Chapter 450: The Game (2)

"Yes," Hannah said. "Our only deficiency is influence. We need to build a following, but we lack a local base."

She turned to Tan. "You've done extensive inbound marketing overseas. Any ideas?"

"Building a following is simple," Tan replied. "It just requires resources—investment."

"I'm listening," Hannah said.

"First, a celebrity spokesperson attracts a large fan base. Second, special offers attract numerous customers quickly. Third, widespread advertising creates visibility and interest. Fourth, word-of-mouth marketing is incredibly efficient. Excellent service and product quality will quickly establish market dominance, especially since Northfield's e-commerce sector is underdeveloped."

Hannah agreed, knowing e-commerce would boom within a decade. She had long planned to build an e-commerce platform, but company transformation takes time. This presented an opportunity she couldn't ignore.

"Okay," she said. "Proceed as you've outlined. My focus is securing board approval for funding."

"What's the budget?" Tan asked.

"Prepare a budget sheet," Hannah instructed. "I'll determine the appropriate funding based on that."

"Right. I'll finish it today," Tan said.

"It's nearly noon. Are you sure?" Hannah asked, hesitant to push him.

"I'm accustomed to fast-paced work," he replied.

"It seems I need to give you a raise," Hannah said.

"I appreciate that," Tan responded.

"But you need to deliver exceptional results. Your salary increase hinges on your performance."

"I'll work my hardest," Tan joked.

Hannah smiled. "Don't waste time. Get to that budget."

"Okay."

Tan left, and Hannah observed him. Though she'd only known him for half a month, she was impressed. She didn't remember him from her previous life, yet she had no doubts. He seemed unconnected to the Sawyer Group, and she'd specifically chosen him to test this venture. She wanted to avoid future betrayal.

Meanwhile, in his office, Henry trembled with rage. His certain victory had been shattered. 'That damned Manuel Johnson,' he thought. Manuel, previously incompetent, was now his superior, supervising his group. Was this a setup? He couldn't comprehend Manuel's sudden success.

He gritted his teeth, then called. "Mr. Sawyer."

"What is it?" Charles answered gruffly.

"Manuel's at Phillips Bank."

Charles frowned, momentarily pausing before recalling Manuel. He wouldn't have taken Manuel seriously if his sister hadn't shown interest.

"Yes, he's the assistant general manager. I've become a scapegoat."

"Isn't Manuel divorced from Susan? How is he at Phillips Bank?"

"His mother, Justine Knight, is likely the reason. Edward's long admired Justine, so he probably placed Manuel to appease her."

"What's his ability?" Charles asked directly.

"It's his first day; I can't assess him yet."

"So, you called to get rid of him, to remove an obstacle?"

"Precisely. I've worked hard to reach my position, ingratiating myself with many executives. Manuel's undermined all my efforts."

"I doubt he's capable of much, so don't worry. Edward's shrewd; he won't keep someone unproductive, especially not in a significant role. He'll dismiss Manuel quickly if he's incompetent."

"The problem is, I feel undermined."

Henry found Edward ruthlessly cold-blooded. "I've worked for him for years, and I still can't surpass Manuel."

"Stop whining," Charles scoffed. "It's a tall order for someone of your background to rival the Phillips family."

Henry recalled Martina's mockery, clinging to his phone, controlling his fury. The Sawyers' disdain burned in his soul; one day, he'd make them regret their contempt.

"I have an idea to improve your situation."

"What?" Henry asked.

"Go public with Manuel and Susan's divorce. This would disqualify him from his position. Top executives might remove him. Even if Edward doesn't act, you'll still cause Manuel distress. And considering his feelings for Susan, how would he react to you dating her?" Charles said casually, not taking Manuel seriously.

Henry felt a degree of relief. He’d never seen Charles's ruthlessness until now. His methods of hurting people were more effective than his actual abilities.

"There's something you should know."

"What?"

"Sawyer plans international e-commerce but faces funding issues. I need a billion-dollar loan."

"You're behind on your existing loan. You can't get another one officially."

"That's why I'm telling you now. Prepare in advance."

"A billion is beyond my authority." Henry resisted.

"Henry, don't you understand? I want you to find a way to secure the loan legally and properly!"

Henry frowned. Was Charles pushing him toward criminal activity?