Ch. 251..260

Chapter 251

Fiona couldn't comprehend the situation. She explained, "I am proposing to give you shares. With your existing 15% stake plus the additional shares I'm offering, you'd become the largest shareholder in Rhodes Enterprises"

Seeing that Audrey still wasn't moved, Fiona added, "Besides, I'm not asking for your money. It's such a good deal, like winning the lottery. Why would you say no?" Audrey looked at Fiona with a blank expression, a hint of sarcasm in her eyes.

She said, "I'm not interested in winning the lottery, but holding a hot potato isn't a good idea. If those shares were really so valuable, why would you want to give them to me? I guess they've already ended up in Eliza's pocket, right?" Audrey wasn't that foolish.

For years, Rhodes Enterprises had been losing money every year, and the shares were practically worthless.

Besides, it was questionable whether Fiona still held those shares.

Fiona didn't know how to retort to Audrey.

Lowering her eyes, Fiona racked her brain to find something that might appeal to Audrey.

But before she could think of anything, Audrey scrutinized her with a cold gaze and said, "If I'm not wrong, Albert divorced you to leave you with nothing, right?"

The last bit of her dignity was ruthlessly stripped away, leaving Fiona looking somewhat pale.

"You're wrong. We've been together for decades. He won't be so cruel to me," Fiona said.

Fiona didn't know whether she was arguing with Audrey or trying to persuade herself. Her voice grew softer until even she lacked the confidence to continue her words.

Audrey examined the injuries on Fiona's face and shook her head.

Then she said, "Are you still fooling yourself? Be realistic. Based on what I know about Albert, I advise you to let go of any hopes for the company shares. You won't receive a single cent from the Rhodes family's existing assets either." Fiona turned pale and trembled, saying, "But he cheated first. If he's really going to leave me with nothing, I can just sue him."

Hearing this, Audrey felt a bit sorry for Fiona.

Audrey lowered her gaze and gently shook her head, saying calmly, "Do you really think Albert, who shows up with his mistress everywhere, would be afraid of you suing him?"

"What... What do you mean?" Fiona asked with confusion.

Audrey said, "He's already planned everything out. Even if you sue him, you still won't get any money."

Fiona asked blankly, "Do you know something?"

Her eyes were filled with disbelief, and she held onto a last thread of hope, believing Albert couldn't be that cruel.

Audrey glanced at Fiona. Without hesitation, she said, "The Rhodes family assets were mostly transferred away over the years. Moreover, he secretly diverted over 15 million dollars from the company funds."

ion changed dramatically as she stared at Audrey in horror, her eyes wide open.

Audrey added, "The funds were transferred during your marriage. If you cannot demonstrate that they were not used for joint living expenses, post-divorce, you will not only be denied any assets but will also be liable to share over 15 million in debts with him." "No! That's impossible. How could this be?" Fiona jumped up from the couch and shouted.

Suddenly, she lunged forward and grabbed Audrey's shoulders hard with a fierce expression.

Fiona screamed, "You're lying to me, aren't you? Audrey, you can deceive me with something like this. I can't take it. I'll lose my mind!"

She looked at Audrey with hopeful eyes, longing to hear the answer she wanted.

However, Audrey just looked at Fiona calmly, which sent shivers down Fiona's spine.

The

 

Chapte

252

 

Fiona saw her wild reflection in Audrey's eyes and suddenly screamed like she'd gone mad, grabbing her hair.

The realization that Albert might have cheated on her over ten years ago completely shattered Fiona.

She collapsed in despair to the floor like a puppet with its strings cut.

After all these years as a wealthy socialite, Fiona couldn't bear the thought of losing her title as Mrs. Rhodes and her luxurious lifestyle, despite catching Albert cheating.

Fiona just wanted Audrey to teach that clueless mistress a harsh lesson, ensuring she'd never dare pursue Albert again.

However, Fiona never anticipated that Albert had betrayed her long ago, transferred all the assets, and accumulated a substantial debt.

Fiona murmured, "Audrey, did you make up this lie to deceive me because I favored Eliza?"

Even at this stage, Fiona still refused to accept the truth.

Before Audrey could say anything, there was a knock on the door

Audrey glanced down at Fiona, still sitting on the floor, and said "Come in."

Then Emily entered with a stack of documents in her hands.

She saw Fiona, who was usually proud but now looked disheveled, sitting hopelessly on the floor as others scrutinized her.

Emily hid her mixed feelings, trying to keep it professional as she handed the documents to Audrey. "Here's the information you requested," said Emily.

