Chapter 590 An Inspection Turned Surprise
The Valdemar Group, Eldoria Branch - Main Lobby
The soaring ceiling, bright lights, and polished marble floors of the Eldoria Branch lobby no longer held their usual relaxed atmosphere. Middle and upper management stood anxiously, their eyes repeatedly darting toward the entrance. The tension in the air was palpable, like the calm before a storm.
The lobby clock ticked loudly, each sound seeming to echo in their chests as their heartbeats synchronized with its rhythm, each beat bringing a new wave of anticipation and anxiety.
Suddenly, two figures appeared at the entrance.
A man in a dark, impeccably tailored suit with a refined tie moved with confident strides, exuding an air of distinction. His assistant followed closely behind, carrying a black briefcase, a subtle smile playing on his lips.
The managers rushed to greet Albert and Vincent, extending hands and pleasantries. "Mr. Valdemar, welcome to our Eldoria branch! It's truly an honor to have you personally visit us," one man said, his face beaming with an eager smile.
"Welcome, Mr. Valdemar. We hope your journey wasn't too tiresome," another added.
Albert acknowledged their greetings with a slight nod, his expression remaining impassive.
The others stepped forward to pay their respects, the air thick with formality and forced enthusiasm. The entourage then escorted Albert and Vincent upstairs to the executive lounge.
As soon as Albert and Vincent disappeared from the lobby, the front desk erupted with chatter. Several receptionists huddled together, whispering excitedly, their faces lit with the glow of fresh gossip.
"This isn't even a significant date on the calendar. Why would Mr. Valdemar show up without notice? The welcome seemed rather underwhelming," one receptionist remarked.
"Right? I heard Eldoria branch has always been the neglected child of the head office. No one's inspected us in years. Why would Mr. Albert Valdemar suddenly appear?" another wondered.
"He looks exactly like Mr. David Valdemar. So handsome," a third sighed.
A woman nearby, seemingly privy to inside information, gave them a knowing look. "He never visits, and now he shows up unannounced. Don't you smell something fishy?"
The receptionists leaned in closer. "What? Tell us!"
"Since Mr. David Valdemar left Eldoria, there's been a massive personnel shake-up. Isn't it obvious that Mr. Albert Valdemar is here to check how his people are settling in?"
"His people? What do you mean?"
"He's reshuffled the entire Eldoria branch. Everyone who's still here is loyal to him!"
The group exchanged meaningful glances, though as mere receptionists, such corporate politics were beyond their usual concerns.
"Who would have thought brothers could wage such business wars?" one mused.
"We're just here for the show and our paychecks," another shrugged.
"Exactly, just enjoying the drama!"
"It's a shame neither Mr. Albert Valdemar is based at Eldoria permanently. Having such eye candy around would certainly make coming to work more enjoyable."
The mention of David and Albert's handsome features instantly animated the receptionists.
"It really is a shame. They could at least leave one of them here."
"What's even more unfortunate is that with two Mr. Valdemars, neither could be mine."
"Dream on," her colleague laughed.
Albert and Vincent conducted a meeting and then toured the company building.
They surveyed their surroundings, quickly taking in the emotions and atmosphere of those present. A subtle tension permeated the air, with each person displaying a different expression, all carefully guarded as if harboring private thoughts.
After completing their circuit, Albert and Vincent exchanged a knowing glance.
David's once-loyal assistants, those who had worked tirelessly for him, were nowhere to be seen.
Albert's visit to the Eldoria branch today had been unannounced—essentially a surprise inspection.
It would have been impossible to remove David's subordinates just before his arrival, which meant his orders had been faithfully executed by his people.
This realization brought a sense of relief to Albert and Vincent, their expressions visibly softening.
Albert glanced at his watch. "What's next on the agenda?"
Vincent nodded respectfully. "Mr. Valdemar, we're scheduled to inspect the Valdemar Group's shopping mall next."
The middle managers standing by immediately snapped to attention. "We'll arrange transportation and accompany you on the inspection!"
Albert gave them a cursory glance without responding, then turned and strode away. Vincent and the managers promptly followed with deferential haste.
Albert, accompanied by Vincent and a retinue of subordinates, entered the bustling shopping mall for inspection. His tailored suit and commanding presence drew attention as he walked with authority and purpose.
The subordinates behind him were visibly tense, carefully observing Albert's expressions, worried that this surprise visit might expose any issues within the mall.
While everyone was scrutinizing every corner of the mall, Albert suddenly stopped in his tracks.
The subordinates exchanged puzzled and nervous glances.
Vincent also looked confused as he turned to Albert.
Albert's lips curved into a slight smile, as if remembering something, and without hesitation, he walked into a luxury jewelry store that had caught his eye.
The subordinates were bewildered but dutifully followed him inside.
As Albert entered the luxury jewelry store, his gaze wandered over the display cases, seemingly imagining the recipient's surprised expression upon receiving such a gift.
Behind him, everyone finally understood. They exchanged knowing glances, their faces bearing subtle smirks. Clearly, Albert was preparing a surprise for Yvette!
Albert's eyes settled on a necklace with a pendant featuring a brilliantly clear sapphire that seemed to capture the radiance of stars.
For some reason, Albert could suddenly picture Yvette wearing it.
"Please wrap this one for me," he pointed to the necklace.
"Certainly, sir!"
Vincent smiled. "Mr. Valdemar, how thoughtful of you. Mrs. Valdemar will undoubtedly be delighted with your gift."
Albert maintained his composed expression, though a hint of a smile played in his deep eyes. He remained silent.
One of the executives behind him seized the opportunity to curry favor. "Mr. Valdemar, your devotion to Mrs. Valdemar is admirable. We subordinates can only look on with envy."
His words prompted others to join in with flattery.
"Who would have thought Mr. Valdemar had such a tender side!"
"So the inspection was just a cover for preparing a surprise for Mrs. Valdemar!"
"Mr. Valdemar is really committed to this little surprise!"
Albert suddenly looked up, his piercing gaze landing on the man who had suggested the inspection was a pretense.
He furrowed his brow slightly. "Excuse me?"
The subordinates immediately sobered, their expressions turning serious. None wanted to risk offending Albert with such jokes.
Albert, feigning sternness, asked, "Who said my inspection was a pretense?"
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