A restaurant could also be opened on the food street. Any large enterprise was eligible to set up a store there and enjoy countless benefits. However, the one-time fee to secure a spot in Transgenerational New City, such as on the food street, was terrifyingly high.

They had never dreamed of entering Transgenerational New City. "Are you serious, Ms. Callahan?" Quinton exclaimed excitedly. "We'll give it a shot. It might or might not work." Thea, however, was less confident. While in Eternality, she had worked to expand the business, aiming to increase the company's qualifications and secure a spot in Transgenerational New City. She was less sure of their chances, considering Pacific Group's inferiority to Eternality.

However, it was her dream, and the dream of every business. Entering Transgenerational New City meant gaining the protection of the Transgenerational Group and numerous benefits. Furthermore, she felt empowered by a certain man—the Cadens' survivor, the ghost-masked man who had saved her. She sensed he was still alive and nearby, silently supporting her. Though wishful thinking, she hoped it was true.

She blushed slightly and discreetly glanced at James, relieved to find him looking around. "Thea, Thea! You have a husband now. How can you be thinking about another man?" she chided herself, shaking her head to clear her thoughts.

Thea's words excited Trevor and the others. Handing the Pacific Group to Thea was a wise choice. In their hands, it would have remained a simple manufacturing factory, never qualifying for Transgenerational New City. With Thea, however, it was no longer a dream. Moreover, they owned 10% of the shares; thus, the Pacific Group's growth would significantly increase the value of their holdings.

Thea left after touring the factory. Upon her arrival at the factory gates, a group of people approached—the previous batch who had gone to the finance department to claim their wages. The finance department had processed and issued the payments, demonstrating the company's improved financial state.

"Ms. Callahan, please give me another chance to work here," one pleaded. Another added, "Ms. Callahan, Quill deceived me. I will never trust him again. Please give me another chance. I have elderly parents and young children to support; I can't afford to lose my job."

Many employees pleaded for reinstatement. Private work groups had already spread news of the 20% salary increase and the raised overtime pay, making leaving less appealing. Thea, understanding their plight, responded compassionately, "I welcome back those who wish to return, but I hope everyone works diligently in the future."

Quill stepped forward, a broad smile on his face. "Ms. Callahan, I was only joking before. I'll still come back to work. A twenty percent raise is fine; I don't need double." He was the factory's deputy director, earning a monthly salary of $38,000.

Thea's response was a sharp, "Hmm?" She summoned security. "Security, please remove this man."

Before the guards arrived, Quinton intervened, shouting, "You're a despicable man, Quill! You tried to sell our factory equipment! The Pacific Group treated you well, and you betrayed us! Get lost!"

Quill protested, "What are you doing, Ms. Callahan? I'm the deputy director! You're firing someone who's worked hard for you!"

The security guards, unsympathetic, responded, "Mr. Wright, are you leaving willingly?" One added, "I haven't liked him for a long time. He's always abused his authority."

The guards forcefully ejected Quill, using physical force.