Chapter 129

Severin frowned, understanding Felicia and William's concerns. He possessed enough wealth to live comfortably without ever working again. He didn't want Diane to return to work, given her past hardships.

He hadn't revealed the full extent of his wealth to Diane, fearing it would frighten her. Showing her only thirty million was meant to reassure her of his financial capabilities.

After a pause, he asked William, "Were you hoping Diane would return to work?"

Megan, who had been suppressing her anger, blurted out, "Duh! Can you afford to support my sister if she doesn't work? We want a high-class life, not an ordinary one! And having plenty of money isn't a problem, right?"

Severin ignored Megan's stubbornness, turning to Diane. "Do you want to regain the old lady's favor to return to work?" Diane considered this. "Regaining her favor isn't something I've considered. Past wounds are still fresh. But… I do want to return to work, if only to get back at Stanley!"

Megan interjected, "The company's been mismanaged since Stanley became general manager. He replaced competent employees with sycophants who brag but can't do the job!" [Remove the website promotion.]

Felicia, also angered by the mention of Stanley, added, "He's always coveted Diane's position and worried about her inheriting the Shanahan property. He rubbed salt in the wound after she was expelled, constantly finding excuses to reduce our monthly allowance from the Shanahans. Diane's father was even transferred to the warehouse with a significant pay cut!"

William sighed. "That's not all. We overlooked his snide remarks, but worse, he privately urged colleagues to avoid hiring Diane after she was ousted. That's why she had to resort to food delivery! He's despicable!" Severin finally understood Diane's desire to return.

First, Diane remained a Shanahan, albeit estranged after a past disagreement. Time might have softened the old lady's anger.

Second, Diane primarily aimed to confront Stanley, who had cruelly targeted her and her family. Returning to the company was a means of revenge.

Diane explained, "I don't hate Grandma that much. While she was harsh, I admit to disgracing the Shanahans by having a child out of wedlock. The company is failing; it'll collapse under Stanley's mismanagement. I won't let Grandpa's legacy be destroyed. He built it with blood, sweat, and tears!" William lamented, "Your grandfather adored you, but he's gone. It would be different if he were still alive. The old lady favors boys; after you were expelled, she made Stanley general manager."

Severin nodded. "If you want to return, you'll need to find a way back in. Even if I help the Shanahans secure the Liberty City project, the old lady might not reinstate you as general manager."

Felicia stated, "A regular management position is fine. It's better than the current situation. As long as Diane has influence within the Shanahans, Stanley won't dare to push us around!"