Chapter 295

"You trust me that much?" Thea smiled faintly. Ever since her hospital visit, her major worry had been resolved, leaving her surprisingly calm despite everything. Only Teri's presence affected her emotions. Thea never expected Teri to be the one to offer warmth at such a time.

"Ms. Rowland, I've worked and fought alongside you for so long. I know how capable you are," Teri said, pursing her lips. "I heard Duncan and Emmalie have been interrogated. I believe your exoneration is imminent. I want a long-term collaboration with Sparkle Rocks, and I hope you'll live up to my trust."

Thea nodded. "I will."

After hanging up, the number of people facing Thea increased significantly, their gazes more passionate. "Ms. Rowland, the Langstaff Group wants to continue working with us! I told you there are still good people in this world." As long as Sparkle Rocks retained the Langstaff Group's business, bankruptcy would be avoided. The employees' attitudes had changed drastically.

Thea's eyes darkened. "Ms. Langstaff said she won't terminate the contract for now, but if the ore quality and transaction volume fall short, we won't just fail to recover funds; we'll also face substantial breach-of-contract penalties. Are you really sure you want to continue slacking off?"

Sparkle Rocks had relied on benefits to retain its older employees. Even the promise of stable income now motivated them.

"Ms. Rowland, don't worry. We'll do our best to withstand public opinion. Even without you and Ms. Holmes, we're confident in stabilizing the company."

These words almost gave Thea an adrenaline rush, but she remained calm. She focused on a few employees who had recently caused trouble. "I remember you've worked for Grandpa since Sparkle Rocks began."

They initially thought she'd raise their salaries. As founding members, they felt entitled to shares, let alone raises.

"You've worked a long time, and Sparkle Rocks recognizes your contributions. Talk to HR about your termination. As long as the conditions aren't unreasonable, I'll agree," Thea said casually, as if dismissing insignificant people.

The other party was furious, nearly overturning the conference room table. "Thea, are you crazy? We're senior employees with pivotal positions! Laying off employees now? Aren't you afraid Sparkle Rocks will collapse?"

He spoke agitatedly. Thea waved a hand dismissively. "It's vermin like you who've driven Sparkle Rocks downhill for years."

No one was indispensable, not even these men who considered themselves the backbone of Sparkle Rocks.

"Mr. Roberts, you recently bought a villa, but your official income is only $3,500 a month. Your wife's a housewife. May I ask where the money came from? And Mr. Wallace, you've overseen the western suburbs mine. I've seen the personnel list you gave the police. You're suspected of counterfeiting and violating regulations. The police are en route."

Thea named several employees, each sweating profusely. She held substantial evidence. "I can send each of you to the police station. I wanted a clean break, but if you don't appreciate it, I'll root you all out."

She wanted them to repay what they'd taken. She wouldn't condone their actions. Thea's overpowering attitude impressed the other employees with her terrifying capabilities. She was seemingly mediocre, yet delivered a brilliant, decisive blow. These self-proclaimed veterans were helpless against her. She turned, smiling gently. "Everyone, consider this a warning. Work hard, and I'll treat you well. Be greedy and betray the company, and I'll send you to prison."

The staff meeting aimed to reignite their fighting spirit. Stagnation was unacceptable.

Back in her office, Thea focused on work until her phone rang urgently.

"Hello, is this Ms. Rowland? This is Silvercreek First Hospital. Your mother, Mrs. Ivy Rowland, called the emergency hotline. Her life is in danger. You're her only emergency contact." Thea thought, 'Me? Ivy's emergency contact?' Ivy knew her siblings were unreliable and placed all her hope on Thea. Thea didn't understand why.

Thea's hand froze. "I'm sorry, I don't have time." She hadn't settled company matters. "She has other children. I'll give you their numbers." It was already kind to not leave Ivy completely unattended.

Soon, Max called, repeatedly trying to reach her. "Thea, do you have a heart? How could you ignore your mother?"

Thea looked up. "Mr. Rowland, she's your mother, not mine. Since you're so filial, why don't you care for her? Why criticize me? I have only basic support obligations to Mrs. Rowland."

She perfunctorily flipped through photos from the southern suburbs mine, seeking details.

"I'm at Key Biscayne. I have much to do. How can I rush over?" Max said.

Thea said nonchalantly, "Aren't Duncan and Emmalie around? Why aren't Mrs. Rowland's precious children fawning over her?"

"You really don't know why Mom fell ill?" Max was surprised. "If you hadn't sent Duncan and Emmalie to the police station, Mom wouldn't be so anxious. The doctor said she had a mini-stroke. You're the only child who can rush to her. Thea, we only have Mom now."

Thea's heart skipped a beat. No matter Ivy's wrongdoings, she was Thea's mother. Thea couldn't watch her die.