Audrey looked down as she took the documents, calmly saying, "Thanks. You may leave now."

Emily said nothing and left.

Then Audrey tossed the documents in front of Fiona and said, "I knew you wouldn't believe me easily, so I prepared these documents ahead of time for you. Take a good look." Staring at the documents in front of her, Fiona became fearful.

She didn't dare to read them.

After a long time, Fiona gritted her teeth and, trembling, reached out to pick up the documents, slowly flipping through them.

The further she read, the paler her face became. She almost bit through her lip, trying her best to contain her anger.

When Fiona saw the records of those assets being transferred one by one, she completely lost it and kicked over the small table in front of her with a scream.

Audrey stepped back just in time to avoid getting hurt.

Fiona, panting heavily, swung the documents in her hands and demanded sharply, "Who is this Felix? Why did Albert transfer all the assets to him through his offshore account?" Fiona couldn't accept that Albert had long been prepared to leave her with nothing.

It was even more unbearable that Albert had transferred the money to someone else.

Half of that money was supposed to be Fiona's.

Watching Fiona in her mix of sadness and anger, Audrey sighed helplessly.

In the past, Fiona had been overly sheltered.

That was why she couldn't even think rationally and went crazy when faced with even minor troubles.

It was no surprise that Albert kept Fiona, who was so naive, in the dark for so many years without her noticing anything. Audrey looked at Fiona sympathetically and asked softly, "What do you think their relationship could be?" Fiona repeated the name in her heart, 'Felix Rhodes...

'Albert Rhodes..."

Suddenly, Fiona's expression changed dramatically as she realized something, yet she denied it to herself and refused to accept it. She screamed, "I don't know!" Audrey scoffed.

4

Even now, Fiona was not willing to believe the truth.

It seemed that unless Fiona was told the harshest truth, she wouldn't really make up her mind to go against Albert.

Audrey steeled herself and carefully pronounced every word, "Felix's mother is Zara Walker. He's Albert's illegitimate son, and he's eighteen."

 

Chapter 253

When Fiona heard Audrey's words, she almost couldn't catch her breath.

She clutched her chest, wincing in pain. Her shocked expression, however, seemed to imply that she had been anticipating this all along.

Audrey had anticipated that her words would devastate Fiona, but she no longer felt obligated to be Fiona's protector.

If Audrey didn't reveal the dirty truth to Fiona, Fiona would eventually be destroyed by Albert:

Audrey didn't tell Fiona everything to help her.

She just didn't want Albert to have it too easy.

Audrey wasn't sure how long it took before Fiona snapped out of her shock.

She stared blankly at Audrey and weakly asked, "When did you find out?"

"Six years ago," Audrey replied, her tone as calm as ever.

Fiona's eyes widened in disbelief as she asked, "Six years ago... Is that why you suddenly switched from your favorite design major to economics? Did you change your major because you discovered Albert had an illegitimate child?" At this point, Audrey didn't have to deny it, so she quietly nodded.

Fiona stared at Audrey, blurting out, "Why didn't you tell me?"

Fiona couldn't believe that Audrey hadn't told her about it earlier.

For years, Fiona had believed she was a happy wife and mother.

Now, she wondered, 'Why did Audrey keep me in the dark and deceive me for so many years?'

"Would it have helped?" Audrey asked with an emotionless sneer

Fiona blamed Albert for being merciless and the other woman for being shameless, and now she accused Audrey of keeping things from her.

Fiona indignantly said, "If you'd told me, at least we could have faced it together and come up with a plan. If I'd known earlier, how could Albert have transferred all the assets?"

Faced with Fiona's self-righteous accusations, Audrey felt utterly disappointed.

Audrey let out a mocking laugh and said, "Are you sure that if you had known earlier, you'd have divorced Albert instead of agreeing to let him bring his illegitimate son home for you to raise? "Stop deceiving yourself; you'd never leave Albert because you crave the privileged life too much."

Fiona didn't know what to say. She almost forgot that Audrey used to know her better than

anyone else.

After a long pause, Fiona said awkwardly, "Even if I had to raise his illegitimate child, it's better than having nothing left."

Audrey believed Fiona was truly hopeless.

The last sympathy within Audrey had vanished, and she said coldly, "Are you sure Zara would let you raise her son? You're not a teenager anymore; please use some common sense, will you?"

Audrey didn't allow Fiona a chance to reply before she continued. "Albert always blamed you for not providing him with a son. He believed his considerable wealth would be left without an heir, so he pursued having a son with someone else, "What have you done? You thought you were the happiest woman alive, completely vulnerable to Albert. You remained in the blissful illusion he created, like an innocent child.

