find out, so, he deliberately kept it hidden without explicitly saying so,” suggested Wallace Martin.
“This afternoon, I asked him.
Even though our CEO didn’t admit it, he didn’t deny it either.
Mom, even if you haven’t met our CEO, you know his character.
If there was really nothing going on, he would absolutely deny it immediately.
Would he be so ambiguous in his answer?”
This time Mrs.
Martin agreed, nodding her head, “Your explanation does make sense.”
Mrs.
Martin sighed, “When wealthy men chase a girl, it truly is extraordinary.”
Wallace Martin pricked up his ears, looking as if he was listening attentively.
Mrs.
Martin commented, “Normally, people try to win a girl over with flowers or dinner dates.
Your CEO directly uses a contract as a tool to court her.
Magnificent!
Truly generous!”
Wallace Martin: “…”
Now that she mentions it, it’s indeed the case.
Their CEO truly chooses unconventional ways.
While she was speaking, Mrs.
Martin suddenly pounded her chopsticks on the table.
Unprepared, Wallace Martin and Mr.
Martin jumped at the sudden sound.
Mr.
Martin grumbled, “Why would you give us such a fright?”
Mrs.
Martin ignored him and said, “And look at you!
At his age, even our CEO knows to chase girls and get out of singlehood.
But you?
You’re at the best age yet you don’t put effort.”
“When you were single, you learned from our CEO.
Now that our CEO is about to leave singlehood, why don’t you learn from him?” Mrs.
Martin exclaimed angrily.
“Wallace Martin, didn’t you learn that poem in elementary school?” Mrs.
Martin asked.
Wallace Martin: “…”
What poem?
What does it have to do with being single?
“You don’t work hard when you’re young, and regret when you get old, do you know, it’s talking about you!” said Mrs.
Martin.
“…” Mr.
Martin asked weakly, “What has this poem got to do with our son?”
“How can it not?
It means when you are young and strong, you should seize the opportunity to pursue girls, hurry up and get married.
When you are old and still single, who would want you?
Isn’t that a regret?”
Wallace Martin: “…”
If he had actually studied Chinese Language in primary school like that, wouldn’t he be beaten blue and black by his parents?
The Martin’s because of the possibility that Lyke Zhekova might soon get into a relationship, almost had a violent quarrel.
Wallace Martin was even kicked out of the house.
She told him to go anywhere else, just not home.
To hang out outside.
Since he’s so good looking, perhaps some girl might ask for his contact information?
This was how Wallace Martin spent a rather miserable weekend.
On Monday, Wallace Martin first came to the company to clock in, then took some documents meant for a meeting with CEO Zahn, and drove to Majestic.
With an excited heart and trembling hands, Wallace Martin entered Majestic’s door.
The excitement was almost on par with his first day at Majestic.
Wallace Martin resisted the urge to go directly to the Business Department to see Peggy Lewis in person.
Instead, he decided to go to CEO Zahn’s office first.
Upon receiving a notification from CEO Zahn, his secretary immediately invited Wallace Martin into the CEO’s office.
“Mr.
Martin!” CEO Zahn personally greeted him, shaking Wallace Martin’s hand.
“CEO Zahn, nice to meet you,” Wallace Martin responded politely.
“Mr.
Martin, please sit,” CEO Zahn invited Wallace Martin to sit on the couch nearby.
The secretary brought in coffee and cookies.
“CEO Zahn, allow me to tell you directly what our CEO meant,” Wallace Martin said.
“Yes, go ahead,” CEO Zahn hurriedly replied.
“Our CEO’s intention is for the collaboration between us to continue.
The terms offered by Majestic are very much in line with our requirements,” Wallace Martin stated.
“There are no problems with the original contract terms either, we can proceed according to the original plan,” Wallace Martin added.
At this point, CEO Zahn was confused.
Since there is no problem, why did Wallace Martin personally come?
“Earlier, the reason we held off the contract was because we discovered an unscrupulous relationship between our Deputy Mr.
Houston and Jacob Zahn of your Business Department.”
“Even though there’s no issue with our cooperation, the way Jacob Zahn handled this collaboration was questionable.
Our CEO values the character of the other party very much, including employees like Jacob Zahn.”
