Chapter 448

“I have other commitments, so I can’t always be at the company. When it comes to management, Franco is way better than me,” Calliope remarked.

“He’ll be staying here as my assistant. If I’m unavailable, he’ll handle everything. I think everyone knows who he is, and there shouldn’t be any objections.”

Monty nodded absentmindedly. He wasn’t sure whether to be thrilled, grateful, or panicked.

Franco was indeed impressive, but if he stayed, would he eventually take over the place? Would the company slowly change under his influence?

“What’s the matter, you’re not on board with this?” Calliope asked, her eyes fixed on Monty. “I’ve already made the decision here. It doesn’t matter if you agree or not. I’m not here to seek your opinion; just to inform you.”

“Pleasure working with you, Mr. Jewell,” Franco said with a friendly smile, extending his hand towards Monty.

Monty stared at his own hand, his expression twitching slightly.

After lunch, Calliope took Franco to the office where they discussed a few things. Monty, unable to follow the conversation, sat awkwardly on the couch. He used to be the one in charge, but suddenly, he felt like an outsider in his own domain.

Within just a morning, Calliope had shown she meant business. Monty recalled how the employees were buzzing with excitement after lunch. He’d never seen them so enthusiastic and motivated before.

He realized that if Calliope had wanted to, she could have easily taken over the company. She had the capability, but she chose not to, and for that, she showed remarkable restraint.

Meanwhile, at the Jewell household, Valerian, though not entirely happy, followed Horatio’s instructions. He instructed the staff to clear out Horatio’s room, preparing it for a makeover.

Zelda returned home to find Valerian in the middle of this project.

“What are you doing?” she demanded as she approached.

“Clearing out Horatio’s room. He’s moving to that smaller one,” Valerian replied.

“What?” Zelda exclaimed, incredulous. “Why the change? He has trouble walking, how’s he supposed to manage in such a cramped space?”

“Horatio wants to give his room to Calliope,” Valerian explained.

“Why would he give it to that jinx?” Zelda fumed. Her recent outing with the other socialites had been filled with gossip about their family’s decline. Mention of Lisette and Calliope had nearly driven her mad with frustration. Now, back home, this was the last straw.

“If it weren’t for that jinx, would the company be in its current state?” she added.

“It’s to make amends to Callie,” Valerian said. “Just leave it. The company plans to hand over management to her.”

“What?” Zelda shrieked, her voice piercing the air. “Are you giving her shares too? Have you all lost your minds? Why are you three acting so irrationally?”

“The company needs her,” Valerian insisted, frowning. “Don’t you want Lisette out? Don’t you want Horatio’s legs to heal?”

“She’s blackmailing you with those terms, and you’re falling for it? If she had any conscience, she wouldn’t be using these against you!”

“I’ll go to the company right now to confront her!” Zelda declared, her voice trembling with anger.

Chapter 449