Chapter 14
“No problem! With Cedric doing so well, we’ll all get to share in the success,” someone chimed eagerly.
“Exactly! How could Tiever forget about all of you? If you need anything, just say the word.”
The room erupted into excited chatter, everyone speaking over one another. The main topic was clear—they all wanted a piece of Payne Group. Some even joked that they’d be willing to work as security guards if it meant getting into the company.
After all, Payne Group had recently gone public and was now a powerhouse with limitless growth potential.
Cedric thumped his chest, exuding confidence. “No problem! That’s an easy one. Tomorrow, I’ll take you all to Payne Group and make sure everyone is properly set.”
The group went silent for a moment, blinking in surprise. They hadn’t expected him to agree so quickly.
A cautious middle-aged woman hesitated before speaking. “Um, shouldn’t you talk to Ms. Payne about this first?”
Cedric let out a sneer. “What’s there to talk about? If I say I can arrange it, then it’s as good as done! Besides, I’m everything in this family. She’s just a woman; what does she know about making decisions?”
As expected, the flattery came pouring in immediately, inflating his ego further. Cedric raised his chin, clearly basking in the attention.
The next morning, Cedric arrived at Payne Group with a throng of relatives in tow. At a glance, it was immediately clear there were easily dozens of them, an overwhelming crowd.
Cedric waved his hand dismissively as they approached the main entrance. “When we go in, don’t hold back. This is our company.”
“Cedric, you’re amazing!” someone claimed.
“I always knew you were destined for greatness!” another chimed in.
“This is all thanks to Cedric!”
Cedric strutted forward like he owned the place, radiating the arrogance of someone who believed himself to be the master of Payne Group. “Stop right there!” suddenly, a sharp voice cut through the air as a security guard stepped in to block the group.
“Hello. May I ask who you’re here to see? Do you have an appointment?” the guard asked.
Cedric burst into laughter. “An appointment? That’s hilarious. Do you even know who I am?”
The security guard sized Cedric up and down before shaking his head firmly. “I don’t know who you are, sir. All I know is that without an appointment, you’re not getting in.”
Cedric opened his mouth to respond, but the relatives behind him erupted first.
“This is outrageous! Who do you think you are, speaking to us like that? You’re just a lowly security guard!” “Exactly! Cedric is Ms. Payne’s husband, which makes him the boss of Payne Group. How dare you treat him this way? Do you even care about keeping your job?” Cedric puffed out his chest. “What are you waiting for? Move aside! Waste any more of my time, and you won’t be able to handle the consequences!”
The sharp sound of a whistle pierced the air, leaving the security guard stunned. He stared at Cedric in disbelief.
“I’m pure dad, you understand idiot? Got a problem with that?” Cedric sneered.
“Hey, Mr. Reid, a phone call is urgently needed.” Then, a figure rushed over; it was the head of security.
“Mr. Reid! My deepest apologies. He’s new here, please don’t take this personally.” He bowed low, his tone trembling. Cedric merely nodded. “Make sure you train your staff properly. I don’t have time for nobodies blocking my way!”
As the group disappeared into the building, he let out a heavy sigh. “Ms. Payne, you really…well…”
…and all he could do was shake his head in exasperation. He marched into the department with his relatives in tow. The moment he entered, his commanding voice filled the room. It didn’t take long before the HR manager hurried over. “Mr. Payne, you here today! What brings you here?”