Chapter 275: The Fate of Miguel Cooper and the Chaos Caused by Lorie

News of the Cooper Group saga had dominated headlines for a month, from Miguel Cooper's initial indictment to his acquittal and Roger Cooper's subsequent sentencing. This kept Cooper Group in the spotlight throughout. Despite an initial dramatic drop, Cooper Group's stock rebounded, exceeding its original value and establishing an upward trend.

Hannah, in her office, checked the news during a break. This wasn't merely relaxation; she actively monitored business developments. A news report detailed the fallout from Roger Cooper's fifteen-year sentence for bribery, tax evasion, and personal enrichment. Roger's imprisonment effectively marked the end of his era, leaving Wayne and Mary Cooper vulnerable.

She set down her phone, took a sip of coffee, and calmly said, "Come in."

Rose entered. "Ms. Hannah," she reported, "the Chairman's Secretary-General instructed me to inform you of tomorrow night's company anniversary celebration."

Hannah glanced at her calendar. "Tomorrow night?"

"Yes, at 6 p.m. She emphasized the importance of punctuality."

"Will outside guests be invited?"

"The Cooper Group anniversary is a public event," Rose explained. "The internal company dinner is held at year's end."

Hannah nodded. "Okay, remind me again tomorrow."

"Understood."

"How's the 'Huatan' Apartments construction progressing?" Hannah asked.

"The winning contractor has begun work. Progress is excellent, and completion is expected early next year," Rose reported.

"Ask the planning department when sales will commence."

"I'll get back to you." Rose made a note.

"I've been here three months," Hannah stated. "I pledged 80% of our annual sales target. What's the current progress?"

"Preliminary calculations show we've reached 90% of the annual target, including Light Building and other projects. 'Huatan' International, upon launch, is projected to boost income by 200%—a significant increase given last year's losses. Moreover, despite market fluctuations since your arrival, Ms. Hannah, the company's stock shows a strong positive trend, tripling last year's profits."

Hannah appreciated Rose's preparedness. "Thank you. You may go."

"Yes," Rose replied, departing.

Hannah resumed her work. The phone rang. She answered, "Dad."

"Your grandmother's in my office. Come up," Miguel said urgently.

Hannah's face tightened. Her uncle's sentencing, coupled with her grandmother's arrival, foreshadowed trouble. She rushed out, calling to Rose, "Come with me."

Rose followed to the chairman's office. They heard Lorie Cox shouting from afar, "Get out! I'm disciplining my son. Anyone interfering will face my wrath!"

Hannah's expression hardened. Entering the office, she addressed Lorie, "Don't forget your public declaration severing ties with my father. Have you already developed amnesia?"

Hannah refused to address Lorie as "grandmother," believing she forfeited that right.

Lorie's face reddened. Esther, Wayne, Jane, and several security guards were present; Lorie's intrusion had triggered a security response.

"He's my son! He can't escape that bond, even in death!" Lorie screamed.

"You're absurd. You severed ties, then claim he can't. What do you want?" Hannah retorted.

"Ten million. Transfer it now!" Lorie demanded bluntly, her expression conveying that compliance was non-negotiable. Her brazenness was shocking.

Hannah understood: Lorie wanted money. This wasn't entirely surprising. After severing ties, they reclaimed the old house, dismissed the servants, and stopped her allowance. This, coupled with the return of Wayne's family to Roger's villa, implied a temporary financial buffer. However, Roger's tax evasion conviction resulted in asset forfeiture. His family's wealth was illusory.

Lorie's demand was a direct consequence of this financial devastation.

"Do you think we'll comply just because you ask?" Hannah asked calmly, her tone laced with irony.

"Refusal means a lawsuit! For failing to support me!" Lorie threatened.

Hannah's ironic smile deepened. "Old lady, support is easily provided. A Northfield nursing home, with a monthly allowance for basic living expenses, would be appropriate. We'll even include a nanny's services. Ten thousand dollars monthly. What do you think?"

"Ten thousand? You think that's sufficient?" Lorie fumed, enraged by the offer and the implication of her inability to care for herself.