Chapter 70 Team Building
Sarah blushed and looked down. "Yeah, I think I’m really in love. I miss him all the time."
She playfully patted Elizabeth’s arm. "It’s your fault! Back in school, you were always around. Now, you get marries suddenly and I’m lonely."
Elizabeth felt a pang of guilt. "I’m sorry, Sarah. I haven’t been around much lately."
Sarah burst out laughing. "Elizabeth, you’re so gullible! I'm just messing with you. I just want to be in a relationship. David’s a good guy. He might not have money, but he’s really considerate."
Sarah's tone became serious, "Do you mind me being with David? I know he once deceived you to help a friend. I don't know the specifics, but I understand it must have hurt you."
Elizabeth squeezed her hand gently. "Sarah, I just want you to be happy. If David makes you happy, that’s all that matters. Don’t worry about me. Michael and I don’t even know what’s next for us. Seeing you happy makes me happy, too."
After they washed up, it was late. They chatted a bit more before falling asleep.
The next day, Elizabeth headed to the office.
In the CEO’s office, she reviewed the improvement plan for The Jones Group that Samuel had given her.
She called the secretary’s office and scheduled a meeting with the senior executives at 10:00 in the conference room.
At 10:00 AM, Elizabeth sat in the conference room, facing the hopeful eyes of the senior executives.
Word had spread that Zenith Investments was about to invest in The Jones Group, and everyone was feeling optimistic.
The company had been running as usual, but there was an underlying sense of insecurity among the employees.
Now, with a big investment company like Zenith stepping in, bankruptcy seemed off the table.
Elizabeth could sense the relief in the room. "I’ve had a few talks with Mr. Taylor from Zenith Investments. He’s planning to invest $500 million in The Jones Group for the new system’s development and the company’s future operations," she announced.
Everyone had heard the rumors but couldn't be sure. Now, hearing it straight from Elizabeth, they were thrilled.
Elizabeth continued, "But remember, this is just a preliminary intention. We haven't finalized anything yet. Things could still change."
One of the vice presidents, barely containing his excitement, said, "Ms. Jones, what could change? If Zenith Investments wants to invest, let's draft the contract and sign it ASAP. We can't afford to wait!"
Another vice president chimed in, "Yeah, the new system's development has been delayed too long. Ms. Jones, please prioritize this investment and show Zenith our commitment!"
Just then, the secretary knocked on the conference room door.
"Ms. Jones, your phone's been ringing," she said, handing Elizabeth her phone.
Elizabeth frowned. "I'm in a meeting. I'll call back later."
The secretary didn't leave. "Ms. Jones, it's Mr. Taylor from Zenith Investments."
Everyone's eyes widened, and the room buzzed with nervous whispers.
"Mr. Taylor's call? Is he pulling out?" someone murmured.
"Who knows? The Jones Group has a huge funding gap. How many people in Aurora Bay are willing to invest in us?" an executive asked.
"I heard Mr. Taylor's from Atheria. Maybe he doesn't get our situation yet," another replied.
Elizabeth took the phone and stepped outside to answer it.
Samuel's gentle voice came through. "Am I interrupting?"
He always had this gentlemanly vibe that made him hard to dislike, unlike his arrogant sister, Margaret.
Elizabeth replied, "No, I'm just in a meeting with the senior execs, discussing your investment in The Jones Group."
Samuel chuckled. "You’re reliable as always. That’s reassuring."
He then mentioned wanting to organize a team-building event.
"The Jones Group’s employees need a morale boost and stronger team unity. This event could help deepen bonds and give them a sense of belonging," Samuel explained.
He asked for Elizabeth’s opinion.
Elizabeth said, "You're the one investing. If you think it's a good idea, I'll take it seriously."
Samuel replied, "I still need the group leader's input. Since you agree, I'll have my assistant draft a detailed plan and send it over. If you’re okay with it, we can sign and implement it."
Since Samuel had said so, Elizabeth felt she could no longer object, so she agreed.
After hanging up, she returned to the conference room and shared the news. "Mr. Taylor just called and suggested a team-building event to boost morale and unity. I agreed. It’ll give our employees a stronger sense of belonging and a chance to relax."
The senior executives were visibly relieved and happy.
"Great! It seems Mr. Taylor is genuinely interested in investing in our company!" one executive smiled.
"This means our group is saved! Our new system won’t go to waste," another added excitedly.
Elizabeth said, "Since this investment is all about our new system, I need the R&D team to whip up a detailed funding plan so we can tweak the cooperation contract accordingly."
The R&D managers were on board right away, "Sure thing, we'll get right on it."
Elizabeth went on, "About the team-building event, the weather's been pretty lousy lately, so outdoor activities are a no-go. Let's aim for next weekend. That'll give everyone some time to prep and maybe grab some new clothes."
Everyone chuckled at Elizabeth's joke.
After setting the date, Elizabeth shot a message to Samuel.
Samuel had already locked down the location.
The team-building event was set for the last weekend of the month. Samuel picked a spot on a hill outside Aurora Bay.