“Of course, there are some issues with our Deputy Mr.
Houston too,” Wallace Martin stated.
“So, our CEO’s intention is for the collaboration to continue, but the person who negotiates the collaboration needs to be replaced.
Jacob Zahn won’t do.
The credit and benefits of signing this contract should not go to Jacob Zahn.”
“Basically, this matter, from start to finish, has nothing to do with Jacob Zahn,” Wallace Martin elaborated.
CEO Zahn was taken aback by Wallace Martin’s words.
The intention was to continue cooperation, but on the condition of replacing Jacob Zahn.
It seemed that Majestic was considering replacing Deputy Mr.
Houston as well.
Of course, what Majestic does, CEO Zahn has no control over.
He just has to take care of his own side first.
CEO Zahn was still shocked and hadn’t yet reacted.
He needed a good while to gather his thoughts.
It took a while until CEO Zahn finally said, “Mr.
Martin, I understand your intention.”
Chapter 968: Forgive my presumption _1 “Our cooperation will continue, but from our side, we need to replace Jacob Zahn,” said the CEO.
Seeing that Wallace Martin wanted to add something, the CEO took the initiative to say, “Moreover, Jacob Zahn has nothing to do with this matter.
We can act as if he has never negotiated this cooperation.”
Wallace Martin gave a satisfied smile: “Exactly my thoughts.”
The CEO nodded, saying, “That won’t be a problem.”
For him, cooperation with Majestic is of greater importance.
As for the gains and losses of a small employee like Jacob Zahn, they are not within the CEO’s considerations.
Even if the possibility of cooperating with Majestic was initially brought by Jacob Zahn, it wouldn’t make a difference.
“That’s excellent.” Wallace Martin nodded contentedly.
The CEO then said, “However, I have a question, and I hope Mr.
...
Martin can answer it.”
“Please ask.” Wallace Martin said.
“Jacob Zahn will definitely not be in charge of this matter again, I can assure you,” said the CEO.
“I just want to know, why was Jacob Zahn replaced?”
“It’s rather embarrassing to say that Jacob Zahn is an employee of our company, yet I’m unaware of the inappropriate things he has done.
I have to hear it from you.”
“However, after knowing, I will consider some of the future appointments for Jacob Zahn,” the CEO said.
“You said earlier that the CEO values the character of the partner very much.
So does this mean that Jacob Zahn has issues with his character…” the CEO inquired.
“This also has to do with some disgrace from our Majestic, but I might as well tell you,” Wallace Martin chuckled slightly embarrassed, “Jacob Zahn was able to get this contract because he accompanied our company’s Mr.
Houston, and their relationship…”
Wallace Martin laughed awkwardly, “Involves some intimate matters.”
“From Mr.
Houston’s side, it’s certain that our company will deal with it,” said Wallace Martin, “As for Jacob Zahn, it is not within our jurisdiction.
But our CEO despises people of low moral standards.”
“In order to secure cooperation, he even resorted to selling himself and disrupting other people’s homes, which our CEO finds reprehensible.
The crux of the matter is that among all these companies, our company was indeed the most suitable choice from the start.”
“Even without the presence of Jacob Zahn, we would have chosen your company for cooperation in the end.
This way, our cooperation is pure and unadulterated by any unpleasant matters,” said Wallace Martin.
“But because of Jacob Zahn’s nonsense, if people were to find out about it, your company would be accused of using disgraceful means to win the competition.
And our Majestic would also be accused of giving contracts to anyone willing to…hehe…
court favor from our employees.
What kind of joke would that make our Majestic?
We would be ridiculed and questioned about our company’s decision making and so on, creating many negative effects.”
The CEO also thought of these things when Wallace Martin mentioned them.
Cold sweat was about to break out instantly.
“Yes, yes, you’re absolutely right,” said the CEO, nodding his head in fear, “Thanks to CEO Zhekova noticing this early.
Otherwise, it would have been a joke on both our companies.”
“Exactly,” Wallace Martin agreed with a nod.
“So it is our CEO’s intention that the person in charge of our cooperation should be replaced on your side,” Wallace Martin said.
The CEO immediately replied, “Then I will take the responsibility personally.”
