Never Again Yours (Isadora and Magnus) novel Chapter 418

All the key players at the Fitzgerald Group—including major shareholders, board elders, and the most respected founding members—were expected to attend.

What's more, the entire meeting would be recorded in the company's permanent archives.

So, everyone took it seriously.

The vice president began his summary: "Ladies and gentlemen, based on the data from our financial reports, the past year has been outstanding under Mr. Fitzgerald's leadership. The Fitzgerald Group saw a remarkable 20% increase in overall profits, and our return on investment hit an impressive 30%. However, there is a minor blemish—our overseas profits dropped by 15% compared to last year."

As soon as he finished, the conference room erupted in enthusiastic applause.

Adjusting his glasses, the VP continued, "With the annual general meeting approaching, it's possible some minor shareholders are making moves behind the scenes. Especially after your announcement today, Mr. Fitzgerald—about your engagement—they might try to use it against you at the meeting."

He stole a quick glance at the man sitting at the head of the table. "Should we consider… taking some precautionary measures?"

At that, the room fell silent.

The Fitzgerald Group had once been poised to merge with the LS Corporation, and the two companies had enjoyed a close partnership for years.

But when the merger fell apart unexpectedly, their overseas market share took a direct hit.

Many shareholders and board elders were already unhappy about that.

Now, with Victor abruptly announcing his engagement to Isadora, the discontent only grew. Some whispered that it was a "charity marriage"—a move to prop up a weaker partner—which made the more disgruntled shareholders even bolder.

Victor sat back in his chair, legs crossed, his elegant posture radiating quiet authority. His long lashes lowered, giving nothing away, and his expression remained unreadable as he drummed his fingers—slowly, deliberately—on the table. "So, what do you suggest we do?" he asked.

Seeing that Victor was listening, the vice president jumped to present what he thought was a clever solution.

"Mr. Fitzgerald, even though you've announced your engagement, perhaps—for now—the priority should be to smooth things over with the board elders and major shareholders. Maybe you could… postpone the wedding?"

The words had barely left his mouth when Victor fixed him with a cold, cutting stare. The VP fell silent, as if the temperature in the room had dropped ten degrees.