The staff watched Tessa storm out, confused. What was wrong with her? Leaving was one thing, but why did she look so angry? They whispered among themselves.

“What’s with Miss Tessa?”

“Not sure. The shareholders' meeting just ended—we don’t really know what the situation is right now.”

“I heard from inside news—the general manager’s quitting; she’s resigned.”

At that, everyone was stunned.

“What? How could that be?”

If Aurora really left, what would happen to them? She had managed so many people. All kinds of projects, big and small, were under her charge. If she suddenly walked away, what would become of their work? Panic began spreading among the staff.

Ian had also caught wind of the news. Pressing his lips together, he adjusted his glasses, a decision forming in his mind. He hurried to the lobby to look for Aurora. At last, he spotted her stepping out of another elevator. Ian rushed over quickly.

Aurora looked a little surprised when she saw him. “Why are you here?”

By rights, this wasn’t even his working shift. Catching his breath, Ian asked, “Miss Aurora, are you really resigning?”

“Yes.” Aurora met his eyes. “My decision is made. Don’t try to talk me out of it.”

Ian quickly waved his hands. “Miss Aurora, that’s not what I meant.”

But Aurora said, “I’m not the general manager anymore.”

Ian shook his head, uncomfortable with the thought. “No. To me, you’ll always be the general manager.”

He scratched his head, a little embarrassed. “I’ve thought about it for a long time. Since I can’t change your decision, then I’d rather just follow you.”

Aurora looked at him in surprise and pointed at herself. “Are you sure? You really want to follow me?”

After all, she had no company backing her now, and Ian knew that clearly.

But his expression was sincere. “Miss Aurora, I’m not joking. I mean it. I’ve always worked by your side, and with you I’ve learned so much. So, wherever you go, that’s where I’ll be. All the skills I have, you taught me.”

Aurora didn’t want to drag him down. “Ian, think it through. I don’t even know what my future looks like yet. Following me won’t be as stable as what you have now.”

“I understand, Miss Aurora,” Ian said earnestly. “But I don’t want to regret it later. Working with you has been the happiest time for me, and I’ve truly learned my craft. No matter what happens in the future, I want to stay with you.”

His heartfelt loyalty moved Aurora deeply. She patted him on the shoulder. “Alright then. Keep working for now. Once I’ve settled things, I’ll reach out to you.”

Ian’s face lit up with excitement. “Okay! Then I’ll hand in my resignation this week and leave with you.”

Aurora let out a quick “Hey” in protest. “Don’t be in such a rush. I haven’t even settled yet. Better to earn what you can while you can.”

Ian shook his head. “It’s fine, Miss Aurora. I’ve already made up my mind. With your pace, you’ll be back on your feet soon enough. None of this will hold you back.”