Chapter: 260

Brody cleared his throat and spoke with emphasis. "I hope everyone grasps Mr. Bates’ intent now. At Bates Group, forget the past and future; focus on performing well today."

"We get it!" they replied in unison.

"Excellent."

With his task completed, Brody turned to leave but stopped short at the sight of Maddie.

How long had she been there? Had she heard everything?

Feeling awkward, Brody managed a strained smile. “Hi, Maddie."

"I came to collect some items I left behind when I resigned," Maddie responded, her nod brief and her demeanor unobtrusive.

"Alright, then. I'll return to my duties."

As Brody tried to pass, Maddie unexpectedly moved to block his path.

"Can I help you with something?" Brody asked.

"Did he actually say he'd disband Bates' legal department?" Maddie asked.

"IT only relay Mr. Bates' exact words; I wouldn't dare alter them."

A flicker of emotion crossed Maddie's face at the confirmation.

She was stunned that Jonathan would disregard the company's broader interests for Bethany. This was Bates Group, where every decision impacted its trajectory.

And Bethany? She was merely an assistant! At best, she was merely attractive. Maddie truly struggled to see Bethany's appeal.

“Does he even grasp the potential fallout from dismantling the legal department?" Maddie asked, her gaze fixed on Brody. “As his personal secretary, isn't it your duty to remind him? The repercussions for the company could be huge!"

Brody's mouth set into a firm line as he reverted to his typically grave expression.

“Mr. Bates certainly knows the company better than I do. When he decides something, he has his reasons. He would thoroughly consider such significant changes. Furthermore, he didn't suggest he'd dismantle the legal department now; it's because there are individuals there not performing their duties. He won't allow himself to be threatened, right?"

He was subtly referring to Maddie.

It was common knowledge that the legal department was on edge, afraid that Maddie's return might spell trouble.

Her subordinates, aware of her close ties to the Bates family, had assumed her resignation was merely for show; thus, no one had truly stepped up to fill her shoes as head Lawyer.

Maddie had calculated this reaction, which was why she had resigned and then taken to social media. She had damned Bethany's performance with faint praise, casting herself as the wronged party, in hopes of swaying public opinion and putting pressure on Jonathan.

Brody wasn't fooled by her maneuvers, and he was certain Jonathan saw through them as well.

“Brody, even though you've stood by Jonathan for years, remember you're just a secretary," Maddie said coldly. "There will eventually be a hostess in the Bates family, understand?”