Substitute Wife, Genius CEO novel Chapter 478

The Sterling Group didn't even need to release a formal statement. Other elite families and moguls immediately followed suit. Expiring contracts were not renewed, ongoing negotiations were abruptly terminated, and banks began calling in their loans.

The moment news of the suspended partnerships broke, the Sutton Group's stock opened at a limit-down plummet. The shareholders panicked like a flock of startled birds, desperately dumping their shares in the company.

The most critical issue, however, was what to do with the active projects. Numerous investors were pulling their funding, and the banks were demanding immediate repayment.

The Sutton Group had limited cash flow, and they were rapidly approaching a total financial collapse.

Dexter Whitmore slammed his hands on the table, his face red with fury. "I move that we immediately strip Lilith of all her titles within the Sutton Group!"

Lilith no longer had the overwhelming confidence she possessed in previous meetings. When a person loses their backing, their words lose all their weight.

Stripped of her usual arrogance, Lilith gritted her teeth, swallowing her rage. "Do you think you own the Sutton Group, Dexter? You think you can just fire me on a whim?"

"It's not just me," Dexter sneered, gesturing to the other board members. "Everyone here agrees."

The other directors nodded in rapid succession.

Every single person in this boardroom had heard the rumors about Lilith's scandal.

Lilith had severely cuckolded Xavier, and a divorce was inevitable.

Her entire business value relied on the massive backing of the Sterling Group. Since that mountain had just crumbled and crushed her, she was entirely useless to them now.

The company was sinking because of her. If they didn't kick her out now, what were they waiting for? Christmas?

In the corporate world, loyalty only lasted as long as the profit margin. When someone was useful, they were treated like royalty. When they became a liability, they were thrown to the wolves.

Furthermore, Lilith was only the Acting CEO. She had built no real foundation or loyalty within the company. Naturally, no one was going to step up and defend her.

Lilith looked desperately at Bennett Sutton.

Catching the look, Dexter spoke up. "Mr. Sutton, I assume you won't object this time, right? Because if you do, I'll move to have you replaced as well."

Bennett had been hospitalized for a heart attack the day before, and he was currently attending the meeting with an IV drip still hooked to his arm. The sudden illness made him look significantly older and frailer.

He had already cashed in every ounce of his remaining goodwill to protect Lilith previously. He had absolutely no leverage left to beg for favors.

Given the sheer magnitude of the crisis, it was objectively impossible for Lilith to remain as Acting CEO.

If she stayed, the Sutton Group would be dragged into bankruptcy alongside her.

"Dad!" Lilith cried out, refusing to accept defeat. "Xavier and I are just having a temporary argument. I can win him back. Just give me a little more time."

Dexter sneered. "And what if you can't? Are you planning to drag the entire Sutton Group to the grave with you? Besides..."

Dexter's tone sharpened into a vicious mock. "What man on earth would ever forgive a woman who made him the ultimate cuckold?"

The others remained silent, but mocking smirks began to play on their lips as well.

Furious, Lilith slammed her hands on the table. "Dexter Whitmore!"

Dexter smiled back at her coldly. "Please remember your place, Director Sutton. You are no longer the wife of the Sterling Group's CEO."

"Xavier Sterling resigned as CEO a long time ago. Even if you manage to crawl back to him, so what? Are you still living in your little fantasy of being the untouchable billionaire's wife?"

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