Chapter 152

After all, the person Tracy rejected wasn't just anyone; it was Juan Nichols. No one else in Seamar City dared to defy him so openly.

In his office, Juan read the news with a sullen face. The story of the Nichols Group CEO's rejection by the McKinney Group CEO was trending. Everyone wondered who was behind the suddenly prominent McKinney Group, daring enough to snub Juan publicly.

"Sir, this news was intentionally leaked. I've already ordered an investigation. We'll have results soon," said Joe, noticing Juan's grim expression.

"This is definitely linked to the McKinney Group," replied Juan. He had simply wanted to meet Tracy, but the latter had acted impulsively, even turning the encounter into a trending topic.

Tracy was trying to leverage the Nichols Group's reputation to boost the McKinney Group's visibility.

"Sir, the trending topic should be taken down before it affects the company's image," Joe suggested.

To everyone, the Nichols Group was the undisputed leader in Seamar City. But this trending topic might make people believe the mysterious McKinney Group was superior, an undesirable situation.

"Take it down and throw a business banquet," Juan commanded.

"Should we invite Tracy?" someone asked.

"No, invite all business owners except him," Juan declared. He intended to demonstrate who held absolute power in Seamar City. Businesses cooperated and competed for mutual progress. If the McKinney Group wanted to stand out, he would ensure they were isolated.

The sky darkened. In her office, Debra reclined in her chair, while Randy grew anxious.

"Juan's move is ruthless. All the business owners are invited except us. He's isolating us!" Randy exclaimed.

"Not isolation, but picking sides," Debra pointed out with a smile. She had anticipated Juan's tactics when she sent Randy to publicize the rejection. A leopard couldn't change its spots, and Juan always carried himself with an air of superiority.

"Do you have a plan?" Marion asked.

"We'll hold a banquet too," Debra replied.

"No kidding. Even though we have the momentum, those business owners aren't foolish. They won't offend Juan for an uncertain future with you. They'd rather offend you now and suck up to him later when you're successful," Marion warned.

"I know," Debra said calmly, sitting up. "So, I'm planning a masquerade ball with top secrecy. Attendees won't know each other's identities." She held up a badge. "I've had 200 badges made. Tomorrow, they'll be sent to the top 200 companies in our industry. There won't be invitations, only the badges, which will be collected at the end of the party."

"These badges aren't valuable. Just give them away," Randy suggested. Debra smiled, "They will be proven valuable."