“…” Wallace Martin hurried to say, “That is not necessary.
If you take charge personally, once the rumor spreads, it will still invite suspicion.
If someone were to investigate…wouldn’t we be back at the same problem as before?”
“Let’s have someone from the Business Department take charge,” the CEO concluded in a flash.
Wallace Martin didn’t dare to be too straightforward, so he suggested, “How about Manager Thompson recommending someone she trusts from the business department?”
Fearing there would be another mishap, Wallace Martin added, “The key is having good skills and character.
For a collaboration of this scale, we can’t let anyone simply take advantage of the situation, can we?”
“My suggestion is to find someone who is well-regarded by leaders, someone who can be heavily relied upon in the future.
After all, our two companies may not only be cooperating once.
In the future, there will still be many opportunities for cooperation, so we must find a responsible and capable person to hold the fort.”
“Otherwise, finding someone randomly, and then they leave after reaping the benefits, we would have to change the person in charge of our cooperation.
This instability is not very good, right?” Wallace Martin suggested, causing the CEO to nod his head repeatedly.
Wallace Martin then continued: “Mr.
CEO, please forgive me for overstepping my bounds.
This is your company’s business, yet a lowly assistant like me has interfered too much.”
“No, no, not at all,” the CEO hurriedly waved his hand, obviously trying to flatter Wallace Martin.
When Wallace Martin is happy, he will speak highly of their company in front of CEO Zhekova.
The CEO had heard Wallace Martin say that there would be many opportunities for cooperation between the two companies in the future.
This cooperation is not the only one.
If they could truly keep the partnership going for the long haul, their firm would definitely hit the jackpot!
“You make a lot of sense,” the CEO said sincerely, “The matter came very suddenly.
If I were to mull it over, I’d need to think hard for a bit.”
“The moment you explained it, I had a sudden revelation.” He hastily added.
How could the CEO not think of this on his own?
If he couldn’t even think of this, how could he be the CEO of a large company?
If he had such limited abilities, even if he rose to his position through some means, he wouldn’t be able to hold his place for long.
Being a total newbie, it wouldn’t take long for someone to pull his strings.
But what the CEO said was not just to flatter Wallace Martin.
In the face of such a sudden onslaught of issues, the CEO was utterly shocked and indeed had no time to think about anything else for a while.
It was only after he calmed down that he could think of these matters.
But the CEO was still quite impressed with Wallace Martin.
It’s no wonder that he works by CEO Zhekova’s side.
His reaction was quick and he thought of a lot instantly.
Is it easy to be by CEO Zhekova’s side?
Not easy at all.
Otherwise, before Wallace Martin, why did CEO Zhekova change so many assistants?
They all couldn’t keep up with CEO Zhekova.
It was only when Wallace Martin arrived that things truly stabilized.
Working with CEO Zhekova, Wallace Martin has stayed for many years.
Wallace Martin thought to himself, having said this much, there shouldn’t be any errors now, right!
According to his investigation, Manager Thompson actually thinks highly of Peggy Lewis.
If Manager Thompson were to choose, the probability of her recommending Peggy Lewis would be high.
But the matter is not finalized yet, so Wallace Martin still couldn’t feel at ease.
Therefore, Wallace Martin still didn’t propose to leave yet.
Instead, he said to the CEO again, “Chief, if possible, can I meet Manager Thompson?”
Chapter 969: That is Quite Significant!
_1 “I would also like to hear Manager Thompson’s opinion.
Was I presumptuous again?
I want to know who Manager Thompson plans to recommend to take charge of this collaboration, so I can explain to our CEO back at the office.”
“Otherwise, when I go back and our CEO asks who your company plans to replace to discuss the cooperation with us, if I know nothing, that would be dereliction of duty.” Wallace Martin smiles awkwardly, “Then, our CEO would be blaming me.”
CEO Jacob Zahn can’t help but mutter to himself, is your CEO really so meticulous?
Even knowing who is responsible for negotiating?
As Jacob Zahn was silently muttering, his expression revealed his thoughts to Wallace Martin.
...
After all, Wallace Martin is a close associate of Lyke Zhekova.
Such sharp eyes!
