Third Person's POV
A director solemnly stated, "Alpha Cliff, she's not a company member and won't prioritize company interests. I suggest you ask her to leave; otherwise, we can't discuss freely."
"I've transferred 20% of the company shares to Vanya. She's now a Todd family member and holds more shares than any of you. Any objections?" Cliff responded.
Elliot was surprised. "Alpha Cliff! Why didn't I hear about this?"
More shocked than Elliot and the other shareholders was Vanya.
She stared at Cliff, her eyes filled with shock and confusion.
What did 20% of the shares mean?
It meant she was now the second-highest executive in the Todd Group, right after Cliff.
With this stake, she could oust him if she wished.
Vanya lowered her voice. "Cliff, are you sure?"
"I've never been more certain. Nothing is more important than you," Cliff said softly.
"I'm completely calm now."
Vanya was stunned by his gaze.
She didn't understand the sudden turn of events.
Why did Cliff love her now?
She had seen and felt how much he loved Melinda.
That look in his eyes was the same as before, only deeper.
Vanya realized Cliff wasn't pretending.
"Any more objections?" Cliff asked the room.
The room fell silent; no one dared to speak against him.
"The meeting begins now," Cliff declared.
Elliot quickly brought Vanya a chair.
Cliff and Vanya sat side by side, but Vanya was distracted.
The discussion focused on strategies against the M Group and new business ventures, which required substantial funding.
Vanya glanced at Cliff several times; he was fully engaged in the discussion.
Elliot noticed Vanya's distraction and whispered, "Luna Vanya, are you unwell?"
"I'm fine. I'll step out for a bit," Vanya said, rising.
The discussion paused.
"I won't participate further," Vanya said coolly. "Carry on."
The group resumed their discussion. Cliff affectionately said, "Rest if you're tired. Elliot will bring your favorite food."
"…Alright," Vanya responded briefly. Under Elliot's guidance, she went to the adjacent lounge.
"Anything specific you'd like?" Elliot asked.
"A cup of coffee, please," Vanya said, sitting on the sofa.
Elliot poured her coffee.
Vanya then asked, "How has Alpha Cliff been at the company lately?"
"Alpha Cliff? He's been distracted and drinking a lot. Today's the most normal he's been, thanks to you," Elliot replied.
Vanya frowned. "He's been drinking?"
"Didn't you know? He was drunk when he went to the M Group last time," Elliot said worriedly.
"I'm really concerned about him."
"Why did he go to the M Group that day?" Vanya inquired.
"I can't say," Elliot answered, though his expression suggested he knew more.
Vanya lowered her eyelids. Elliot likely knew something but was hesitant to share due to her identity.
"Fine, I'll handle Cliff. You may leave," Vanya said.
"Sure," Elliot replied, taking his leave.
Once alone, Vanya sent Stewart a message, "Investigate the Todd Group's recent activities. The more detailed, the better."
Stewart quickly responded with a "Got it."
But Vanya remained uneasy.
She couldn't believe Cliff would let her join the Todd family meeting so openly and grant her 20% of the shares.
Something was amiss.
Meanwhile——
"This is unacceptable for a Wolfe International Finance School graduate. Revise the plan!" Barbara scolded Melinda.
Melinda bowed her head. "I'm sorry, I really don't know how…"
"Don't know? You're supposed to be a top student. I heard you aimed for Deputy Manager. With your skills, do you deserve that ambition?" Barbara sneered.
Melinda's face fell. Barbara sneered again, "Take this plan back and redo it! If you can't do it well, don't show up tomorrow!"
Melinda's face fell. "I'll revise it right away…"
After Melinda left, Barbara called Vanya.
In the Todd lounge, Vanya checked the caller ID and answered once she was sure there were no surveillance devices.
"Didn't I say not to call me recently?" Vanya said in a low voice.
"CEO Dalton, I apologize, but Melinda seems suspicious," Barbara said.