Chapter 519 Managing the Company
The elderly shareholder's eyes lit up. "Mrs. Diana Percy is right. So young and already so impressive. No wonder Mr. Charles Percy chose her."
"Just because you understand business doesn't mean you can run a multinational corporation," Zachary sneered. "With the global economy tanking, the Percy Group needs a strong leader, not a housewife."
'Diana is far from a housewife,' Nolan thought silently.
Facing his skepticism, Diana calmly opened her tablet.
She knew before attending the meeting that she wouldn't easily convince everyone. Instead of wasting words, she decided to show her true capabilities.
"This is my transitional management plan. First, stabilize core business and halt all non-strategic investments. Second, optimize cash flow by selling off some non-core assets. Third..."
She clearly outlined ten points, each accompanied by detailed data and execution plans. The shareholders' initial doubts gradually turned into serious attention.
"The most important thing," Diana concluded, "is that I will ensure Charles's hard work is not taken over by anyone in any form. Once he recovers, power will be immediately returned to him. Mr. Percy, rest assured, your brother will be back to his old self."
Zachary's smile faltered, his mouth twisted into a grimace, revealing his teeth. He rubbed the corner of the document forcefully.
"Diana, you really are surprising. No wonder my brother likes you, even willing to die for you."
Diana narrowed her eyes. "Is that all you have to say? That statement lacks any competitive edge."
"Everyone, Zachary is the most qualified to manage the company. He's been overseeing the Percy Group's international projects, and his capabilities are well-known. He can create such plans too," Elise interjected, trying to regain control.
"Everyone," Diana seized the moment, "I don't expect you to make a decision now. We can reconvene in three days for a vote. In the meantime, any shareholder is welcome to meet with me individually, and I will address all concerns in detail."
With that, Elise had no choice but to look at her son, hoping he would say something.
Zachary quickly regained his composure. He raised his hand and clapped. "Diana, you're impressive. Let's let the shareholders decide."
As the meeting ended, Diana left her seat with a cold expression.
Zachary quickly followed, attempting to put his hand on her shoulder, but Nolan blocked him.
"Mr. Percy."
"Nolan, I almost forgot about you, my brother's best aide. Don't be so tense. I just want to invite Diana to dinner, catch up a bit."
Zachary withdrew his hand, his face softening into a smile.
If Nolan didn't know Zachary was a schemer, he might have believed the dinner invitation was genuine.
Diana turned around, raising an eyebrow. "Zachary, we're not close at all. If you approach me like this, I'll think you're hitting on me."
Zachary didn't expect her to be so bold. His gaze swept over her pretty face and the figure hidden beneath her professional attire. His interest was piqued.
Diana's beauty was striking, but her unsmiling demeanor created a sense of distance, which only fueled Zachary's desire to conquer.
He was curious about the woman Charles liked so much.
"Really? But I think we get along well. So, can I invite you to dinner?"
Diana looked up at him, watching his performance. Suddenly, she covered her mouth and laughed lightly, her expression charming.
For a moment, Zachary was mesmerized.
"Sorry, I don't like anyone who looks worse than Charles."
With that, Diana's smile vanished, and she rolled her eyes unapologetically.
Nolan couldn't help but laugh at Zachary's frozen expression. Watching Diana put others in their place was always satisfying.
"Mr. Percy, if there's nothing else, we'll be leaving."
He bowed slightly and hurried to catch up with Diana.
Zachary stood there, his hands gradually clenching into fists.
Behind him, Elise emerged from the conference room, her gaze reproachful.
"I went through so much trouble to get you a legitimate presence in the company, and you let Diana shut you up. Are you trying to drive me crazy?"
"Mom, don't be angry."
Zachary took a deep breath, his attitude towards his mother still respectful.
"Even if she temporarily manages the company, so what? If Charles dies, she can't manage it forever."
Elise's expression changed slightly, knowing her son had a plan. She changed the subject.
"When will you bring that child back to the country? I'd like to meet him."
Zachary frowned. He didn't like the child born from a waitress he had a fling with. Elise had driven the woman away with his consent, but she had given birth to the child anyway.
Zachary had only met the child twice. The boy was timid and easily frightened.
"We'll see. He's been raised by his mother abroad. It's better for him to stay there."
-
Three days later, the voting results were in: 51% of the shareholders supported Diana temporarily taking over as chairperson.
Diana walked into Charles's office, sat in his chair, and touched the leather armrest. The scent of his cologne still lingered.
She thought of Charles working here, feeling a bit nostalgic.
She used to want to run away, but now she had stepped into his world, taking on the role of protector.
"Ms. Spencer."
Abigail knocked gently, reminding her, "You have a meeting with the bank representatives in ten minutes."
Diana nodded and glanced at her phone.
Dean had messaged: [Charles is still alive but hasn't woken up. How far are you willing to go for him?]
Even through the screen, Diana could sense his resentment.
She shook her head and replied: [Got it. Thanks for your help!]
After sending the message, Diana took a deep breath and opened the file in front of her.
From now on, she had to wait for Charles to wake up and manage this vast business empire.
-
Late at night, the hospital was quiet.
A nurse at the station was organizing medical records when another nurse spoke softly behind her.
"It's almost time for rounds. Let's go in and prepare."
She rubbed her eyes and got up to follow. Some patients needed medication at night.
There weren't many patients on this floor, but those in the VIP rooms required special attention.
"He just came out of intensive care a few days ago and has been in a coma. The doctor said if he doesn't wake up, he'll be bedridden for life."
"Really? I saw him when I changed his bandages. He's so handsome. It'd be such a waste if he never wakes up."
"Oh, come on. Does it matter if he's handsome? It's a young life, after all."
The two nurses chatted quietly, not noticing a shadow slipping through the hallway.