One glance and Martin picked up on Jacob’s thoughts, and said, “Normally our CEO wouldn’t be concerned.
But who led to this issue other than Jacob Zahn and Mr.
Houston?”
“So, this collaboration has been flagged to our CEO,” Wallace Martin said with a smile.
He was also hinting to Jacob that their CEO is watching his company.
You’d better fully cooperate and not cause any problems.
If Peggy Lewis ends up in charge of this collaboration, and your company stirs up trouble, Peggy Lewis will have to take the blame.
That would be quite unfortunate.
Although Jacob doesn’t know the real purpose of Wallace Martin’s suggestion, he understands the implication.
He knows his company is flagged for attention from Lyke Zhekova.
Perhaps it’s even quite memorable.
This could be good or bad.
On the bright side, Jacob Zahn’s company is now on Lyke Zhekova’s radar.
That’s not something just any company can achieve.
Many companies aspire to, but can’t.
But on the downside, they absolutely cannot make any mistakes now.
If even a tiny bit something goes wrong, Lyke Zhekova will know!
So Jacob Zahn started to feel very nervous again at this point.
At the same time, he was very thankful for the hints from Wallace Martin.
Wallace was so friendly on their first meeting, giving him many hints.
Jacob was exceedingly grateful.
Jacob started to see Martin as if he were a sworn brother.
Unbeknownst to him, Martin foxy, achieved his own goal and even had Jacob feeling grateful for him.
“Of course, if Jacob Zahn finds this too abrupt, we can do it another day.
Once you have your candidate, just let me know, and if there is no problem, I will report to our CEO,” said Wallace Martin.
“However, in that case!” Wallace Martin looked uncomfortable, “This would mean pushing back the issue.”
“From what I see, your company does really value this collaboration,” Wallace Martin said looking at Jacob.
Jacob quickly nodded, “Absolutely!”
“So I thought, you might be eager to finalize the collaboration,” Wallace Martin added.
Jacob nodded even more forcefully, “Definitely!”
“Our company is particularly focusing on this collaboration, otherwise I wouldn’t be personally involved.
I was really anxious when the collaboration was temporarily paused; I didn’t know what the problem was.”
“Now that everything is fine, I’d prefer to have results as soon as possible,” Jacob said quickly, “I’ll call Manager Thompson up right now to hear her thoughts.”
Wallace Martin nodded with a smile, showing that he appreciated Jacob’s proactive attitude.
“You’ll just have to wait a bit longer,” Jacob said.
“That’s okay, I came here to ensure that everything goes smoothly,” said Wallace Martin, “I’m the one our CEO trusts, she doesn’t feel secure leaving it to others.
You can see how seriously our CEO is taking this collaboration.”
“Yes, yes, yes,” Jacob kept nodding, and immediately called Manager Thompson.
“Manager Thompson,” said Jacob, even turning on the speakerphone so Wallace Martin could hear.
Showing that they certainly weren’t doing anything surreptitious.
Wallace Martin thought to himself that Jacob was being too cautious.
But, Jacob’s caution was a good thing for them.
“Jacob,” came Thompson’s voice through the phone.
“Please come up now, there’s something I need to discuss with you,” Jacob said.
“Alright,” Thompson said before hanging up.
In no time at all, Thompson came in.
Seeing Wallace Martin, she was taken aback.
“Mr.
Martin,” Thompson immediately said.
As Lyke Zhekova’s assistant, Wallace Martin was quite well-known in the circle.
Ordinary managers might not know Wallace Martin very well.
But Thompson had done her homework as she’s about to be promoted.
Jacob Zahn, being even more senior, interacted with higher levels and was certainly familiar with Wallace Martin.
Like Jacob, Thompson didn’t call Martin ‘Assistant Martin.’
Instead, she addressed him as Mr.
Martin.
Becuase calling him ‘Assistant Martin’ will sound less prestigious as if he was any ordinary assistant.
They didn’t dare to call Wallace Martin that way.
But, Wallace Martin didn’t mind.
In the past, he had told people not to be so formal.
But no one listened.
So, Wallace Martin just stopped mentioning it, let them call him whatever they like.
After all, CEO Lyke Zhekova didn’t mind, so neither did he.