"I hinted on multiple occasions that you should make plans for your own future. You agreed with enthusiasm, but ultimately, you placed your complete trust in him.

"What's even more absurd is that I cared for you and didn't want you to be exploited by them. I made great efforts to become stronger, doing everything in my power to protect the company and fight for the benefits you were entitled to. "Yet, you betrayed me by spending money to assist in her efforts against me."

Eliz

Audrey, her face grave, abruptly stepped forward and, fixing her gaze on Fiona, spoke with stern authority, "Mrs. Rhodes, I act by my conscience at all times. You have no grounds to reproach me."

Fiona was overwhelmed with humiliation. She never imagined that Audrey had silently sacrificed so much for the family and for her behind the scenes.

However, Fiona was never grateful, and she was even blinded by anger and blamed Audrey.

Fiona felt very guilty towards Audrey and was completely disappointed in Albert.

Fiona took a deep breath and made up her mind. She said, "Audrey, I was wrong. I'm sorry. If you're willing to let go of the past and help me, I can give you everything I have."

+5

Fiona knew there was no need to save b

marriage.

In that case, she had to take back what was rightfully hers.

Chapter 254

Audrey was silent for a moment before calmly asking, "How do you want me to help you?"

Fiona said urgently, "I want to divorce Albert, but I don't want to leave with nothing. Audrey, since you've already found out what he had done, you surely know how to handle him, right?" Audrey shook her head slightly and said, "Sorry, I can't help you

Fiona's hopeful look dimmed instantly. She asked, "Why? Albert wants to kick you out of the company and leave you with nothing. Wouldn't it be better if we teamed up?" Audrey replied calmly, "I'll handle my own issues. As for yours, no one can do it for you."

Fiona blinked, gradually understanding Audrey's point. She fiddled with her fingers, doubting herself as she said, "I... I can't do it on my own, I can't beat him..."

Fiona knew her own limits. Without anyone's help, she couldn't possibly deal with someone as cunning as Albert.

Audrey stared at Fiona and said, "You've been married to him for so many years, so no one knows him better than you.

"The sharpest blade is always with the one closest to you, and if you use your blade right, Albert won't be able to beat you. this point, are you still hesitating?" "Of course not," Fiona instinctively denied.

Even though she was deeply in love with Albert, she realized what kind of person he truly was.

All the talk about love and romance was just hot air.

Only the money in hand was the real deal.

If Fiona didn't want to end up broke for the rest of her life, she would have to steel herself against Albert.

Audrey smiled and pointed at the documents scattered on the floor, saying, "You can take these materials with you. I don't need to teach you how to handle them, do I?" "I understand," Fiona said, her mind in turmoil.

The series of blows felt like they had aged her by ten years in an instant.

But Fiona's tone finally became firm.

She picked up the papers from the ground and gave Audrey a serious look. Then she walked out of the meeting room.

After that, Audrey didn't get involved in Fiona's matter anymore

Audrey kept her usual routine. When she got home after work, she had meals made by Alistair. She frequently spent time wandering around the neighborhood with Sunny. Sun

was becoming less shy around strangers, but he still wasn't willing to speak.

Even though he moved here quite some time ago, he rarely went out and often preferred being alone.

Upon observing Sunny's tendency to isolate himself, Audrey felt concerned, yet she was aware that patience was essential. Fortunately, she had a lot of patience now.

At

Two days later, Audrey got a call from Fiona.

"Audrey, he's in jail!" exclaimed Fiona over the phone.

Albert was apprehended due to the misappropriation of company funds.

Audrey wasn't surprised when she heard the news.

On that day, Audrey crushed all of Fiona's hopes, doing so only to give Fiona the strength to send Albert to jail.

5/%

Hearing no response from Audrey, Fiona added, "I've also submitted the documents you gave me to the court, applying for asset freezing and divorce arbitration." Since Audrey started earning money, Albert hadn't spent any money on Fiona, which conveniently now served as proof of Fiona's innocence.

If the divorce arbitration proceeded smoothly, the embezzled funds would not be considered Fiona's debt.

However, Zara and Felix weren't so lucky.

To avoid losing assets in the divorce, Albert, persuaded by Zara, transferred all the assets to Felix's account, including the 15 million dollars in the company funds. Now with Albert convicted, all of Zara and Felix's assets had to be used to pay off the debts.

Thinking of this, Fiona felt incredibly relieved.

