Beyond the Divorce

I looked at Fred and had to interrupt him.

I continued apologetically, "To be honest with you, Hartz has established a foothold in Solaris. My projects in Foswood with Tanum are going smoothly, and the several projects I have on hand are very substantial. I had initially planned to work alongside you, but..."

I glanced at him, feeling a little reluctant, but there were certain things that needed to be addressed.

"As you know, I don't want to be constantly surrounded by invisible crises. If my projects are affected by your issues with Hugo, I won't be able to explain myself. Do you understand?" I stared directly at Fred. His pale face was filled with pain, and his forehead was covered in fine sweat.

He was only in his forties, but he looked older than his peers.

In fact, he was an outstanding man who was fully dedicated to his career. The development and research of steel windows had placed him at the forefront of the industry. But his home was in turmoil because of his half-brother, causing him great distress. He had even started plotting against lives for financial gain, but Fred remained indecisive. I couldn't help but feel frustrated at his lack of resolve. I had almost beer implicated four years ago too. This time, I sensed a clear danger and couldn't afford to back down.

Four years ago, I could have abandoned the collaboration without any repercussions, but things were different now. I had set the plans in motion, and if something went wrong here, it would be like being forcefully pulled off a horse mid-gallop.

"Tanum is taking on well-known top-tier projects, Fred. I can't afford to jeopardize my projects due to internal conflict in your company. It would ruin not only me, but ATL Empire too." My words were straightforward, but it was a test of sorts.

I had always suspected something was up when I had come to him when I wanted a divorce. Atlas must have talked to him. Otherwise, he wouldn't have helped me so wholeheartedly. Fred immediately looked at me, confirming my suspicion.

I seized the opportunity and continued candidly, "You can't tell me that Atlas didn't promise you anything, Fred."

"I knew you were smart, Ms. Chloe," Fred said, blushing.

I understood. I looked at Fred for a while, then continued, "I don't care about why you helped me; in any case, you did help. I'll remember that.

"But I need to make things clear to you this time. You should understand that my projects have been upgraded with a potentially significant sales share for you. But the one thing I can't do is join you in your family feud and expose myself to your crisis."

Fred clenched and released his hands on the table. I knew he was trying to make a tough decision.

"I can't influence your decision. After all, I know you value your family. But I need to give you some sincere advice. Being blindly filial can harm not only yourself, but others as well."

I spoke bluntly but with purpose. After all, I needed to be straightforward about the potential issues.

"I'm building a new Bourdamun. I

need to apply for material

replacements in advance for the later stages of construction.

Consider this carefully. My only net

requirement is that you handle your internal affairs properly. That's my ultimatum," I said, finishing my coffee and looking at him.

"A completely new Bourdamun?" he repeated in astonishment.

I nodded confidently. "Yes."

I didn't tell him about the merger of the second and third phases of Avalon Hills or the project in Solaris. If he wanted to, he could find out all about my projects.

"Great. I'll consider your advice.

Anyway, thank you, Ms. Chloe."

Fred's face showed a hint of

determination. "I hope you trust me.

I dare say I'll always be at the

forefront in the field of steel

windows." This text is property of Nô/velD/rama.Org.

"That's what I want." I chuckled as I saw him smile for the first time.

He seemed to breathe a sigh of relief. "I can do it. I hope we can continue to work together. I know you're a decisive person."

"To be honest, I've always had high hopes for your company. I didn't expect..." I shook my head. "He tried to threaten me when he saw me just now."

"He's threatening you?" Fred looked regretful. "The old man told me he's been abroad all this time, so I didn't think he'd still be in Solaris."

"I really am his nemesis." I looked at Fred and smiled. "He admitted that I disrupted several of his plans. He said we would settle the score sooner or later." "He's such a fool," Fred cursed. "I'll get you some good news soon."

I glanced at the time, stood up, and said to him, "Alright. I hope you can handle the situation. I won't provoke anyone unless I've been provoked. If he crosses the line, I'll settle the score. Neither of us will hold back."

"You don't have to dirty your hands. I'll handle it." Fred stood up. "When will you come again?"

"You can visit Foswood next time to see my projects. I'm sure you won't regret it." I invited him over, confident that this would be the best incentive for him to make a decision.