“Manager Thompson,” said Wallace Martin courteously.
Seeing Wallace Martin there left Thompson with many questions so she looked at Jacob Zahn.
“Manager Thompson, please take a seat,” Jacob said.
Thompson sat down across from the two men.
Jacob briefly explained the purpose of Martin’s visit.
“So, Majestic’s idea is to switch to another staffer from the Business Department,” Jacob said, “as for the specific choice, we would like to hear your opinion.
We mainly want to choose from long-standing employees.
Old employees who have been with the company for many years have settled down, unlike new employees who may leave if they’re unsatisfied.
Then, we’d have to swap people in again, which would be very inconvenient.”
“Furthermore, you certainly know who in your department has strong capabilities, is responsible and diligent, and doesn’t have any baggage,” Jacob said.
Jacob’s requirements quickly brought Peggy Lewis to Thompson’s mind.
She fit all the criteria.
Thompson said, “I do indeed have a suitable candidate here.”
“It’s Peggy Lewis,” Thompson added, “She has been a long-time employee.
She has always been very motivated since her early days and has never complained, no matter how much work she has.”
“Now, she’s a senior staff member in the department, she takes good care of the juniors, and she has gained quite a bit of respect,” Thompson said.
Wallace Martin had previously researched, so he knew a bit.
But hearing it from Thompson brought different feelings.
The direct supervisor praising with such certainty affirmed her capabilities.
Chapter 970: Can’t Stand Even This Bit of Slander?_1 It was clear that Peggy Lewis was indeed wonderful.
Wallace Martin somewhat regretted not having started the recording on his mobile phone earlier.
Otherwise, he should have recorded it to let Lyke Zhekova hear it later.
Lyke Zhekova would certainly be happy.
When Lyke Zhekova was happy, he would definitely reward him with something!
Although now it was too late to record, Wallace Martin was fully attentive, determined to remember every single word Manager Thompson said without missing a thing!
“Moreover, she and Jacob Zahn happen to be the two candidates to replace my position,” Manager Thompson said, thinking about what CEO Lin had just said.
...
She was also about to enter the company’s management layer.
So CEO Lin hadn’t kept Jacob Zahn’s issues from her either.
Manager Thompson really hadn’t expected that Jacob Zahn would secure partnerships through such despicable means.
Then Manager Thompson couldn’t help but question how Jacob Zahn secured those contracts in the past.
With this, Jacob Zahn could not possibly take over her position.
Otherwise, who knows how much turmoil he would cause in the Business Department in the future.
“Peggy Lewis’s abilities and efforts are unquestionable.
In fact, if it weren’t for Jacob Zahn securing the partnership with Majestic, I had intended to recommend Peggy Lewis to take over my position,” Manager Thompson said.
At this point, CEO Lin also felt a bit awkward.
Because Jacob Zahn had landed the partnership with Majestic, he had personally led Jacob Zahn there, also with the intention of letting Jacob Zahn take over the Business Department manager position.
Who knew Jacob Zahn would stir up such troubles, leaving him in a rather disgraceful position.
This also made him seem lacking in judgment.
Look at Manager Thompson, from the very beginning, her favorable candidate was Peggy Lewis.
This made CEO Lin dislike Jacob Zahn even more.
Now, Jacob Zahn was completely out of the running for the manager position.
As for future promotions, it’s estimated that he wouldn’t have a chance either.
However, he could still stay in the company.
Although his methods were disgraceful, he still managed to secure quite a few contracts.
If he was willing to use these disgraceful means, the company had no objections.
After all, it’s the company that earns money, the company didn’t stand to lose anything.
CEO Lin thought about this.
“So, this time, I want to recommend Peggy Lewis to take charge,” Manager Thompson said.
With this partnership as the foundation, Peggy Lewis would certainly be able to take over her position.
“Manager Thompson, by your expression, you seem hesitant.
Is there a problem?” Wallace Martin observed carefully.
Manager Thompson said, “I hope to give this opportunity to Peggy Lewis.
However…
this originally in charge of by Jacob Zahn.
Suddenly taking it from him and giving it to Peggy Lewis, it will definitely stir up some bad comments in the company.”
