A moment later, as if struck by inspiration, he walked over to the desk and looked Godfrey dead in the eye.
"Grandfather, this situation is incredibly damaging to the company, but are we really just going to sit here and take it?"
Although the money would ultimately come from the company's coffers, Maxwell's sheer arrogance had struck a lethal nerve.
"He has always been obsessed with power. For him to let go so easily, and even sever ties with the family, he must have an ace up his sleeve."
But the older the ginger, the spicier the bite.
Godfrey knew perfectly well that Maxwell wouldn't dare run his mouth unless he had solid backing.
Marcus easily followed his train of thought.
"But the real issue here is whether the Lennox family is still willing to align with us. I actually think with Max out of the picture, there might be a chance to salvage the alliance—though it might require you to step in personally."
Godfrey lowered his gaze, seriously pondering the tactical suggestion.
After a heavy silence, he spoke with solemn gravity, "You're right. The Lennox family is a partner we simply cannot afford to lose."
Cementing his decision, the old man gave a firm nod.
"Looking at the bigger picture, it seems we really should pay the divorce settlement."
Of course, once the dust settled, he fully intended to make Maxwell cough up every last dime of it.
"It's getting late, you should head back. Keep tonight's events strictly confidential. As for Maxwell's resignation, I'll head to headquarters tomorrow and make the announcement myself. The board of directors deserves an explanation."
Marcus nodded and turned to leave.
Right before stepping out, he glanced back over his shoulder.
Godfrey was still standing frozen in place, seemingly lost in deep calculation.
Lyra's answer was simple.
"Even a wounded giant has power. From the very beginning, my target was always Maxwell. If the Sterlings can guarantee they'll stay out of my way and sever all ties and financial support to him, I'm open to maintaining the business alliance. I've dealt with Godfrey before; he's cutthroat, which actually makes him a highly predictable and reliable business partner."
Harrison nodded in approval, though he added cautiously, "However, since you and Maxwell haven't finalized the legal paperwork yet, I think we should hold off. We'll resume negotiations with the Sterlings only after your ties are completely severed."
Lyra completely understood his strategic caution.
"You handle the corporate side however you see fit. Honestly, right now, I just want to focus on building my own career."
Looking at his daughter, Harrison's eyes swelled with unconditional adoration.
Whatever she wanted, he supported it a hundred percent.
"Whatever you want to do, just go for it."

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