Someone finally speaks up. She looks pretty young, though. Still, Tristan nodded. “What's your solution to this problem?”
The others shot a glance of disdain at the woman. They didn't believe a newcomer could devise a brilliant plan and that she was just playing to the crowd.
“My name's Ophelia Summers, Mr. Tristan. May I use the projector?” Ophelia had been preparing for that moment ever since the incident.
At last, her chance was at hand.
“Mhm,” Tristan replied.
Sophie quit her game as she was interested in Ophelia.
Upon her arrival at the computer connected to the projector, Ophelia inserted her USB into the device.
She proceeded to present a detailed analysis of the catastrophe and shared her solutions with everyone.
When her presentation ended, anyone could hear a pin dropping on the ground.
Sophie gazed at Ophelia with praise. She's pretty good.
“Very well. From now on, you're this branch company's general manager. Felix will be here for the next few days. Should you have any questions, you may direct them to him,” Tristan informed. Sure, aspects of her ideas may be immature, but she's talented. There's no doubt she'll be able to run the branch company like a well-oiled machine.
“What's the meaning of this, Mr. Tristan? Are you asking me to stay here?” The sudden declaration shocked Felix.
“You'll have to work a little harder for the next few days. Ophelia's still young, after all. She'll need your help.”
“Thank you, Mr. Tristan.” Ophelia's gaze glimmered with excitement.
On the other hand, Felix felt speechless.
However, he had no right to object. Even if he protested, Tristan would still insist that he undertake the task.
At the end of the conference, the other high-ranking officials were displeased with Ophelia becoming their leader. However, Tristan was still present, so they kept their mouth shut.
“I'll make myself clear today. If anyone opposes this decision, you're free to leave right away. Don't give Ms. Summer trouble,” Tristan warned. I should replace these high-ranking officials, too. Those who're incompetent should clear their desks and let capable individuals take their place. Lombard Group doesn't tolerate unqualified personnel.
More than a dozen high-ranking officials kept their silence in front of him with lowered heads.
After they left, Ophelia approached Tristan. “Thank you for giving me this chance, Mr. Tristan. I promise I won't let you down.”
“You were the one who seized this opportunity. I didn't hand it to you.” If she were incapable, then any chance she received would be meaningless.
“You'll be following Felix from now on. Ask him any question you want.” Tristan was basically appointing Felix as her mentor.
“Okay.” Ophelia appeared exceptionally docile when she smiled. However, the fact that she could still devise an incredible solution to a complex issue meant she was anything but an amateur.
“All right, let's leave.” It was getting pretty late as it was already ten at night.
Upon removing her earphones, Sophie stood up.
As Tristan pulled Sophie's chair away, Ophelia curiously inspected her. Even though there's no expression on her face, she looks stunningly beautiful. Some people are so attractive that they'll wow others and draw their attention just by standing there. No wonder Mr. Tristan keeps her by his side, considering how amazing she looks.
At the same time, Sophie glanced at Ophelia.
It lasted only for a second before she left.
It wasn't her first time getting gawked at. She had long gotten used to it.
“Well, you better do a good job. Now that you're technically my mentee, don't embarrass me, all right?” Felix notified.
Without delay, Ophelia nodded. “Don't fret, Mr. Northley! I won't disappoint you and Mr. Tristan's expectations. I promise I'll give it my all!”
She felt good saying that. After all my hard work, I finally obtained the opportunity to shine.
“I'll meet you here at nine in the morning. Remember to be punctual. I abhor tardy individuals.” Felix promptly left with Tristan and Sophie.
Ophelia's heart was racing. One day, I'll get everything I want! I can do it!
On the way back, Sophie remained unusually quiet. Holding her hand, Tristan asked, “Are you tired?”
She turned to him. “No.”
“Sorry I asked you to keep staying by my side.”
“It's fine! I don't sleep that early back in Jipsdale, anyway. Relax.” Even though she was conversing with him nonchalantly, she was actually on high alert.
She discovered someone had been stalking them ever since their departure from the branch company.
“Chin up, okay? There will always be small fries trying to take my life, but they aren't getting it that easily!” Of course, Tristan had also noticed they were being followed.
“Yeah! You should relax, Sophie. Mr. Tristan's scorned by many, so plenty of people are always trying to snuff his light out. However, as long as I'm around, you can put your anxiety about his safety to rest.” Felix thought she was worried because she spotted something.
With a nod, Sophie replied, “I know!”
Halfway through their journey, an unlicensed car kept attempting to derail them.
A dangerous glint reflected in Tristan's narrowed eyes. They have some nerve to force us to stop!
The driver was familiar with situations like that as his clients were all prominent figures. Thus, he started driving more cautiously. “No need to fret, Mr. Tristan! This car has been modified to be as indestructible as possible!”
“Investigate who it is, Felix!” Tristan's voice was terrifyingly cold.
Immediately after, Felix contacted someone on the phone.
Hugging Sophie in his embrace, Tristan kissed her forehead when he noticed her lack of expression. “Just be at ease. As long as I'm around, I won't allow you to be hurt by anyone.”
That d*mn Nicholas! He really is coming after us! It must be him. No one else would dare to attack us this openly. Sophie nodded, her fist instinctively tightened. “I know.”
Bang!
The unlicensed car ended up colliding with theirs.
Both vehicles were forced to stop at that.
Their car was mostly fine as it was heavily modified.
Meanwhile, the unmarked car's head had been smashed in.
“Drive!” Tristan barked. If we leave the car now, there's no telling what danger may be lurking in the darkness. It's best that we leave immediately.
“All right, Mr. Tristan.” Hastily, the driver took them away.
The rest of their journey back to the mansion was uneventful.
“Let's go! You should rest first. Don't worry.” Tristan escorted Sophie back to her room before serving her a cup of hot milk.
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