“Throughout this matter, Peggy Lewis is innocent.
She did not snatch this partnership from Jacob Zahn’s hands, nor did she falsely accuse or report Jacob Zahn.
From the beginning to the end, she knew nothing.
But if she takes over, even saying that she got a big bargain would be putting it nicely.
There may be even more gossip, saying that she did not choose her means, that she sabotages fellow colleagues, steals colleagues’ deals, and so on.”
Manager Thompson hesitated, “This is not good for Peggy Lewis.”
Wallace Martin’s impression of Manager Thompson improved.
He thought that Peggy Lewis was indeed lucky to have such a considerate superior.
CEO Lin, however, carelessly waved his hand and said, “What’s the issue?
Now that she has benefited, can’t she bear a little slander?”
“Besides, it’s also a test of her abilities.
If she’s as capable as you say, she can’t endure even these idle talks?” CEO Lin was feeling quite bad because of his poor judgment, he did not particularly target Peggy Lewis but certainly vented some of his frustration.
Wallace Martin’s expression cooled down a bit.
He made a mental note to tell the President about this when he returned.
Now he couldn’t openly support Peggy Lewis.
Otherwise, Peggy Lewis would be even more misunderstood.
Manager Thompson kept silent, somewhat worrying about Peggy Lewis.
After all, the contract was incredibly huge.
Everyone in the company knew about it.
Once Peggy Lewis took over, it would indeed have a tremendous impact.
But on this side, CEO Lin had already made an affirmation, “Alright, if you think Peggy Lewis is suitable, then let it be her!”.
After CEO Lin spoke with the demeanor of a general manager, he turned his head and smiled at Wallace Martin, “Mr.
Martin, what do you think?”
Originally, Lyke Zhekova asked him to come and see the partnership over to Peggy Lewis.
Therefore, Wallace Martin had no objection and nodded, saying: “Fine, if Manager Thompson says that this Peggy Lewis is good, I’ll naturally be at ease.”
“When I return, I will report the result of this matter to our CEO.” Wallace Martin got up, ready to take his leave, “That being the case, let Peggy Lewis take over as soon as possible.
Let her come directly to contact me.”
Wallace Martin took out his business card, but didn’t give it to CEO Lin.
Given that CEO Lin just now didn’t care about Peggy Lewis and even somewhat intended to let Peggy Lewis take the blame, Wallace didn’t give him his business card!
Wallace Martin handed his business card to Manager Thompson, saying “Manager Thompson, please give this card to Peggy Lewis when you return, and let her contact me directly.”
Don’t let CEO Lin accompany her to the negotiation, he didn’t want to negotiate with CEO Lin.
CEO Lin frowned slightly in response.
What did Wallace Martin mean by this?
Did he not want him to interfere?
Wallace Martin was indeed afraid that CEO Lin might not understand his hint.
In Wallace Martin’s eyes, CEO Lin was sometimes rather slow to catch on.
“CEO Lin, let Peggy Lewis contact me personally after this.
It’s not convenient for the CEO of your company to personally negotiate a partnership, it makes Majestic look too important, and it’s not a good look.” Wallace Martin said.
CEO Lin finally felt somewhat relieved.
Thinking that such a large company like Majestic was so cautious, it was no wonder they became such a large company.
CEO Lin acknowledged that he had learned something.
Wallace Martin knew, CEO Lin was rather petty.
Although he hadn’t had dealings with CEO Lin before,
But through today’s conversation, Wallace Martin had already roughly figured out CEO Lin’s character.
“Since it’s settled, I’ll take my leave.” Wallace Martin said politely, “I have troubled CEO Lin today.”
“No, no, no, you’re too polite.” CEO Lin waved his hands hurriedly.
“I’ll see you out,” CEO Lin said to Wallace Martin.
“There’s no need to be so courteous.” Wallace Martin said, “CEO Lin, you carry on with your work.”
CEO Lin still thought Wallace Martin was being polite and wanted to insist.
But Wallace Martin had already left the office, stopping CEO Lin: “CEO Lin, really, don’t be so polite.
If you do this, it will make me feel guilty.
If it gets to our CEO that you personally saw me out, I will be reprimanded.”