The pain she had gone through these past few days was finally worth it.

After listening to Fiona ramble on for a while, Audrey finally replied, "Congratulations."

Fiona finally smiled and said earnestly, "Audrey, thanks for providing the evidence. My promise to you will always stand."

 

Chapter 255

Fiona realized that as long as she gave everything she got from the divorce to Audrey, Audrey would definitely not abandon her.

Audrey didn't respond to Fiona's words. She talked to Fiona briefly and hung up the phone.

At this time, Alistair walked up from behind wearing slippers and carrying a white scarf. He wrapped it around Audrey from behind and said, "It's getting a little chilly these days. Stay warm and don't catch a cold."

Audrey lifted her hand to feel the soft, fluffy scarf and turned around with a shy smile, biting her lip gently. She said, "Thank you."

Alistair raised his hand to adjust her scarf and tucked her stray hair behind her ear as he gently asked, "You don't look well. Did something happen?"

Audrey sighed, worried, and replied, "Albert ended up in jail. This news can't be kept secret, and the company must be in chaos today."

Those shareholders would definitely come to Audrey to ask for news.

Alistair didn't seem surprised at all. He just said calmly, "If you don't want to deal with it, then just don't go. Skipping work for one day won't make the company collapse."

In any case, it was merely a small company. If it were to fail, that would be the end of it.

As for why Albert ended up in jail, Alistair didn't care; he was only worried that Audrey might feel upset at work today.

Audrey grasped Alistair's concerns, yet she shook her head and declined firmly, "I cannot. I'm the sole person responsible for the work now. If I were to ease up, everything would collapse. It's all part of my plan. Although it's somewhat challenging, I am coping." Alistair had anticipated her answer. He sighed helplessly, playfully poking her forehead, and said with a chuckle, "You're such a workaholic."

Audrey smiled and, before leaving, stood on her tiptoes to kiss the corner of his lips.

Then, without waiting for Alistair to respond, she quickly shut the door and dashed off.

On the way to the office, Audrey got a call from Peter.

As soon as the call connected, Peter's anxious voice came through, "Audrey, we saw the news this morning about Albert being arrested. Will this trouble you?" Peter wasn't really concerned about what Albert had done to get arrested.

He just remembered that Audrey was still working at Rhodes Enterprises, and felt uneasy, afraid she might get caught up

the mess.

Feeling touched, Audrey reassured Peter, "Dad, he engaged in some illegal activities. It won't involve me. Don't worry." Hearing this, Peter felt relieved and sighed.

A few seconds later, Jessica took the phone from Peter, constantly murmuring thanks to the heavens. She told Audrey, "That's good. You really scared us, Audrey.

in

"Perhaps you should leave your job at Rhodes Enterprises. It seems like the company isn't going to last. Come home and rest for a couple of days. We will take care of you." 22:00 Wed, Dec 25

In the background, Trevor and Miles could faintly be heard over the phone, "And me, I can also earn money to support Audrey... I can start earning after I graduate." Hearing her family's caring and

I words, Audrey felt incredibly moved.

She usually wasn't sentimental, but now her eyes were a bit misty. She gently said, "It's okay, Mom. I know what I'm doing. Don't worry about me. Once I handle everything, I'll go home." Jessica smiled and replied, "Alright. We believe in you. Goodbye

At this time, Zara was pacing around anxiously like a cat on a hot tin roof.

As soon as she found out that Albert had been arrested, she quickly picked Felix up from school.

Felix sat in the passenger seat, still a bit confused. "Mom, where are we going? I have an exam this afternoon. Didn't you tell me to do well this time to make you and Dad proud?" he asked. Zara was driving the car, her hands still trembling slightly as they grasped the steering wheel.

She said, "Forget about the exam.

Our dad's in jail!"

Felix's eyes went wide in disbelief, his face turning pale as he asked in shock, "How could this happen... Is our money still safe?"

Without the money, Felix couldn't afford to stay at the costly school, nor could he display his designer attire and high-end vehicles to impress his peers.

 

Chapter 256

Zara slowly pulled the car over to the roadside, making sure no one was around.

Then she said, "Fiona has applied to the bank to freeze our assets. I consulted a lawyer, and it looks like we can't get the funds your dad transferred to us, and we have to share in his 15 million debt." Felix was stunned.

It meant that he had no money now.

He wondered what he could do.

He pondered, 'I'm Dad's only son. Am I really going to have to earn a living on my own?'

In a panic, Felix urged, "Mom, you have to think of something. We can't just sit here and do nothing!"

