Plans

“Are you suggesting I’m playing favorites?” James’s voice cut through the tension, surprising both Athena and me.

Athena and I exchanged startled glances, unaware that James had been listening.

James strode over to us, fixing his gaze on Athena. "I'm sure you have an idea how we secured the mall project," he said, his voice steady and unyielding.

Athena looked away, unable to respond, guilt etched across her face. She was one of the few in the company who knew about my ties to the Zobel Group of Companies—a secret James had revealed to her.

James turned to the assembled employees, his voice firm yet composed. "Each one of you must understand that I never play favorites. You were all hired solely because of your capabilities and nothing else."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "I will address this issue once and for all, not just for Yelle's sake but also for the company's reputation. I stand by my principles: this company will never be swayed by personal connecti