Chapter 215: Instigation
Hannah and Mary entered the conference room, finding a harmonious atmosphere. Everyone was animatedly discussing the Light Building's opening sales data.
"Oh, Hannah, welcome," a top manager greeted.
Hannah smiled. "Good morning, gentlemen."
"Please take a seat," another manager offered.
Hannah and Mary sat down.
"We commend your excellent performance," Vin Rosso, the CEO, announced. "The Light Building's reopening promotional campaign was flawlessly executed. Visitor traffic reached 18,000, turnover hit 8.2 million, and e-commerce sales set a new record. Congratulations!"
Hannah smiled humbly. "Thank you, Mr. Rosso. But I believe I can always improve." She maintained a low profile.
"Ms. Hannah, you're too modest," an executive countered. "You revived a mall we were ready to abandon. You deserve the praise."
Roger interjected wryly, "It's only the first day. Gentlemen, let's not inflate her ego. The praise seems a bit premature." His words were poorly received.
Hannah replied smoothly, "Mr. Cooper, you're right. I'll continue striving for success."
Roger continued, "We care about sales. The opening-day discount was tempting; people chased the hype. But what happens when the discount ends? Can we maintain this popularity? I doubt it. Hannah, as your uncle, I offer this harsh but honest advice for the company's benefit. I hope you understand."
Hannah responded, "Uncle Roger, thank you. This success largely hinged on the opening-day discount, but the promotional campaign was meticulously planned and implemented by Mary. She deserves credit, too." Hannah turned to Mary. "Remember to stay humble."
Mary nodded, surprised by the public acknowledgment. She'd initially thought Hannah was showing off, but this exceeded her expectations.
"What a talented family!" an executive exclaimed. "Mr. Cooper, your daughter is destined for great things."
Roger's expression soured at the revelation of Mary's employment. He glared at Mary, unnoticed by her. She maintained a humble smile.
Another executive teased, "Mr. Cooper, your son seems to have accomplished nothing lately. It seems the next generation's women are outshining the men."
Roger looked uncomfortable. Hannah had excelled; Wayne had not.
Miguel, adopting a serious tone, said, "Let's get down to business." Silence fell.
"Hannah, the campaign was excellent," Miguel stated. "We're fair in rewarding success. The sales department receives a 200,000 reward; the department head and director each receive a maximum of 20%."
Hannah stood, expressing gratitude. The bonus was highly motivating.
Miguel added, "And again, thank you for Roger's advice," acknowledging Roger while subtly reminding Hannah.
Hannah nodded respectfully.
Miguel dismissed the meeting. Everyone departed.
"Mary, come to my office," Roger instructed.
Mary followed meekly.
Hannah smiled coldly, watching them go. Mary likely anticipated praise. Instead, she was met with her father's furious outburst.
"Are you crazy? How dare you work for Hannah?" Roger snarled.
Mary's eyes filled with tears. "But, Dad…"
"I told you not to help her! You've embarrassed me and your brother!" Roger roared.
Wayne, having learned about the meeting, entered. "Mary, I thought you were smarter than Jane. You're incredibly stupid! Hannah's using you, then abandoning you once she's done."
Grief overwhelmed Mary. After receiving praise, she was now facing her brother's harsh criticism.
Roger concluded, "Be careful. I don't want an ungrateful daughter."
Mary meekly nodded.
Roger dismissed her, intending to speak privately with Wayne. Mary remained submissive, nodding, "Okay."
After closing the door, anger flared in Mary's eyes. Despite her efforts to please Roger, she remained in the dark, a sacrifice whenever conflict arose.