Chapter 114: Not Telling You

"Yes, that's him! He's been courting me for years, but I've never liked him!" Josephine said, annoyed at the mention of Xavier's name. "How about this? I'll explain it to Mr. and Mrs. Chance myself. After all, Dragon Bay is the perfect place for retirement."

"That's not necessary. My parents are happy where they are. Besides, they have neighbors to keep them company. Perhaps we can discuss it later," Jared suggested.

Josephine nodded, picked up her bag, and headed for the door. Turning back, she said, "Don't hesitate to tell me if anyone bullies you, okay? If worse comes to worst, I can fire Xavier."

"Do you think anyone's capable of bullying me?" Jared asked with a cheeky smile.

Amused, Josephine left. Who am I kidding? I saw Jared defeat Steven myself. Surely no one in this company could bully him.

Zayne rushed in as soon as Josephine left. "Jared, what did Ms. Sullivan talk to you about?"

With a cold gaze, Jared replied, "I'm not telling you."

Jared left, leaving Zayne furious.

"Hey, Jared! Just because you collected a debt doesn't mean you can disrespect me! I'm your manager!" Zayne shouted.

The staff gathered around Jared as he left, curious about his conversation with Josephine. To their dismay, he remained silent.

Jared spent the afternoon compiling documents on all debtors and sent them to Tommy.

Minutes before quitting time, Xavier arrived at the sales department. His presence unsettled the employees, fearing overtime.

"Hi, Mr. Jennings!" Zayne rushed to greet him.

Xavier surveyed the room before looking directly at Jared. He then said to Zayne, "Mr. Carlson, due to your department's exemplary performance, I'd like to treat everyone to dinner at Vintage Restaurant. Make sure everyone's there."

Xavier left, leaving Zayne stunned.

Surprised, Maria approached Zayne. "Did Mr. Jennings just say he wants to buy us dinner? And he complimented our performance?"

Zayne, equally startled, nodded. "What's gotten into Mr. Jennings? Is he alright?"

Xavier had never treated them to a meal before, and Zayne was constantly criticized for debt collection issues. This sudden change was shocking.

"Mr. Carlson, isn't that good news? Why are you still standing there? Quickly tell everyone!" Lydia exclaimed excitedly.

"Oh! You're right!" Zayne recovered and hurriedly informed his colleagues before anyone left. "Mr. Jennings said everyone must be there!"

"Listen up, everyone! Mr. Jennings is pleased with our performance and wants to treat us all to dinner at Vintage Restaurant. He said everyone must be there!"

The staff cheered. "Wow! Vintage Restaurant? That's awesome!"

"That's one of the best restaurants in Horington! It's as famous as the Glamor Hotel!"

"What's with Mr. Jennings' sudden generosity?"

"I have to touch up my makeup! I must look my best for Mr. Jennings!"

Everyone rushed to prepare for dinner, the women heading to the restrooms.

The final two paragraphs with the website promotion have been removed as they are not part of the story itself.