Chapter 777: Goodbye for Good
Miguel stared at Hannah’s forced smile as she helped him with his tie. The gesture was meant to appear calm and natural.
“Hannah, I’m good. Don’t worry,” Miguel said, stroking her head.
Hannah nodded silently.
The secretary knocked politely. “Mr. Cooper, Miss Cooper, the meeting will begin shortly.”
“Okay,” Miguel said heavily. “Let’s end our business careers.”
“Uh-huh.”
Hannah and Miguel entered the building’s largest meeting room—vast enough to accommodate over a thousand people. A hush fell over the assembled employees. Rumors had circulated for a long time, but nothing had been confirmed. Most employees were curious, and the all-staff meeting fueled their speculation.
Miguel took the platform, Hannah standing nearby. Her loose clothing concealed her pregnancy, though the fact remained evident. The staff present watched Miguel; those in branch offices observed via video screens. The rarity of such a large-scale Cooper Group meeting lent the occasion considerable gravity. A long silence ensued, the staff waiting patiently.
Finally, Miguel began. “My apologies for interrupting your work. As you know, Cooper Group has always prioritized efficiency. I have much to share today, and I want to do so personally.”
His opening remarks were noticeably serious.
“I believe you’ve heard that Cooper Group has been acquired. I hereby officially announce that Cooper Group has been purchased by CL Group. From now on, Cooper Group will no longer be run by the Coopers—myself or my daughter, Hannah.”
Stunned silence followed. Many dismissed it as a rumor. Given their standing, it seemed improbable. Yet, Miguel’s words left no room for doubt. The meeting room, and the video conference rooms in the branch offices, erupted in a flurry of activity.
Miguel struggled to contain his emotion as he observed the worried faces of his long-time employees. He composed himself. “The Cooper family will be leaving the company, but this will have minimal impact on most of you.”
The room fell silent again. Hannah fixed her gaze on her father, seeing the weight of years in his graying hair. He deserved a peaceful retirement, not this abrupt end to his career.
“We’ve worked with the Personnel Department to ensure the best possible benefits. For employees below the director level, nothing will change immediately; you will retain your positions. Furthermore, we’ve negotiated a 5% pay raise, effective this month!”
The room buzzed with disbelief at the unexpected raise, delivered by their departing leader.
“Please, quiet,” Miguel said, maintaining his composure despite his sadness. The room fell silent.
“You will receive this raise and have your contracts renewed for five years. However, this is optional. If you secure better opportunities, you may leave without penalty. The new owners will not dismiss you unless you commit serious errors.”
He was ensuring their security. The five-year period would allow them to transition smoothly, minimizing potential layoffs.
“Regarding senior managers, I’ve addressed those matters privately.” He had spoken with them individually, and they had accepted his arrangements. Even those departing expressed gratitude for his support. Hannah had strived to consider every detail, her efforts a testament to her devotion. She hoped he would be remembered fondly, his legacy enduring even after he left the spotlight.
Warm applause erupted, a show of gratitude.
“I wish you all a bright future,” Miguel said powerfully and emotionally. “Goodbye, for good.”
He bowed. Several women wept. Hannah fought back tears, recognizing the profound pain behind his farewell.
The meeting concluded in thunderous applause. Hannah and Miguel left the platform, their departure marking the end of the Cooper family's era. Employees stood, watching them go.
Manuel waited outside. He had witnessed everything, his heart heavy with the bittersweet reality of the situation. Life, he knew, often dealt unexpected blows, leaving little choice but acceptance.