CHAPTER 3: THE PERFECT DECEPTION
MB Group has always been a leader in many fields under Chris's leadership, so news related to these two names is always highly regarded. Today, all media outlets reported on the new meeting of MB Group, following allegations that CEO Mark had leaked confidential information about the group. This incident caused a stir, as MB Group has long been known for its reputation.
The shareholders' meeting was held to address this issue, attracting a large audience, especially from surrounding corporations and companies. In the large meeting room, Mark stood before everyone, his eyes fixed on the projection screen on the wall. Videos and recorded conversations clearly showed his actions in selling MB Group's confidential information. Below, the shareholders all looked disappointed; they had always trusted him and never suspected anything. No one imagined how today's scenario would unfold.
Chris sat at the center of the large conference table, dressed in a black suit. His usually stern face was even more intimidating today. His imposing presence was enough to make anyone across from him feel suffocated. "The reason for this meeting, I'm sure you all know," Chris began. His deep, cold voice sent shivers down some spines, and everyone nodded in understanding.
He had always dedicated himself to MB Group and the future of everyone and the city. A rotten apple spoils the bunch and would naturally infuriate the orchard keeper. "Former CEO Mark joined our group five years ago, bringing considerable knowledge to help MB Group achieve its current position. I appreciate that, but as you all know, once a dog bites its owner, there's no way back." Chris's words were both indirect and deliberate, calling Mark a dog despite his six years of contributions, and showing utter disrespect.
Mark stood on the opposite side, unable to lift his head, though inside, he was seething with anger, wanting to strangle Chris immediately. The other shareholders weren't surprised; they were accustomed to Chris's manner of speaking and behavior, though some newer shareholders were still taken aback, having rarely attended meetings together before.
Chris adjusted the computer, and the large screen displayed recorded images, not only of the secret transactions but also of Mark bribing government officials. Chris continued, "MB Group's annual profits are well known. Our information has always been coveted by many rivals, I understand... But as a CEO, selling information is wrong, especially at such low prices. It's clear Mr. Mark here doesn't respect us." Chris smirked.
The video on the screen played, revealing Mark badmouthing Chris, saying he wasn't deserving of his position and that Mark deserved it more. The shareholders were shocked, unsure of Mark's fate. "Based on the evidence in the video and what you've seen, please give your opinions on the future of our talented CEO." After watching the video, everyone decided to vote for Mark's dismissal. Paul handed Chris a folder, which he accepted before scanning the room, and everyone fell silent.
"Given the evidence and your requests, Mark's position as CEO will be terminated. According to the contract with MB Group, he must compensate the company with two million dollars." The compensation amount left everyone stunned, wondering how he could pay it. Mark was equally shocked, wanting to confront Chris but being held back by security.
"With Mark's current net assets under a million dollars, since he can't cover his mistakes, I propose turning this case over to the state for further investigation," Chris stated before leaving, ending the meeting. Mark's life crumbled as the news spread across networks, met with positive public comments. His lack of appreciation led to his downfall, proving it's unwise to underestimate Chris, a powerful and formidable chairman.
Meanwhile, Celestia was having lunch with colleagues when she saw the news. Amanda, sitting next to her, couldn't stop praising, "What a powerful man, Chris is not to be trifled with." Amanda's family had once dined with him to discuss business. Celestia watched the screen, feeling Chris looked familiar but couldn't place where she'd seen him before.
The meeting had barely ended when Chris left via a secret exit. Through the rearview mirror, he saw numerous reporters and journalists outside MB Group, waiting for an interview with the chairman. This scene made Chris's close assistant chuckle and say quietly, "Sir, this isn't the first time they've waited this long. They never learn, do they?"
"Following Sir Chris is a great honor; I've learned so much. You're so famous and incredible."
"Shh, be quiet," Chris snapped, making the assistant turn pale and quickly cover his mouth.
Their destination was the headquarters, where Mark had already been taken without any trace being leaked. As the large gate opened, a line of bodyguards immediately spread out and stood solemnly, all respectfully saluting. Chris, wearing sunglasses, hands in his pockets, walked gracefully inside, heading straight to the room where Mark was being held.
Mark was tied to a chair, his body covered in bruises, and his face dazed. But upon hearing Chris had arrived, Mark seemed to regain his strength, wanting to leap out and punch him.
"Why the rush? I heard you've been eager for my position," Chris sat down in the chair prepared for him, leisurely mocking Mark. Before exposing everything to the press, Chris had Paul investigate. The previous incident had nearly cost Chris his life, and the mastermind was none other than Mark and his accomplices. They cleverly deceived all the other bodyguards, leading Chris into their trap.
"Bastard, you dared to harm me... Haven't the past years proven my worth?" Mark lost his temper, wanting to assault Chris but being unable to do so.
Getting out of the chair was hard enough, let alone being held down by two guards. Chris clapped sarcastically: "The hand you used to give money to them, I'll cut it off. Then send it to your family as an early New Year's gift."
Mark was psychologically hit by this statement, turning pale, unable to move. He understood well the consequences of betraying Chris but had gone too far to turn back.
Chris signaled, and the two henchmen drew their weapons, waiting for his nod to act. The room echoed with Mark's anguished screams, blood splattering everywhere, his tears falling. Chris, amused, told Paul, "Clean up well, and make sure to pack it in a nice gift box."
"Chairman, please..." Mark used his last bit of strength, discarding his earlier bravado to beg.
Another henchman handed Chris a glove; he put it on, lifting Mark's face, glaring: "Who said they would cripple me for life, or did I mishear? Mark, I've never mistreated you, you sought your own death."
"I was wrong; please spare me; I've only wronged you this once; I promise it won't happen again."
Mark's face twisted in agony; losing a hand meant becoming a cripple. He knew that even if Chris spared him, his life would be worse than death.
"I'm not as arrogant as others think; I just learned a lot from years out in the world. You've followed me for years; you know my nature. I do what I say. There are no second chances for a dog that bites its owner."
With that, Chris stood up and left, not saying another word, leaving his men to do as they pleased, ignoring the desperate pleas behind him. Over a decade in this world, Chris never broke his own rules or felt pity for anyone.
With a heart as cold as his, Chris never had to worry about anything. The only time Paul saw Chris shed a tear was at his foster parents' funeral after a car accident. Since then, Chris has become a hundred times colder.
The only thing that brought him joy was visiting the orphanage children every month—kids as unfortunate as he once was, abandoned and longing for a perfect family.
Christopher remained the same, a hardened man suffering from his circumstances. His heart was devoid of warmth, and his life revolved around the dirty games of the upper class. From twenty-five to thirty-five, it was still the same.