Chapter 16: Playing Innocent
Raymond scoffed. "Hmph! Be my guest. I have nothing to fear."
Leyton faltered, realizing his threats were ignored.
Just then, Jeffrey, who had been eavesdropping, rushed into the office and approached Raymond. "Mr. Green, I believe the Scott family remains our best option for manufacturing and sales. A deal with them would maximize our profits."
Jeffrey had been bribed by the Scott family to secure a deal with Cosmic Chemical. Failure meant returning the bribe and facing Leyton's wrath.
His advice angered Raymond, who roared, "Jeffrey, why are you interfering? You're an office administrator; you have no say in these deals!"
His outburst silenced Jeffrey, who quietly moved aside.
Jared addressed Jeffrey directly. "Did you take money from the Scotts? Why are you pushing so hard for Mr. Green to sign with them?"
Jeffrey sputtered angrily. "What the hell are you saying? No one took money! I think you have poor character. An employee's character reflects the company's values."
Raymond broke into a cold sweat. He knew Jared's identity and couldn't believe Jeffrey's audacity. Does he have a death wish? he thought. While I'm worried about pleasing Jared, my incompetent subordinate insults him and ruins my efforts!
He kicked Jeffrey in the knees. "Shut up! How dare you speak to Mr. Chance like that? Get on your knees!"
Flabbergasted, Jeffrey stammered, "M-Mr. Green, he's just a salesman. W-What are you doing?"
"Shut up! Get on your knees! Is that clear?!" Raymond added another kick, shocked by Jeffrey's rudeness. If Jared is angry, Tommy, Walter, or the Sullivan family could destroy this company!
As Jeffrey fell to his knees, Raymond profusely apologized to Jared. "Mr. Chance, I should have better trained my subordinates. His behavior was unacceptable. I'll fire him immediately. I'll also investigate the bribery allegations."
His courteous behavior enraged Leyton, who snarled, "Raymond, what's wrong with you? Jared's an ex-convict. Why are you fawning over him? I can't believe you're CEO! It's embarrassing!"
Raymond coldly eyed him. If he's unaware of Jared's capabilities, let him dig his own grave. The Scotts won't last much longer.
The Scott family, while powerful, were no match for Tommy, Walter, and the Sullivan family combined.
Jared said simply, "Mr. Green, let's sign the contract. Peacefully, if you will."
"Of course!" Raymond told Eliza, "Send them away. If they refuse, call security."
Eliza nodded, then addressed Leyton. "Mr. Scott, this way, please."
Leyton glared at Raymond, but knew a further confrontation would only worsen his humiliation. Reluctantly, he took Sandy and left. Before departing, he whirled around. "You'll regret this, Raymond. In more ways than you can imagine."
After their departure, Raymond barked at the kneeling Jeffrey, "Get lost! I'll deal with you later!"
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