Chapter 520 Patricia's Stunning Arrival
"However, Ian is unfit to be the company's CEO," Alan asserted. "He lacks work experience, credentials, and exposure. His small start-up failed due to poor management, leaving him drowning in debt. How can he handle a corporation as massive as the Langley Group?"
Martha remained undeterred, countering, "Martin began with no experience either, yet look at the empire he built."
"Do you truly think Ian can measure up to Mr. Langley?" Alan said. "His drive, abilities, and foresight are unmatched."
Martha held back the urge to roll her eyes. "And how can you be so sure he lacks drive, ability, and foresight?"
"The company is at a critical juncture, and Ian's appointment is too risky."
"But he's a Langley. If Martin could turn losses into profits, his brother can too!" Martha said. "Do you think you can take over with Martin gone? You're just an employee. Since when do you have a say in shareholder meetings, let alone CEO appointments?"
Alan remained calm and resolute. "I'm safeguarding Mr. Langley's legacy."
Martha scoffed, "Preservation? More like you want it for yourself!"
"My conscience is clear."
"You know your intentions!" Martha accused. "You act like the CEO when Martin's away, making decisions without his consent. People might think you might as well be the CEO."
Turning to Max, she asked, "Can we tolerate someone like him?"
Alan was talented, but due to his steadfast loyalty to Martin, Martha had considered firing him once Ian took charge. However, his interference was intolerable.
Martha had discreetly contacted shareholders, enticing them with Martin's shares to support Ian's nomination as CEO. They would hold Martin's shares temporarily, with plans to divide them later.
Max had a bone to pick with Alan, who now acted like he owned the company. Max had been itching to oust him but had always held back out of respect for Martin.
"You knew Martin was dead but kept it secret, letting things spiral out of control," Max said. "You've schemed to take over the company, acting as if it were yours. You're fired. Pack your things and leave."
Alan held his ground. "Mr. Langley personally hired me. Only he or myself have the authority to terminate my employment."
Max pounded his fist on the desk and rose to his feet. "Just because Martin valued you doesn't mean you can ignore everyone else, including me. Let me make this clear: with Martin gone, I call the shots at the Langley Group. If I say you're out, you're out!"
When Alan remained steadfast, showing no sign of leaving, Max sneered and pressed the intercom to summon security. "Send some guys up here to throw Alan out."
The head of security hesitated, unsure if he heard correctly. "Alan?"
Alan was Martin's right-hand man, running the company whenever Martin was away. Dismissing him would be reckless.
Max barked, "Do it now, or you can leave with him."
The security chief, reluctant to act, arrived with four guards, but their respect for Alan made them hesitant to use force. Apologetically, they pleaded with Alan, "Please, don't make this harder than it needs to be."
Max, frustrated, exclaimed, "He's just an employee! What's there to fear? Remove him."
The head of security was sweating, fearing the consequences of defying Max.
Alan, not wanting to cause trouble or be the reason anyone lost their job, was about to leave when a commanding voice stopped him in his tracks.
"Let's see who dares lay a finger on him."
All eyes turned toward the source of the voice. The doors swung open.
Patricia strode in with an air of confidence, dressed in a sharp business suit and heels that added two inches to her height. Sebastian trailed behind her, wearing a sleek silver suit and gold-rimmed glasses perched on his nose. Their presence filled the room with an undeniable authority.
Just a year ago, Martin and Patricia had celebrated their extravagant wedding, attended by everyone present. Patricia's presence commanded attention, unmistakably signaling her status as Martin's wife.
Martha's expression soured at the sight of her. "What the hell are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at home looking after the children instead of causing trouble here?"
Patricia paid Martha no mind, treating her as if she were invisible.
Max, his face crimson with anger, demanded, "What are you doing here? This is the Langley Group's shareholder meeting, not a place for uninvited guests." He shot a furious glance at the head of security. "What are you paid for if you let just anyone walk in?"
The head of security, trembling, murmured with bowed head, "She's President Watson, not a stranger."
Max's eyes widened in disbelief. "What did you say?"
The head of security clammed up.
Patricia calmly took a seat where Martin once sat, her arms folded across her chest, and scoffed. "Don't fault him. He's correct. As Martin's widow, I'm the president of the company. Why shouldn't I be allowed in? While you may be attempting to remove him from his position, that hasn't occurred yet. Therefore, I remain the president."
Martha sneered. "A grand title."
Max disliked her words but couldn't refute their accuracy.
Patricia casually rotated in her chair, unfazed. "But this is the boardroom, and some of you are not part of the executive team. You have no right to be here. I must ask you to leave."
Max was momentarily stunned. "What do you mean?"
Patricia rose, her tone grave. "As of today, I am officially assuming control of the Langley Group."
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