Zara slowly turned to Felix, a never-before-seen resolve and fierceness in her eyes. She said, "If I choose to leave your dad, will you think I'm cruel?"

Felix was momentarily taken aback.

Albert was a kind father and extremely good to Felix.

He would practically reach for the stars for Felix if he asked.

No matter how poorly Felix performed in academic study, Albert never once scolded him.

Honestly, even though Felix couldn't publicly return to the Rhodes family, he really loved Albert.

Hearing Zara's words all of a sudden left Felix completely at a loss for words.

Zara was quite agitated, suppressing her frustration and trying to speak patiently, "Felix, at this point, we can't be soft-hearted anymore.

"The lawyer says your dad is likely not getting out. Fiona went all out to report him herself. She's collected a lot of evidence. Even if he's released, he'll be totally broke." Hearing this, Felix suddenly clenched his hands into fists.

If Albert became a poor loser, Felix wouldn't be able to live the comfortable life he had been dreaming of.

To make matters worse, Felix would even be disdained by others because he was an illegitimate child.

In the past, people never dared to despise Felix's background because he was wealthy.

However, if Felix's support network were to collapse, resulting in a loss of wealth and influence, would those who once flattered him remain loyal?

The answer was pretty obvious.

Felix wasn't stupid. After a brief moment of shock, he quickly steeled himself and said, "Mom, I'll do whatever you say."

Zara ruffled his hair with relief and said, "That's right, good boy."

Felix managed a forceful smile. His mind was clearer now, and he asked with concern, "Mom, where are we going next? With our assets frozen and debts stacking up, are we also going to get caught?"

Felix definitely didn't want to get dragged down with Albert.

Zara chuckled and said, "Don't worry, I've had plans in place.

"From the day I got together with Albert, I knew he wasn't a dependable man. So, all these years, I've been planning a way out for us.

"Albert previously transferred money

to me. Apart from the funds

allocated for your education, I have invested the remainder in real estate and gold bars, which are safely stored in a secure deposit box. In

Riverdale alone, I possess five

I

properties located in prime areas.

"Although our bank account has been frozen by the bank, they are not yet aware of these properties.

"I have already made arrangements

to sell them at a reduced price, and we have received over 10 million dollars from the sales. With this amount, we can certainly begin a new life."

Felix was utterly stunned.

He never knew Zara had properties and gold bars; he had never even seen them.

After being silent in shock for a long time, Felix said blankly, "Will this work? They'll eventually track it back to us."

Zara gave a mysterious smile and silently took two passports out from the car's drawer.

Felix understood immediately and asked, "Are we going abroad?"

Zara replied, "Yes, I got the passports ready a while back. I originally planned for us to go on a family vacation overseas during your holiday. Now it just comes in handy. "We'll head straight to the airport and leave the country to find Alan. As long as we don't return, even if the police track us down, they won't be able to do anything to us." While Albert was cooperating with the investigation in prison, Zara had already boarded a plane to another country with Felix.

With the cars and houses sold, there was no way to recover the company funds that Albert had misappropriated.

However, Albert himself had no understanding of how serious the situation was.

Lying on the single bed in his cell, Albert was still dreaming about being released, kicking Fiona out, and officially recognizing Felix as part of the family. Thinking about the happy life he would have with Zara and Felix made him smile broadly.

Unfortunately, it wouldn't take long for that smile to fade.

 

Chapter 257

Albert was momentarily out of it when he heard the guard speak, "7552, someone comes to see you."

It wasn't until the guard rapped on his door with a metal baton, giving him a cold glare, that Albert snapped back to reality. "7552, come out!" shouted the guard. Albert glanced at the number on his badge, finally coming to his senses.

He stood up slowly, taking his time to tidy up his clothes, and followed the guard out.

The whole way, Albert acted like he was still the boss, strutting and trying to walk in front of the guard.

The guard was used to people like Albert and didn't pay him any attention.

Soon, Albert reached the visiting room and when he saw who was there to see him, his eyes blazed with anger.

Albert cursed, "Fiona, you bitch! How dare you show up here?"

Seeing Fiona seated calmly behind the glass, Albert erupted instantly, his expression twisted as if he wanted to tear her apart.

However, before Albert could reach the glass, two guards firmly pinned his shoulders down.

They warned him, "Stay still. No moving!"

Albert tried to struggle but ended up getting a solid hit on his back.

The sharp pain pulled Albert back to his senses.

He clenched his teeth in humiliation as the prison guards forced him into the chair. They cuffed him and put an old-fashioned phone in front of him.

