When Louisa spoke those words, everyone in the room looked at her with gratitu could be so kind and approachable. Her voice sounded like heavenly music to the
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and admiration. For the first time, they wondered how this ‘she–devil‘ ears.
Julian had reined in his anger and gave her an enigmatic smile. How noble of ye, Louisa. If I don’t punish you, wouldn’t I be disappointing your good
intentions?”
Louisa fell silent. Everyone fell silent. What was the CEO thinking? Why punishmeone who had done good work?
Julian didn’t elaborate on what the punishment would be. Instead, his cold gaze wept across the room.
Everyone tensed. If the Director was demoted and the Deputy Director punished, ould any of them escape? No one could save them now. They all waited for
the CEO’s final judgment.
Unexpectedly, Julian suddenly smiled–a warm, refreshing smile.
“Everyone has been working hard lately,” he said casually. “With improved performance, bonuses will naturally increase. A notice will be issued shortly.
That’s all, you’re dismissed.”
Everyone was stunned. As they left the conference room, they felt light–headed, as if it wasn’t real. The CEO had disciplined both directors, but was giving
the team leaders raises and bonuses? It seemed surreal. No one understood what ulian was really thinking.
Only Louisa remained behind. She still had to receive her ‘punishment.”
With just the two of them left in the conference room, Louisa reluctantly stood and approached Julian, her face full of reproach. “How do you want to punish
me? Just tell me.”
It was truly unfair–she had done good work, yet she was being punished?
Julian gave her an amused look. “Taking punishment for everyone was your idea.m just granting your wish. Why the long face?”
Louisa was angry but dared not speak her mind. She had increased his profits, yet he was punishing her? How was that reasonable? Her frustration grew, showing clearly in her eyes. She was completely unaware that she looked like she was pouting at him.
Julian’s smile deepened. He stood and took a step closer to her, bending down to whisper in her ear, “Are you really angry?”
His voice was deep and gentle, incredibly alluring.
Louisa’s face instantly flushed hot. Strange–they weren’t doing anything, so why was her face burning and her heart racing? It must be because they were
standing too close.
She quickly stepped back, forcing herself to stay calm. She tried to maintain a nonal, steady tone. “You’re joking. I’m not angry, I’m responsible for the
current situation in the investment department, and I accept whatever punishme you deem appropriate.”
“Then come with me on an inspection, Julian said. “We just acquired a club, and need to visit it at noon.
Louisa’s first thought was work related. She immediately perked up. “Is it the Chest Club? Are there financial problems that need handling?”
Julian tapped her forehead. You think too much. Do you have to worry about eveything? Aren’t you tired?”
Louisa was left speechless. She was indeed exhausted, severely sleep deprived. Ny she regretted it. Why had she pushed herself so hard? She just wanted to repay him, but things had spiraled out of control.
III
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17:19 Thu, Jan 8 GGG.
Chapter 295
Julian sighed, patting her head. Alright, go rest for a bit. Meet me in the parking lot in twenty minutes.
“Understood. They finally left the conference room, one after the other.
Ten minutes later, the company’s official website posted new information. In simple terms, it outlined reward distribution and a fair, transparent
performance evaluation system.
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The team leaders were thrilled because the new system protected their bonuses.eresa and Louisa would only receive their portions as Deputy Directors,
with no additional shares. Despite Louisa’s significant contribution, she wouldn’t get any of the bonus money.
This infuriated Marlee, who paced back and forth in Louisa’s office, talking non–shop.
“Can you stop pacing? You’re making me dizzy,” Louisa said irritably.
Marlee came to stand in front of her. “Louisa, how can Julian be so unfair to you You’ve worked so hard for these people and their projects.
“They think you just casually offered some suggestions. How would they know the effort you put in behind the scenes? You couldn’t have given such relevant advice without thoroughly understanding these projects.
‘You’ve been sleeping only four or five hours a day, barely eating, and what’s the result? Those jerks get all the benefits.*
Marlee grew increasingly angry as she spoke.
Louisa smiled. “I wasn’t doing it for the bonuses anyway. It doesn’t matter.”
“Maybe it doesn’t matter to you,” Marlee retorted, “but what about Julian? How can he not tell right from wrong? I used to admire him so much, but now he’s punishing good work instead of rewarding it.”
‘How do you want him to reward me?” Louisa asked with a wry smile.
She’d recently heard some news. After getting involved in so many projects, some team leaders were grateful, like Erica, who had even offered to share part of her bonus. But people like Erica were rare in the investment department.
Some were anxious that Louisa might take all their bonuses. And then there were people like Ben and Tony, who used her solutions to solve their problems but didn’t want to share the rewards. They were even secretly plotting against he
As for Teresa, she’d long wanted to drive Louisa out of Tudor Group, so she remained silent, hoping Ben and the others would eliminate her.
Louisa understood all this clearly. After years in the corporate world, she knew all too well how selfish and treacherous people could be. She had planned to deal with these issues when she had time.
But before she could act, Julian had stepped in. He had addressed everyone’s concerns and protected her in the process.
After hearing Louisa’s explanation, Marlee finally understood. A bold thought ersed her mind, making her excited. I have a feeling, Louisa, that you’ll be promoted again soon.”
Louisa sighed. ‘I don’t care about promotions or raises. And don’t go spreading mors, understand?”
“Yes! Marlee agreed before leaving.
Louisa checked the time on her phone. Fifteen minutes had already passed. She needed to go to the parking lot. She gathered her things, picked up her bag,
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Lucia Morh is a passionate storyteller who brings emotions to life through her words. When she’s not writing, she finds peace nurturing her garden.

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