Chapter 580: Conversations in the Offices

The meeting concluded. People departed the meeting room. Henry returned to his office, happier than he’d been in a long time. Bob Simonds and several other board members followed. As the door closed, they smiled malevolently.

"Manuel won't be able to turn the tables, no matter how capable he is!" Bob declared gleefully. "What does he think he is? Increasing turnover by 50% in six months? That's a Herculean task even under ideal conditions. Now, with Sway Group entering the market, it's impossible. I've made inquiries; Sway Group will arrive in Kensbury City within a week. Their typical strategy is to initially minimize profits to capture market share. They'll undoubtedly take a significant portion from Phillips Bank. I estimate Phillips will see no turnover growth, possibly a 10% drop, in the next six months."

Henry was thrilled. He believed he could oust Manuel from Phillips Bank within two months.

"What a coincidence," Bob enthused. "Sway Group will likely cause substantial losses for Phillips Bank, but market competition is inevitable. It was bound to happen eventually; this timing is incredibly convenient. I can hardly wait to see Manuel gone!"

Unlike the untouchable, self-limiting Manuel, Henry was a smooth operator, adept at playing all sides. This had earned him greater favor with the board.

"We should take this seriously; Manuel is a formidable opponent," Henry cautioned.

"So what? What can he do now?" Bob smiled. "Henry, we're counting on you."

"We'll support each other."

"You're far too modest…"

His office buzzed with flattering voices, greatly exciting Henry. A clear plan emerged: oust Manuel, regain Edward’s trust, and seize control of Phillips Bank.

Manuel returned to his own office. He acknowledged the immense challenge before him. He'd recently invested considerable effort in analyzing Phillips Bank’s operations to devise a turnover growth strategy. Sway Bank’s arrival, however, complicated matters significantly.

Maintaining existing market share—a considerable challenge for an established business—became his primary concern. Manuel grew pensive, losing the composure he’d displayed during the meeting.

A knock came at the door. Manuel blinked and said, "Come in."

Susan entered. They exchanged a cool, composed gaze.

"My father sent me. He wants to see us in his office. It’s important."

"Okay," Manuel nodded.

After delivering her message, Susan turned to leave, but Manuel immediately rose to follow. They rode the elevator in silence, like strangers.

Susan, having reconsidered her feelings for Manuel overnight, felt a newfound peace. She had realized the folly of her earlier infatuation and accepted her place.

The elevator doors opened, and they entered Edward’s office, seating themselves before his desk.

"I want to discuss Sway Bank," Edward said gravely.

Susan frowned. "Just talk to Manuel. I have no opinion; I don't understand…"

"Then learn something!" Edward stated sternly.

Susan, irritated by Edward’s short temper, retorted, "Why should I? I didn't want to work here! You forced me!"

"Be more ambitious! How can I trust you with the company?"

"Henry's capable enough. Why didn't you send for him?" Susan snapped.

Edward's anger flared. "Why Manuel, not Henry? Manuel isn't family!"

"Because I deserve your trust more," Manuel interjected.

"Hell no!" Susan countered. "He's only here for Phillips Bank. He wants it all for himself."

"I'd like to see that happen," Edward stated bluntly.

Susan glared at him.

"Listen or leave!" Edward felt helpless, resigned to Susan's unyielding personality.

Susan started to leave, having never truly wanted this responsibility. However, she hesitated at the door, unsure what Edward would discuss with Manuel if she departed.

The fear that Edward, in his anger, would hand the company to Manuel spurred her into action. She wouldn't allow that.

She turned and sat down. Edward stared in disbelief.

"I'm not doing anything. I'll just stay and kill time," Susan said nonchalantly.

Manuel spoke, "To prevent Sway Bank from seizing our Northfield market share, the best, safest approach is to identify and exploit their weaknesses."

Edward, distracted from his anger towards Susan by Manuel's words, asked, "What ideas do you have?"

"I know something about them. Northfield isn’t typically a favorable market for them at this time. Their rash entry suggests underlying reasons we should investigate."