“I agree with Hannah’s handling of this,” an executive director said hurriedly. “When you do something wrong, you should be punished. There’s no need to dwell on the causes and effects. Besides, the company suffered a significant loss because of him!”

“He should have anticipated the consequences. He deserves no sympathy.”

The room erupted again, but Hannah let the clamor subside without interruption. She subtly glanced at Simon Moss, who remained silent amidst the condemnation of Wayne, his expression visibly embarrassed.

Miguel also noted Simon’s discomfort. He was pleased by Simon’s earlier aggression toward Hannah. Clearing his throat, he said, “You criticized Hannah earlier, suggesting the vice president should be Wayne or an outsider. Do you still believe that?”

Simon blushed, despite his experience and age. “I didn’t expect him to act so foolishly. He’s a Cooper, I assumed he wouldn’t be so reckless.”

“But you claimed he’d outperform Hannah. It seems your judgment was flawed.”

Simon’s face reddened further, unable to refute the pointed remark.

Miguel, in high spirits, continued, “You haven’t answered my question. Hannah was framed, Wayne stole our secrets; do you still blame her? Was she negligent? No one here could flawlessly protect trade secrets. Hannah’s plan demonstrates her exceptional capabilities.”

Simon remained silent, knowing any response would be self-incriminating.

“I announce Hannah’s official appointment as vice president of Cooper Group, effective immediately. A formal announcement will be released in three days,” Miguel declared powerfully.

The executive from general affairs respectfully replied, “Yes, Mr. Cooper. I will prepare the appointment documents immediately.”

Feeling empowered by his daughter’s competence, Miguel asserted his authority. “If there are no objections, the meeting is adjourned. Hannah, come to my office.”

“Okay,” Hannah replied.

After Miguel left, others followed suit.

Someone whispered, “Simon, was that impulsive? We all complained about losing the project, but we knew Hannah was capable. We suspected foul play, but you left yourself no room. The truth is out, and it’s awkward.”

Simon’s face darkened. He considered the hypocrisy of businessmen, their tendency to attack the fallen. He alone bore the blame.

Yet, he now admired Hannah’s skill. He suspected more than mere competence; the video evidence was suspiciously convenient. He believed Hannah, shrewd and fearless, had anticipated Wayne’s actions, setting a trap.

A cold sweat broke out. Hannah’s calculated actions, her youth, instilled a deep fear. He recalled the fates of those who opposed her—Mason Porter, Maxwell Watson, even Roger Cooper—and shuddered. He would never again offend her.

Hannah, oblivious to these thoughts, remained unconcerned. Business, she knew, prioritized results over sentiment.

In her father’s office, Hannah asked directly, “Dad, what did you want to say?”

“First, I’m proud. Proud to be your father.”

Hannah smiled wryly, noting her father’s newfound narcissism.

“I can’t manage those old men, yet you silenced them! Hannah, are you even my daughter? When did you become so brilliant?” Miguel remained elated.

“Dad, get to the point,” Hannah said, slightly embarrassed by his praise. (She wouldn't be so capable without the experience of her previous life).

“Second, we need to sue Sawyer Group to reclaim our plan,” Miguel said seriously. “Losing this project is unacceptable. Can we regain control?”

Hannah grew earnest. “Dad, I’ll be frank. This failure was part of my plan.”

Miguel’s expression shifted dramatically.

“I didn’t initially expect Wayne to leak the secrets or intend to lose the bid. But when I discovered his treachery, I used it to my advantage. We can’t keep Wayne; he’s our enemy, not our ally. We must eliminate him before he further compromises us.”

Miguel paused, but didn’t object.

“We should also neutralize Charles. I had someone surveilling him, seeking incriminating evidence. Unfortunately, he’s clever; he used Sandra Stein as a proxy. I gambled that Wayne was foolish enough to leave a trail, and used the evidence to force his hand, but Charles's shrewdness made this risky. If I failed, only Wayne would be caught. At least, we've eliminated one threat.”

“I understand; you lost the project to neutralize Wayne and Charles,” Miguel clarified. “But reclaiming the project is paramount.” For a businessman, he added silently, within ethical and legal boundaries, profit always reigned supreme.