Albert glared fiercely at Fiona through the glass and slowly picked up the phone.

Albert said, "Fiona, you heartless woman. How dare you report me? Are you trying to take me down? You wish!"

Albert had already planned an escape route. He believed that Zara and Felix would definitely find a way to bail him out.

Fiona looked at Albert quietly, smirking, "Are you still dreaming that Zara will come to rescue you?"

Albert saw Fiona's stern expression and suddenly felt a sense of unease.

With a mocking smile, Fiona remarked, "Too bad, you're going to be let down. Two hours ago, Zara left the country with your illegitimate son.

"She even purchased plane tickets to

Mystria. It's said that her ex, Alan Hamilton, currently resides there. Before departing, she sold all the real estate that was registered under Felix's name as well as her own, leaving you without a penny."

Albert's expression changed dramatically, and he shouted, "Nonsense. You can never fool me!"

Fiona asked, "Do you really not know what kind of person Zara is? She had a foreign boyfriend before she got with you. Don't tell me you never knew that."

Albert's vision blurred for a moment.

Zara claimed that she had completely cut ties with her ex, and Albert always believed her. However, as soon as Albert got into trouble, Zara sold off assets and fled the country with Felix. Thinking about everything, Albert felt his whole body go weak, almost fainting on the spot.

Fiona smirked, "You went through all that trouble to scheme against me just because I didn't give you a son, didn't you? Well, guess what, your son probably calls someone else 'dad'."

Albert's eyes blazed with anger, and he screamed, "Shut up, you bitch. It's all your fault!"

Fiona looked at Albert calmly and said, "Trying to blame me? You have only yourself to blame for this."

Ignoring Albert's look of despair and embarrassment, Fiona continued, "I've already given the court evidence of your affairs. Happy divorce, Albert." From now on, they would go their separate ways.

The moment Fiona walked out of the jail, she felt an incredible sense of relief.

She looked up at the sky, tears streaming down her face before she realized it.

However, this time, she cried not because she was sad.

Since Albert couldn't repay the embezzled company funds, the court auctioned off 35% of his shares in Rhodes Enterprises to pay his debts.

As soon as the news broke, other shareholders of Rhodes Enterprises couldn't remain calm.

Every shareholder feared they might end up stuck, so they hurried to sell their shares, even at a loss.

Audrey had foreseen this development long ago, and when the company slipped into chaos, she was the calmest one.

That evening, she called Claire, who she hadn't contacted in a long time.

Audrey said, "Claire, I need a favor from you."

 

Chapter 258

Choosing her words carefully, Audrey said, "I'd like to request an advance on my design fee from KioWave." Claire asked directly, "How much?"

As KioWave's chief designer, Audrey had brought immense profits to the company.

Requesting an advance on a design fee was not a big deal, and Claire had the authority to approve it for Audrey.

"15 million dollars," Audrey said in a lower voice.

It was her first time making such a request, and she felt a bit embarrassed. Without waiting for Claire to refuse, she quickly added, "I can deliver next quarter's new designs a month early and include two extra designs." Claire responded without much hesitation, "You can submit the new designs whenever you like. As for the 15 million dollars, I believe you can repay it, and your designs are invaluable.

"Just give me an account number, and the funds will be transferred to you in two hours."

Audrey sighed with relief and said, "Thank you."

With the 15 million dollars from KioWave, plus the 2 million dollars from the program, Audrey believed she could handle the crisis.

She could easily have asked Alistair for the 15 million dollars.

However, at the moment, Audrey was not interested in engaging in any financial transactions with him.

"Audrey, are you there?" asked Emily.

The urgent knocking on the door interrupted Audrey's thoughts.

After regaining her composure, Audrey raised her volume and said, "Come in."

Then Emily quickly opened the door and came in.

Emily reported, "Audrey, bad news! I just got word that the shareholders in the company are all in a rush to sell their shares."

Audrey replied calmly, "I know."

Emily said anxiously, "We can't get in touch with Darren now either. He's the largest shareholder in the company apart from Mr. Rhodes, and if he sells his shares like the others, our company will be in big trouble." Hearing Emily's words, Audrey couldn't help but sigh.

Long before Albert faced any issues, Darren had secretly sold the company's shares at a high price to Alistair.

There was no way Darren was going to show up now.

Audrey remained silent before

analyzing calmly, "Don't worry. The news about Albert being arrested is still trending online. Even if the small shareholders sell their shares, o one would dare to take the risk and buy them for now."

