The head of ATL Empire looked at me with some hesitation and said, "Well... I need to get approval for this.""That's fine, I can wait!" I declared, taking a seat in the conference room.I could see Ivanna suppressing a smile. However, Eloise was no longer composed. "Ms. Chloe, what do you mean by making us wait?""What else?" I challenged her with a provocative tone.In a low, questioning growl, Eloise demanded, "What do you mean?"The project head seemed a bit anxious. "Ms. Chloe, can we...finalize the plan first? Then seek approval from higher-ups?""No need!" A cold, clear voice suddenly declaredAtlas strode into the conference room, Harmony never leaving his side. He glanced at everyone present, his eyes sliding over my still-raised arm."Let's go with Ms. Chloe's suggestion and add the sponsorship!"My heart skipped a beat. I hadn't expected Atlas to agree to my request.Eloise immediately put on a fawning smile and said, "Mr. Atlas, um... Isn't this against the requ
“No problem, Ms. Chloe.” The designer nodded earnestly. Ryan had brought her to Tanum Corporation from overseas. Her name was Hana Avila, a classmate of one of Ryan’s juniors, Joyce.She won the newcomer award in the International Interior Decoration Competition. Considering the room for growth in the industry, her remarkable achievement was exceptional. Her return followed Joyce’s.After we finalized the business plan adjustments, Ryan expanded our team. Reviewing my budget, I realized our major projects had laid a solid foundation for us. Lauren’s support also boosted my confidence.I planned to visit Solaris after removing my arm's cast to stabilize Hartz Construction’s foundation. Once the timing was right, I would merge the two sides.Upon entering the showroom, the design and layout gave me a sense of accomplishment. The furnishings were the cherry on top. It was simply absurd for Harmony to be dissatisfied. I only realized Atlas came when I entered. I didn’t expect him to be
There was something in Atlas’s eyes I didn’t understand. Soon after, he said, “I don’t believe you’re that stupid, Chloe.”Again, he called me stupid. I retorted, “Since you think I’m stupid, you ignore my feelings and do whatever you want. You’re too self-centered. Do you even know how to respect others? Don’t you know others also have dignity and rights?”I became agitated. “Yes, I’m stupid enough for you and your people to treat me like an idiot. Still, I willingly get hurt to play these deceitful games with you. I was stupid enough to sacrifice myself for you.”Suddenly, I saw his eyes narrow and his hands clenched."I was stupid enough to watch you turn your back on me while I was on the floor. You're right. I finally realized how stupid I was." I lowered my gaze, feeling tears welling in my eyes. After a while, I sighed, "Forget it.”When my words fell, I felt like a deflated balloon. I finally vented my frustrations. Although I managed to maintain my dignity, I felt I had l
I glanced at them triumphantly and dropped my smile as I turned and left. I felt a deep sense of pain and blamed myself for being forceful.I laughed at myself and felt exhausted. I gritted my teeth as I entered the room. I took a deep breath, not wanting anyone to see me so miserable. As I composed myself, Hana approached and handed me her tablet.She glanced at it and shook her head helplessly. She seemed to be speechless about something. I swiped through a few times and then looked at her. "Can you sort out this information if I call for a meeting now?”"Yes," she replied confidently."How long do you need?" I asked. I didn't want to waste any more time on this issue. Engaging with them would only ruin my mood, and I had more important things to do."Not long. Anywhere with a computer will do," Hana said, her confident look making me feel comfortable. I thought even women could be charming and capable.I nodded approvingly. "Good. Ask Harmony if she has other requirements. Dou
Eloise questioned, "What do you mean?"I knew she was displeased. Everyone knew she had always desired Ivanna's position. I answered by exaggerating each word, "I meant that literally. You fit the role of a celebrity manager best."Ivanna defused the tension, "Ms. Chloe, you've got it wrong. Eloise is ambitious and capable."I snorted. "Anyone can dream.""Who are you talking about?" She didn't catch what I said due to the distance and asked for clarification."Idiot." I winked at her and smirked playfully. Then, I turned to Harmony and said, "Ms. Harmony, is there anything else you want to add, or should we continue?"She greedily surveyed the surroundings, wishing to claim this showroom as hers. She had been holding onto Atlas's arm the whole time. Still somewhat dissatisfied, she said, "That's enough for now. Even if I say more, you may not meet my standards.""Whether or not we can meet them is my problem. Your manager was unhappy just now, saying you're too busy. Since you'
Hana first presented the showroom’s initial layout and decoration. The images depicted a splendid room with a grand style. The attendees occasionally nodded in approval. It seemed they were satisfied with the initial showroom.Hana then displayed a series of images. With each one, she asked, "Ms. Harmony, is this what you'd like?"Hana was soft-spoken as she guided Harmony. The latter became engaged this time, perhaps because she wanted to show off her thoughts to the audience. She appeared elegant and continued expressing her ideas.Whenever this happened, Hana would provide her with feedback before asking, "Is this what you want?"Harmony clapped, nodded in agreement, and occasionally exclaimed, "Oh, yes! That’s what I want. The effect is perfect. Wow, it's great. I love it!”Everyone in the room watched. The attendees were eager to see the overall effect and learn about the celebrity’s design preferences. Harmony’s excitement engaged everyone’s enthusiasm. It seemed she had a m
Everyone present avoided Atlas's piercing gaze, afraid he might single them out.I turned to Eloise and said, "Ms. Eloise, as Ms. Harmony's manager, why don't you share your thoughts? We're all eager to hear your opinion."Eloise hesitated. "I think it's quite…down-to-earth?""This is pure garbage!" The designer, Steven, chimed in. He was straightforward and didn’t care about the consequences. "This kind of decor is terrible. Do you understand it, or are you just making a mess here?"Mr. Atlas, are you trying to tarnish ATL Empire's reputation? Who here would buy a house if it was decorated like this? It's a joke!"Steven was truly fearless enough to criticize Atlas directly. Everyone secretly glanced at Atlas to see his reaction.Then, the photographer mustered the courage to speak up. "I'm sorry, but I can't photograph something like this. I have to be responsible for my work!"The others maintained a cautious attitude, exchanging glances and not daring to speak."Down-to-ear
Atlas's response baffled everyone. Was he declining the offer from Tanum Corporation, or was he going against my suggestion?Harmony was dissatisfied at first, but her expression began to brighten. She seemed to think that Atlas was rejecting me on her behalf.Then, Atlas turned to Ivanna."Ms. Ivanna, please provide Austier Agency with a detailed report. This whole ordeal has disrupted ATL Empire's operations for almost seven hours. I want to issue a warning to all of you. The manager will not participate in ATL Empire's endorsement services again."Harmony exchanged a quick glance with Eloise, whose face turned white. It seemed she had some inkling of what was going on. Harmony then glanced at Atlas, trying to discern his intentions."Ms. Hana, starting today, ATL Empire will request Tanum Corporation to designate you as ATL Empire's soft furnishing designer."My expression froze. I looked at Atlas, my mind filled with confusion. Could it be that he meant…Atlas continued, "St