Chapter 136: I'm Not So Easy to Use!

Rose projected a $2.6 billion turnover within five years. Based on rent and store numbers, Hannah countered, "In five years, we can reach $4 billion, achieving profitability within two." The team was initially stunned by these ambitious figures, viewing them as fantastical.

Hannah remained composed. "Don't dismiss this. We won't know the outcome until we try. I've presented a bolder goal to the board. This project is just one piece of a larger plan, and I refuse to be thwarted before we even begin. With your trust, we can succeed."

Her resolute words shocked them, yet they found themselves believing. Without further comment, Hannah began assigning tasks. "I'll manage the work, and you can voice concerns if anything seems inappropriate. I'll adapt. Those present today are my trusted team. If you can't complete your assigned work, tell me now; I won't force you. However, refusal will bar you from the sales department. But, if you commit, I won't fail you."

Hannah, oblivious to their reactions, efficiently allocated tasks according to her pre-existing plan. The entire process was swift and effective, contrasting sharply with the usual three-hour meetings. This meeting concluded in just one. Hannah left the conference room, followed by the staff.

While some complained about the workload, others praised Hannah's leadership. They recognized her distinct approach: she always formulated a plan before the meeting, unlike leaders who wasted time discussing strategy during the meeting itself. This naturally boosted efficiency.

Mary, witnessing this, felt a pang of jealousy. She immediately called her father. "Dad, Hannah finished the meeting. She's pursuing the Light Building project, boasting a $4 billion turnover in five years, with profitability in two."

Roger scoffed, "Does she think she's a god?"

"But her plan seems achievable," Mary replied.

"Don't be fooled by her bravado."

"Dad," Mary insisted, "aren't we underestimating her? Consider our recent losses. We can beat her, but we're underestimating her capabilities."

Roger, initially dismissive, began to worry. He'd initially dismissed Mary’s report as mere boasting, but he realized she was right: Hannah consistently exceeded expectations.

"I won't let her succeed," Roger declared. "Monitor her and report any actions."

"Okay."

Mary hung up, her face hardening. Hannah's arrogance must end. She had killed Jane, and Hannah was her next target.

Hannah arrived at the Light Building at 3 PM. The main challenges mirrored Mann's three key issues, but a solution eluded her. Searching her memories, she found no comparable successful shopping mall projects from her past life.

Instead of returning to the company, Hannah prepared for an evening banquet hosted by Phillips Bank. While calling her father, she visited Kensbury City's largest international mall, a Cooper Group property. Though older and centrally located, its marketing strategy offered limited guidance.

Seeking inspiration, she entered the city's largest luxury clothing district, where she unexpectedly encountered Oscar, Theodore, Thomas Wells, and Janet Burke, all seemingly choosing attire for the banquet.

Hannah initially wanted to leave. Kensbury City felt too small! Theodore greeted her.

"What a coincidence!"

Hannah politely responded, "Are you also choosing evening wear for the banquet?"

Janet interjected, "Didn't you know Oscar was attending? Aren't you a couple?"

Hannah glanced at Oscar, who seemed fixated on her. Trapped, she played along.

"Couples enjoy surprises," Hannah said, smoothly taking Oscar's arm. Their display of affection was convincing.

Janet's face fell. She lashed out at a staff member, "Haven't you prepared my dress?"

Hannah smiled triumphantly as Janet stormed off. Though their marriage was a strategic alliance, she wouldn't tolerate Janet's scorn. She'd inadvertently saved Oscar from Janet's advances, an action he should have been thankful for rather than resentful of.

As she released Oscar's arm, he grasped her hand tightly.

"Hannah," he said slowly, "I'm not so easy to use!"

Hannah was about to retort. She'd provoked Janet for her own gain, understanding Janet's interest in Oscar, and this had also spared him complications with Thomas Wells. His response felt ungrateful.