In their eyes, Albert's Arms had become the scourge of the community. Watching all this unfold, Agnes felt a heavy weight in her heart. But just as one storm seemed to subside, another brewed on the horizon. NovaPlex Labs was suddenly raided and exposed as a narcotics lab. The authorities found an extensive collection of chemical equipment there. And, in a warehouse, they discovered an entire ton of white powder. Every employee of NovaPlex Labs was detained. But one pharmacist managed to escape.
Uncovering the drug lab should have been a moment of triumph. Yet, Agnes found no joy in the news. Because not long before, the Tim Group had acquired NovaPlex. Now, the Tim Group was the major shareholder, making Jared the big boss of NovaPlex Labs. The story broke quickly. The media frenzy painted Jared as the mastermind behind the drug operation.
The moment Agnes unlocked her phone, she was met with a video of Jared being escorted by the police for questioning. Her heart sank. She couldn't believe the drug case was linked to the Tim Group, to Jared. But thinking it over, too many things didn't add up. Agnes rushed to the police station. Jared was inside, giving his statement. Agnes waited outside, her heart racing.
Alyssa called her. Their grandfather had been in Australia for health reasons, with Alyssa by his side. He hadn't yet heard the news. But Alyssa had seen the reports about the Tim Group. Unable to reach Jared, Alyssa called Agnes. When Alyssa learned the situation also involved Albert's Arms, she was silent for a long time before saying, "I'm coming home immediately."
After hanging up, Agnes saw a police officer emerging from an office with a folder. "Jarvis!" she called out. Jarvis, surprised to see Agnes, said, "Ms. Pritchard, what brings you here?" Glancing towards the interrogation room, he realized, "You're here for Mr. Whitfield's case, aren't you?"
Agnes nodded. "Jared would never be involved in drug manufacturing or trafficking. How could this involve the Tim Group? It's absurd. Besides, Jared didn't even acquire NovaPlex. It's illogical to suspect him."
In reality, Ryder was the one who had acquired NovaPlex. It had been a significant acquisition, fought hard and won. Agnes felt a complicated mix of emotions. Yet, she didn't suspect Ryder was involved. Still, she couldn't make sense of the situation.
Jarvis's expression was grave. "Ms. Pritchard, the situation is quite serious. Mr. Whitfield can't easily shake off the suspicion."
Agnes asked urgently, "What exactly happened?"
Jarvis explained, "NovaPlex is now part of the Tim Group. And just half a month ago, the quality inspection department conducted a surprise check of NovaPlex, finding nothing. The drugs were hidden there within the last two weeks. By that time, Mr. Whitfield was the main decision-maker for the Tim Group. With this incident under his leadership, he can't escape responsibility."
Agnes felt like there was a stone in her heart. Jarvis's words were clear. There was no issue until Jared took charge. Now, with the problem surfacing under his leadership, Jared would have to bear the consequences.
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