Chapter 291: I Want a Meeting With Your CEO
“The black gold card you’re holding is indeed our mall’s most prestigious membership,” the cashier explained. “As per our policy, the card grants its bearer priority access to select any item from the mall.”
Julia turned pale, her body trembling uncontrollably. Staring in disbelief at Vivienne, who was casually enjoying her coffee on the sofa, Julia whispered in shock, “How can this be?” She knew of only one black gold card holder in the entire mall. How had this woman acquired such a card? Just who had she unknowingly gone up against? Fear and confusion flashed across Julia’s face as her eyes narrowed.
Vivienne met her gaze, a chilling smile curling her lips as she regarded the distraught store manager. “Considering your current predicament, do you believe you’ll retain your manager’s position?”
Stunned, Julia was frozen by Vivienne’s piercing stare. She recalled Vivienne’s earlier remark: “Your habit of catering to the wealthy while ignoring those in need will cost you your managerial role by the end of today.” Initially, Julia dismissed the threat as mere intimidation. Now, the reality was crystal clear.
Her voice hoarse and barely audible, Julia tried to defend herself, saying, “Miss Hayes, please understand, this was all a terrible oversight on my part. I failed to recognize your importance. The fault is entirely mine…”
“Think a simple admission of guilt will suffice for forgiveness?” Vivienne cut in sharply, her lips twisting into a cold smirk. “I’m neither generous nor patient enough to ignore such offenses. I’d rather even the score.”
“Please, Miss Hayes, forgive me,” Julia pleaded as she knelt at Vivienne’s feet, her voice breaking with sobs. “I admit I failed to acknowledge your prominence. I’m willing to face any punishment, but please don’t dismiss me. My family depends entirely on my income—they have no one else. Without this job, we are left with nothing…”
Vivienne watched Julia’s tearful apology with cold eyes, showing no sympathy. “Everyone has to deal with the consequences of their actions. I gave you a chance earlier, but you didn’t value it.”
Julia’s misfortune stemmed from her desire to impress Natalie and Diana. Her lack of principles and integrity had led her to this desperate moment. It was her own actions that had precipitated her ruin.
The brand representative was late arriving at the scene but felt a sinking feeling as he took in Vivienne’s commanding presence and the atmosphere of despair. Darryl briefed him on the situation, prompting him to swear out of frustration. Despite being severely scolded, Julia could only plead without resentment. “Please, sir, I was acting in our brand’s best interest…”
“Enough!” the brand representative exclaimed. His frustration was evident—without Julia’s mistake, he wouldn’t be dealing with this mess. As he was still piecing together a response to calm Vivienne, Ennis said coldly, “The conduct of your sales team is unacceptable, and it’s harming the reputation of our mall. Remove your merchandise and vacate our premises at once!”
The directive sent the representative and the store’s staff into a state of upheaval. Overcome with frustration and anger, the representative retorted, “This is a clear violation of our contract. I want a meeting with your CEO immediately.”