Chapter 44
Paul’s trembling hand reached for the glass but quickly withdrew as if burned by its touch. Andrew watched him with an intriguing smile, remembering how this same executive had loudly proclaimed his loyalty earlier. Yet, here he was, stalling and reluctant to take action.
One of the executives urged, “Mr. Clarke, what are you waiting for? We all drank our glasses. You’re the only one left.”
Another executive frowned and chimed in, “We’re all fine, so why are you being such a coward? Just down it in one go. What’s the worst that could happen?”
Paul’s trembling only intensified at these words. For such a big, tough–looking man, he looked like he was about to burst into tears.
“Mr. Rhodes, it seems you haven’t drunk yours either,” Andrew suddenly remarked with a smile.
Michael scoffed and said, “I’m the Vice CEO of Rhodes Corporation and a member of the Rhodes family. I shouldn’t have to participate in these ridiculous games.”
“If you’re too scared to drink, then you must be the culprit!” Andrew declared.
Michael exploded in rage. “You’re spurting nonsense!”
“Then why won’t you drink it?”
“I’m not thirsty.”
Andrew chuckled and said, “That won’t be a problem. We’ll just wait a few more hours until you’re thirsty!”
Lauren and Francesca could not help but laugh. They had never seen Andrew, who was usually refined and composed, show such a wicked side.
Michael crossed his arms and sneered. “I’m the Vice CEO of Rhodes Corporation, the heir to the Rhodes family. I’ll drink when I want to drink, and no one can force me otherwise.”
“So, you’re refusing to cooperate with my investigation?” Lauren asked coldly.
Michael snapped, “I’m happy to cooperate, but don’t you think his methods are disrespecting the executives?”
“If you’re unhappy, you can complain to the board or the family,” Lauren replied.
Michael grunted. “Oh, I’ll definitely be filing complaints. But can we end this ridiculous charade now?”
Lauren’s expression remained unchanged as she stated, “It ends when you and Mr. Clarke drink your water.”
“No matter what you say, I won’t drink it. I’d like to see anyone try to force me,” Michael
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retorted defiantly.
Andrew grinned. “Mr. Rhodes, do you really think that we can’t identify the culprit just because two glasses are left untouched?”
That was exactly what Michael was thinking. With a smug smile, he shot back, saying, “Listen, worthless pretty boy, this is the Rhodes Corporation. You have no authority to give orders
you
here.”
Andrew shrugged, unbothered. “Mr. Rhodes, given your prestigious position, no one would dare force you. So, Mr. Clarke, why don’t you drink yours?”
Paul’s heart sank as he pleaded, “Ms. Rliodes, I…
“I’ve given you more than enough time. Drink it and prove yourself to me,” coldly.
Lauren uttered
The other executives chimed in impatiently, “Just drink it! What’s the worst that could happen?”
“We all know your loyalty to the company. You’ll be fine!”
“Everyone else could be suspicious, but you’re the last person anyone would suspect. We’ve all seen your dedication/
Paul forced a smile, though he looked closer to tears, silently cursing them all. After all, they could not possibly know him better than he knew himself.
Under Lauren’s increasingly cold stare, he finally lifted the glass with shaking hands, while Michael tensed up, his palms sweating.
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Chapter 45
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Chapter 45
