Chapter 5

As the first rays of light broke through the window, Andrew awoke with renewed determination. Today, he would put his plans into action. After preparing breakfast for himself and his wife, His first step was to visit Blackwood Architect Corporation, where he was now Chairman. He had to figure out how to help Clara without disclosing his true identity.

Andrew dressed casually, as he usually did, to ensure he seemed unremarkable. Before departing, he checked on Clara, who was still soundly sleeping. He kissed her forehead lovingly and whispered, “I promise to make everything right.”

Andrew felt a thrill of pride and responsibility as he arrived at Blackwood Architect Corporation in his wife’s car, which Clara had given him to help with job interviews and other mundane tasks.

The enormous structure stood as a tribute to the empire his grandfather had established, which he now commanded. He entered the grand foyer and was greeted by staff who had no idea their new CEO had arrived. Although the staff glanced at him with mild curiosity due to his casual clothes, they dared not speak.

Good morning, sir,” the receptionist said politely. “How can I assist you today?”

“I have an appointment with Mr. Thompson,” Andrew said, maintaining his cool demeanor.

“Of course, sir. He’s expecting you. Please follow me,” she said, guiding him to the executive floor.

Thompson was waiting for him in the executive office and greeted Andrew with a bow. “Good morning, young master. Welcome to your new empire!”

Andrew nodded, taking in the sumptuous office. “Thank you, Thompson. I require a full breakdown of the company’s current projects and financial situation. Also, I’d like to know how we might strategically support Clara’s company.”

“Certainly, sir. I’d like to introduce you to someone who will be crucial in handling the company’s day-to-day operations while you maintain your cover,” Thompson said with a courteous nod.

“Who is it?” Andrew inquired, curious.

“Mrs. Janet Harper, our Vice CEO,” Thompson replied. “She has been with the company for over a decade and is highly respected for her expertise and leadership.”

Moments later, the door opened to reveal a composed young lady in her early thirties, exuding confidence and professionalism. While she was shocked when she first saw Andrew, not expecting to see such a young and charming man based on Thompson's descriptions, she quickly composed herself and greeted him respectfully.

"Welcome, Mr. Blackwood, it’s an honor to finally meet you," she said, offering her hand.

"Likewise, Miss Harper," Andrew said, shaking her hand firmly. "I’ve heard excellent things about you."

“Thank you, sir,” she said with a pleasant smile. “I assure you, I am fully committed to the company’s success and am ready to assist you in any way necessary.”

Andrew nodded. “For the time being, I need you to oversee the company’s operations. I will keep a close eye on everything, but I want my role and identity to be inconspicuous.”

“Understood, Mr. Blackwood,” Janet replied. “Your directives will be carried out efficiently and with the utmost confidentiality.”

“Good,” Andrew said, relieved.

Andrew sat in his new office at Blackwood Architect Corporation, a tinge of excitement bubbling beneath his cool facade. He turned to Janet, his Vice CEO, who was giving him an update on the company’s latest projects.

“Is there any big project we’re planning to launch?” Andrew asked, his voice steady.

Janet looked at her tablet and scrolled through the list of upcoming ventures. “Yes, Mr. Blackwood. We’re about to begin work on a major development in Beverly Hills. It’s a massive effort that will require significant resources and collaboration.”

Just as she was about to delve into the details, there was a knock at the door. Andrew’s secretary peered in. “Excuse me, Mrs. Janet, Mr. Ethan Stevens is here to see you.”

Janet acted swiftly. “Tell Mr. Stevens to wait. I’ll be with him soon. I'm seeing a VIP now."

As the secretary closed the door, Andrew’s face reddened slightly. “Who is Ethan Stevens?” he asked, despite already knowing the answer.

"Ethan Stevens is the director of Stevens Enterprises,” Janet explained. “Our companies have been collaborating on various initiatives. In fact, the major project I’m about to mention includes their firm.”

Andrew’s mind flashed back to the several occasions when Ethan had humiliated him, taking advantage of his defenseless situation. A surge of resolve swept through him. It was time to begin his campaign of vengeance.

“I want you to cancel all plans to involve Stevens Enterprises in any of our ongoing projects,” Andrew said firmly. “And I want you to terminate any current commercial transactions with them. Effective immediately. If Stevens Enterprises still earns a dime from this company, you will be fired.”

Janet looked astonished but nodded in agreement. “I understand, Mr. Blackwood.”

I'll make certain that happens. However, this choice will have a tremendous influence on the organization. Their shares will collapse, causing significant disruption for them.

"That's exactly what I intend," Andrew said coldly. "Ethan Stevens has wronged me in the past, and it's time he faces the consequences."

Janet nodded again, admiring Andrew's decisiveness. "I'll take care of it right away."

As Janet exited the office to deliver the new directives, Andrew leaned back in his chair, a sense of accomplishment flowing over him. This was only the beginning.

He would deconstruct the lives of those who had looked down on him and Clara, making their demise as public and humiliating as his own.

Andrew watched Janet leave his office, satisfied that he had taken the first step in dismantling Ethan Stevens’ enterprise. His thoughts then shifted to his next move: a strategic plan to support Clara while pursuing vengeance against those who had mistreated him.

He summoned Janet back to his office. “Janet, there is one more thing. I’d like you to inform the media that Blackwood Architect Corporation is undertaking a significant $4 billion project to construct a new branch. We are accepting proposals from all interested companies, and we are seeking the best cooperation available.”

Janet nodded, understanding the importance of the announcement. “I’ll handle it immediately, Mr. Blackwood.”

Andrew felt a sense of relief, knowing that Johnson’s company, where Clara worked, would surely drop in their proposal. By awarding them the contract, he would elevate Clara’s status and secure her future without her realizing it.

Within minutes, every news outlet was abuzz with the announcement. Media reports revealed that Blackwood Architect Corporation planned to launch a $30 million project and invited companies to submit proposals.

Andrew sat back, a satisfied grin spreading across his face as he watched the media frenzy unfold. Cameras flashed, reporters rushed to cover the story, and social media was alive with speculation. His office phone buzzed incessantly with calls and messages from prominent corporations eager to discuss potential collaboration.

He relished the chaos he had caused among the big corporations, knowing that despite the flurry of interest, he would award the contract only to his wife. The sight of their desperate attempts to win the deal amused him.

He chuckled softly to himself. “Look at them scramble,” he thought. “They have no idea that I already know who will get this contract.”