Chapter 198
"The meeting began with Robert taking his seat to the right of Edward.
Edward took a sip of tea to soothe his throat and asked, 'Has everyone arrived?
""Everyone but Carter Harrison,"" replied Chen. ""But as you know, Carter never attends the shareholders' meetings. He never gets involved; just cashes in his dividends.""
""Well then, let’s get this board meeting started.""
Edward continued, ""I'm pushing seventy now and not as spry as I used to be. I'd like to step down and enjoy my twilight years. We need someone capable to fill the director's seat. With Mrs. Brooks passing away this year, her sixty percent stake has gone to her son, Robert. Now, he’s the majority shareholder with the power to make the big calls.""
A wave of envious glances swept through the room towards Robert.
Robert couldn't help but curve the corners of his mouth upward. Envy was of little consequence; it was all about fate.
Vincent said smilingly, ""Mr. Brooks is at a prime age, experienced and stable. I think he's the perfect successor for the chair.""
""Yes, we approve.""
""Mr. Brooks is the right choice, I have no objections.""
""...""
Support echoed through the spacious conference room.
""Since this is an election, we should follow the normal procedure. Let's have a show of hands,"" Edward instructed.
The shareholders raised their hands, and Edward counted, ""Fifteen shareholders, ten in favor. It seems the chair is destined for Mr. Brooks—no, I should now address him as Chairman Brooks.""
Robert stood up, beaming with pride, ""I am deeply grateful for your support. If I take this director's seat, I promise to lead the Peace Group into the top 300, even top 100 globally, and ensure a greater dividend for everyone every year.""
""We believe in you,"" the room applauded.
Robert grinned so broadly it seemed he couldn't close his mouth. He felt as though he was floating on air.
He’d spent his career as an executive at Height Company, but that was nothing compared to his new role at Peace Group.
From now on, everyone in Madison would have to take his lead.
As for those who didn’t vote for him today...
He turned his head towards Olivia Brooks and said sharply, 'Make sure you've got the names of every shareholder who didn't back me. They, and their families, are out of this company for good.
""Don't worry, Dad, I've noted them all down."" Olivia's red lips curled into a smile. ""Dad, can I take the CEO chair today? I don't care for that property division anymore.""
""There, there, we'll talk about it in the meeting,"" he reassured her.
Thrilled to her core, Olivia vibrated with excitement. She would soon be an heiress worth billions. Not just in Madison, but she'd secure her standing among the socialites of the entire city.
As for Cassie, she was nothing more than an ant beneath their feet.
""Mr. Brooks, please, take my seat. It rightfully belongs to you now,"" Edward said as he stood up, gesturing to his chair. ""The shareholders' meeting is all yours.""
‘Edward, you're too kind,' Robert uttered with false modesty, though his legs were already moving him swiftly to claim the seat.
The conference room doors flung open with a thunderous clash. A middle-aged man in a black suit strode in with a powerful presence, a young woman in a striking sapphire blue blazer following close behind. Her fair skin was set off by the deep color, and her hair cascaded down her shoulders, framing her stunning features. Her face was expressionless, yet she exuded an undeniable aura.
At that moment, however, the faces of Robert and Olivia Brooks distorted with dismay.
""Out, Cassie, get the hell out of here! This is Peace Group's territory,"" Olivia barked loudly, her voice brimming with arrogance. ""Who let her in? Both of you, get lost!""
With a look of disdain, Cassie's lips formed a thin, mocking smile. Carter Harrison frowned deeply, displeased. ""What? I've been gone a few years, and now I don't even have the right to bring someone into a boardroom?""