Worried, Emily stated, "But now the staff members are anxious. Many are talking about resigning and asking for compensation. If this goes on, we won't be able to manage it."

Audrey turned serious as she said

sharply, "Make a list of those eager to resign. Compensate them and let them go f they can't stand by the company during tough times, they should leave. But for those willing to stay, increase their salary by 10%."

"Okay, I'll get on it right away," Emily, feeling reassured, hurried off to send out the notices.

Two hours later, KioWave's 15 million dollars were credited to the account, and Audrey could finally breathe a sigh of relief.

First, Audrey quickly bought Albert's shares, which were used to settle debts, at a very low price.

Then she swiftly acquired ten percent of the personal shares from other shareholders.

In just half a day, Audrey had bought nearly 40% of Rhodes Enterprises' shares.

With her original shares combined, Audrey surpassed Alistair, becoming the largest shareholder of Rhodes Enterprises.

While Audrey's strict management style brought external calm to Rhodes Enterprises, there were still hidden undercurrents internally. Outwardly, everything seemed to have settled down quickly.

Upon the announcement of a 10%

pay raise, aside from a few

individuals who had already

resigned, the rest of the staff decided to stay for an additional month in anticipation of the salary increase.

When the employees occasionally gathered in small groups, they couldn't help but express their mixed feelings.

Someone said, "It's a good thing we have Ms. Rhodes; otherwise, we'd all be out of jobs right now."

Another remarked, "Yeah, I'm really glad we didn't choose the wrong side. Those who were with Mr. Rhodes' group are having a tough time at the office now." "Well, they brought this on themselves. It's their own fault for not recognizing the better option. I've got no sympathy for them," commented an employee. When Lina overheard the discussion, she took a small sip of her coffee and whispered, "That's no big deal. I've got some big news. Want to hear it?"

 

Chapter 259

"What is it?" Lina's coworkers' curiosity was completely piqued as they eagerly watched her.

Lina glanced around cautiously and said, "According to an insider, Ms. Rhodes is currently the largest shareholder in the company, holding 55% of the shares. "But there's a new shareholder with 40% of the shares, almost the same as Ms. Rhodes'."

Someone exclaimed, "40%? That's a lot, even more than Mr. Rhodes used to have."

Another commented, "Even if it's a lot, it shouldn't affect Ms. Rhodes' position, right?"

Someone expressed his concern, "What if this person opposes Ms. Rhodes as much as Mr. Rhodes did? Who do we side with then?"

Other employees replied, "Isn't it obvious? Of course, we side with Ms. Rhodes."

Someone remarked, "From now on, we should show her more respect."

"Who knows how long she can hold the title? What if this mysterious shareholder is more capable than her?" another said.

Most of the staff members believed that no matter how capable Audrey was, she was a married woman, and she would likely focus more on her family in the future. If they chose to side with Audrey again, they weren't sure if they would be as lucky as this time.

As they chatted, each person had their own thoughts.

Lina bit her lip and whispered, "Don't worry. We don't even know who this person is or what his background is. What if he's actually on the same side as Ms. Rhodes?" Hearing this, another blurted out, "Seriously? Could this new shareholder actually be Mr. Hayes from the Hayes Group?"

Someone else commented, "It's no big deal for Mr. Hayes to buy some shares. A few days ago, he even declared his feelings to Ms. Rhodes in the company.

"Now that the company's in trouble, it's possible he secretly bought shares to win Ms. Rhodes' favor."

An employee interjected, "I don't think it's him; I bet it's Logan from the Brightview Group."

"Oh, how come?" someone asked.

The employee replied, "Logan once publicly praised Ms. Rhodes' professional skills during the Brightview Group's anniversary. He certainly wouldn't just stand by and do nothing." This statement was quickly contradicted.

"That's impossible. Even though

Brightview Group and the company are partners now, they could still become competitors in the future. How could they possibly team up to start a company?" someone explained.

This view also sounded reasonable.

They kept speculating, but no one could convince anyone else.

Just then, a staff member named Wendy Myres said in a low voice, "Do you think there's a chance this mysterious major shareholder is Ms. Rhodes' husband?"

Hearing Wendy suggest the

company's mysterious major shareholder could be Audrey's

husband, someone immediatelet

refuted "No way! Everyone knows Ms. Rhodes' husband is justa freeloader, living off her."

Another echoed, "Yeah, Wendy, how could you even guess it might be Ms. Rhodes husband? How could an ordinary office worker own 40% of the company shares? Even with the recent market turmoil, there's no way he could afford that."

