Chapter 2040: Am Foolish
Meanwhile, in the manager's office, Orchid was deep in thought. A sudden realization sparked panic. She immediately instructed her subordinates to investigate the research institute's patented formulas. The results were grim: only four remained, all assigned to authorized patent agents—Roxanne's clever cash-flow strategy.
“Damn it! This means I got myself a practically useless research institute!” Orchid raged, berating her subordinates. “What a bunch of losers! We should have secured those formulas immediately! Now it’s all gone!” She trembled with anger, her subordinates silent, too intimidated to respond.
At that moment, Colby knocked on the ajar door. He had observed the scene from outside, hesitant to interrupt, hoping to witness their despair. He then decided to act. Approaching Orchid respectfully, he presented her with two resignation letters—his own and that of Ms. Jarvis, the research institute's head.
“Ms. Downey, this is Ms. Jarvis’s resignation letter, and this is mine,” Colby announced. “I’ve been honored to work with GK Group. However, due to health concerns, I can no longer perform my duties competently. I hope you’ll approve my resignation.”
Orchid’s gaze hardened as she looked at the letters, her heart pounding furiously. “Very well. I approve your resignation!” she spat, waving him away with disgust.
Colby didn't linger, affixing the company seal before leaving. “Roxanne, you’re quite something! It looks like I was foolish to believe you!” he muttered, his words barely concealing his bitterness. Orchid’s furious outburst followed him out, audible even from a distance.
By dusk, the newly resigned Colby arrived at the Flora Verba Group CEO's office to apply for a position. James listened intently as Colby recounted the events, openly celebrating Roxanne's clever maneuver.
“That’s why I can only work for you from today onward. Please take good care of me, Mr. Lann!” Colby stated. He aimed to prepare the research institute for reopening, ensuring a familiar face for Peregrine and the returning technical staff.
“Please don’t be so courteous, Colby. You’re exceptionally talented, with excellent technical and business skills! I would have offered you this position regardless of my debt to Roxanne,” James said seriously. He needed help managing his family business.
“I’ll follow your arrangements, Mr. Lann,” Colby replied, smiling.
“Okay. From today, you’re vice president of Flora Verba Group! Help me out, don’t just focus on the research institute!” James enthusiastically shared his burden.
Colby was taken aback. He'd expected a supervisory role, not such a high position. “Mr. Lann, perhaps you should reconsider? Or inform Ms. Jarvis first?” he suggested, flattered but hesitant.
James waved his hand dismissively. “Even as chairman, I have the right to decide. It’s a yes. Don’t refuse! Flora Verba Group will soon have its own research institute. Once the news breaks, our stock will soar!”