Chapter 845
Oscar and Quentin, both in their fifties, just had that vibe that screamed authority. Lester and Maurice, in their thirties, didn't stand a chance next to them.
But Haley? She didn't even flinch. She just smiled and said, "You are my grandpa's go-to guys. I'll seriously think about what you said."
"The resort project could make some cash, but it's nothing compared to the petrochemical gig," Oscar said, his voice all serious. "Ms. Deross, treat this as a practice run. Don't get distracted."
Haley's smile faded. "Oscar, are you telling me to back off from the successor race?"
"Ms. Deross, Oscar's just keeping it real," Quentin chimed in. "Ms. Evans has a lot of pull in the group, and with Ms. Lumi backing her, you can't compete. Instead of fighting a losing battle, focus on what you can gain from this project."
Haley smirked. "Interesting advice, but not what I need right now. If you two aren't here to help me win, then get out. I don't need people who lack confidence."
Oscar and Quentin's faces turned dark. They were Bark's top guys, even Hollis had to show them respect, but Haley was straight-up telling them to leave.
Growing up outside, Haley didn't care about playing nice.
"Since Ms. Deross has spoken, no point in us sticking around," Quentin said, getting up.
Oscar added, "Ms. Deross, remember what we said today when you lose."
They walked out, one after the other.
Bryan looked worried. "Haley, is it really okay to let them go like that?"
Lester nodded. "Oscar and Quentin have worked their way up. They're experienced. With their help, the resort project could be more efficient and maybe even beat Ms. Evans' project."
Haley chuckled. "Too bad they had no intention of helping."
Oscar and Quentin might be loyal to Bark, but they knew Hollis and Ava were the future of Lumi Group, so they wouldn't risk crossing Hollis.
Keeping those two around with their own agendas wouldn't help Haley at all.
With just four people left in the office, Lester and Maurice started throwing out ideas, giving Haley a better grasp of the project.
She said calmly, "Tomorrow, we'll check out the site. That's it for today."
They wrapped up the meeting and headed out together.
As they turned the corner near the conference room, they heard voices.
About twenty minutes earlier, Oscar and Quentin had gone to chat with Hollis. The three of them were laughing and joking, clearly tight.
Bryan's face darkened. "Those two have been in Hollis' pocket for a while. I need to tell Grandpa."
"Childish," Haley shot him a glance. "Only kids tattle. Adults handle their business."
Bryan blushed. "I'm not a kid anymore."
"Then show some strength and make Oscar and Quentin regret it," Haley said calmly. "Don't wear your anger on your face. Let's go."
Lester and Maurice exchanged a look and followed Haley, walking past without a second glance.
"Hollis, not busy?" Haley smiled. "Oscar and Quentin are here too. Thought you were gonna talk to my grandpa."
Her words made the three of them look super uncomfortable.
As Bark's guys, Oscar and Quentin should have kept their distance from the headquarters' crew. Yet, they still ended up aligned with Hollis.
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