Just as the person finished speaking, someone outside said, "Ms. Rhodes and the new shareholder are here."

Just then, Audrey and Alistair walked in from outside.

They wore matching suits, looking like the perfect pair.

Someone commented, "It's no surprise that Ms. Rhodes' husband attracted her attention. His physique and appearance are truly flawless." "Ms. Rhodes' looks so cool today!" said someone.

"Wait a moment. Didn't they say Ms. Rhodes and the new shareholder are here? Where's the new shareholder?" asked an employee.

Another staff member murmured, "Could it be that Wendy guessed it right? Is the new shareholder really Ms. Rhodes' husband?"

Chapter 260

Everyone looked shocked upon hearing the remark.

Some still didn't believe it and immediately countered, "Impossible. That guy must have made a mistake."

If Audrey's husband was really that rich, why did he give fake flowers to her a few days ago?

The event even stirred a lot of discussion, but Audrey didn't clarify it.

Someone was so curious that they bravely stopped Emily to confirm.

A staff member asked, "Emily, didn't someone say the new shareholder has arrived? Why haven't we seen him?"

As soon as the question was asked, many people around turned to look at Emily, clearly curious.

Emily glanced around and said calmly, "Didn't you all see him earlier? He's already joined Ms. Rhodes in the meeting room."

The employees were shocked. It turned out that Audrey's husband was indeed the new shareholder.

Someone couldn't contain his excitement and exclaimed, "Is this some kind of blockbuster drama of the year?

"I thought Ms. Rhodes would be ousted by Mr. Rhodes, but she ended up becoming the largest shareholder, and her husband became the second biggest. Now they completely control Rhodes Enterprises." Emily smiled and said, "Such remarks are just between you guys. Don't let them get to outsiders. It may damage the company's reputation."

Hearing this, those who had previously called Audrey's husband a freeloader felt embarrassed immediately.

They whispered among themselves, "Understood. We will be cautious with our words."

Seeing their scared faces, Emily couldn't help but want to laugh.

Actually, Emily's reaction when she first learned about Audrey's husband's identity was much calmer than her colleagues'.

The news that Audrey's husband became the company's second-largest shareholder quickly became the talk of the office.

Audrey knew that many people were probably questioning the legitimacy of how Alistair got the shares. However, she didn't bother to explain. Instead, she had Emily notify all the executives for a meeting. Emily hesitated a bit and asked, "The sales director isn't in the office right now. Should I call him back?" Audrey replied, "Yes, call him back. We'll wait for him for thirty minutes."

"Got it," Emily said.

Emily was efficient, and it didn't take long for her to send out the notification.

The executives who got the meeting notification were completely confused.

They wondered what Audrey was trying to do.

She had just taken office and was calling a meeting.

They assumed she was trying to assert her authority immediately.

The company has gone through too many changes recently. The executives were once on the same level as Audrey.

However, Audrey had suddenly become their leader, and it was only natural they felt a bit unconvinced.

They were also puzzled as to why Audrey's husband had suddenly become the company's second-largest shareholder.

They wondered if Audrey was trying to boost her husband's image since she hated people suggesting that her husband relied on her. However, no one appreciated Alistair.

All of the top executives believed they were more experienced and capable than Alistair.

They thought he wasn't qualified to be the second-largest shareholder.

The management unanimously agreed that the shares Alistair owned were given to him by Audrey, not bought by him.

Therefore, none of the executives thought highly of Alistair.

Half an

hour later, the HR Director,

Sales Director, Technical Director Financial Director, and Marketing Director all headed to the meeting room. . FindNovel

wn

Pnet

Before going in, the Financial Director, Damian Hillary, stopped Emily to ask, "Emily, what is Ms. Rhodes trying to do by giving an outsider 40% of the company's shares? Is she planning to hand over the company?"

Emily smiled and said calmly, "Don't worry, Mr. Hillary. Ms. Rhodes will explain everything in the meeting."

Realizing Emily wouldn't reveal any useful information, Damian sighed in resignation and turned to discuss with the nearby directors.

As senior executives of the company, the directors were the primary beneficiaries of this pay raise. Even though the company's situation was unstable, they had no intention of resigning.

However, none of them wanted to be manipulated by Audrey.

While they hesitated, Audrey was feeling a bit uneasy too.

She wasn't concerned about the executives having hidden motives; she was worried about Alistair.

Resting her chin on one hand, Audrey looked at Alistair nervously and asked, "Are you sure you want to reveal your identity to these executives?"