Chapter: 371

"Sir!"

Jonathan turned around; it was the receptionist who had assisted him with candies the day before. “What's up?"

“The mother of the little girl you gave candies to yesterday left you a business card!" the receptionist said, pulling out the card.

Just as Jonathan's hand hovered above the card, he pulled back, averting his gaze.

"No, thank you."

He had pledged to cast aside every trace of his Westsilver stay.

With unwavering resolve, he intended to sweep all memories into the dustbin of the past, including those of the little girl.

The receptionist watched him leave, a wistful sigh escaping her Lips.

“What a missed opportunity," she lamented silently. "I wish I had been brave enough to ask if he's single!"

Once ensconced in his vehicle, Jonathan buried himself in the company's latest contract, his mind a beehive of activity. Lately, the branch company had been rocked by scandal; the acting CEO's affair with a female secretary had caused a nosedive in stock prices.

As a result, all related investment projects were in limbo, desperately needing someone to pick up the pieces.

As he arrived at the airport, his phone buzzed. Brody was on the line. "Mr. Bates, are you thinking of replacing the acting CEO or..."

Jonathan's voice was steel. “His reckless behavior has tarnished our reputation and might even face criminal charges; such a blemish is unacceptable."

"Who do you have in mind for the position?" Brody pressed on, keenly aware that the role had become a poisoned chalice. Whoever failed to reverse the tide upon assuming office risked not only squandering all previous efforts but also facing stringent accountability from the headquarters.

After a moment's contemplation, Jonathan's lips curved slightly. "His wife was a strong leader before retiring to focus on family life; you should get in touch with her."

"But sir, she's in the midst of divorce proceedings."

Given the scandal, no woman could endure such a disgrace. Even if they had been living separate lives and were fully aware of their spouse's indiscretions, as long as it remained hidden, they could look the other way.

But now that the truth was laid bare, it was imperative to confront it head-on and safeguard her honor and standing.

Jonathan's response was measured. "They have children; after the divorce, what do you think a woman needs the most?"

“Financial security?" Brody ventured.

“Precisely. This crisis is her golden ticket back into the corporate world. She'll move heaven and earth to reclaim what her unfaithful husband squandered. It's a win-win situation; she'll reassure the shareholders and partners while we merely extend a helping hand."

At that point, Bates Group only needed to offer a simple helping hand.

Brody's voice brightened with understanding. “I see, Mr. Bates! I'll arrange for someone to suggest it to her, and then we'll organize a shareholders’ meeting to choose a new acting CEO, and we'll invite her to join."

"Good," Jonathan replied, massaging his temples. "No one knows about my return to the country, right?"