Chapter 45
With a distant gaze, Vivienne observed the screen, her eyes hinting at a fleeting coldness. She only half-listened to the department head, catching his mention of Natalie’s impending engagement to the Mitchell Group’s CEO. These two seemed eager to forge ahead, didn't they? Despite expecting heartache, Vivienne was surprised to find the pain less sharp than anticipated. This wasn't because she had moved on quickly; rather, it was due to Derek's overwhelming influence since his sudden arrival in her life. His commanding aura had eclipsed all else, sparing her from sinking into sorrow.
Once the department head finished, Vivienne faced him with poised assurance, her tone firm. “We require a spokesperson who embodies our brand, not merely a celebrity with fleeting popularity. Please have the departments reassess the candidates.” It was clear she did not consider Natalie a fit for endorsing their hotel.
“Of course, Miss Hayes,” the department head replied, slumping back in his chair, looking completely deflated.
A moment later, a project manager stood up slowly, choosing his words carefully. “Miss Hayes, I have a proposal for acquiring land in the city’s old southern district.”
That particular district…
As she mulled this over, Vivienne absently played with a pen, focusing on the project manager’s detailed briefing. “Who are our main competitors for this?”
“From what I’ve gathered, the most formidable contenders are Brighton Group and Mitchell Group.”
With its rapid advancement, Mitchell Group had gained the attention of many venerable firms—a development Vivienne found unsurprising, given its status as a competitive threat. Brighton Group, though deeply rooted in Lyhaton’s history, remained mysterious, its leader cloaked in secrecy. Unlike the Sinclair family’s obvious influence, Brighton Group operated more like a behind-the-scenes force, subtly shaping Lyhaton’s major changes.
“When will the bidding event take place?” Vivienne asked, setting her pen aside and adopting a grave expression.
“Next Tuesday,” the manager replied promptly.
“This project is crucial for us. We have to secure it.”
“Yes, Miss Hayes!”
As Vivienne left the meeting room, onlookers speculated about her apparent disdain for both Mitchell Group and Natalie, though the reasons remained a mystery.
Meanwhile, Warren, having just learned of Sinclair Group’s bid for the southern district land, tightened his grip on his lighter, his eyes narrowing as he turned to his assistant. “Did you say Sinclair Group is entering the bid?”
“That’s correct,” his assistant said. “I’ve just been informed. The new head of Sinclair Group is Benjamin Sinclair’s granddaughter, freshly returned from her studies abroad.”
Warren’s lips curled into a mocking smile. “The sheltered heiress thinks she’s ready for the real world, does she?”
“How shall we proceed with our bid next Tuesday?” the assistant asked, treading lightly.
Warren slowly lowered his gaze and said firmly, “We must win!” Acquiring the southern district land would significantly strengthen Mitchell Group’s future. He was determined to capitalize on this opportunity.
At that moment, his phone buzzed. Natalie was on the line, distressed. “Warren, Sinclair Group has scrapped my endorsement deal!”