The Heiress’ Return: Six Brothers at Her Beck and Call (Wynter Quinnell) novel Chapter 1968

"From this moment on, the Chamber of Commerce is no longer controlled by foreign powers," Wynter said coolly.

"We are cutting all cooperation with foreign entities, effective immediately. No more assistance of any kind will be provided to them, including you guys. Anyone who disobeys will be expelled from the chamber.

"This was my great-great-grandfather's wish when he founded the chamber. A true gentleman knows what he should and should not do. We do not bow for a mere pittance.

"Soon, there will be a major reshuffling in Havenia. Those who pass the test may remain in the chamber. We can all make money, but only within Cascadia."

Conrad and Antoine quickly echoed her declaration. "We'll follow your lead, Ms. Quinnell."

A few people's expressions darkened. They had hoped that with Charis gone, someone else would take over and continue making money for them. Who would have thought Wynter, upon becoming chairman, would immediately cut off their source of income?

"Isn't this a little rash for you to do right after taking office?"

"We've been working with foreign entities for years. Cutting them off like this, whether we're making money or not, may cause them to overthink and believe we're messing with them."

Wynter's gaze grew cold. "When did the chamber become so dependent on foreign cooperation to survive? Is this what Charis taught you—that we're nothing without foreign capital?"

Those people instantly changed their tone. "That's not what we meant. It's just that development in Havenia is limited. Hence, expanding internationally and aligning with global markets is the optimal path."

Their voices rose in agreement, and some others in the room nodded thoughtfully.

"They're not wrong. Connecting with foreign capital has its advantages. I'm just speaking from a neutral standpoint."

"What about the rest of you? Do you feel the same?"

No one answered. They simply lowered their heads. After all, who would willingly turn away from profit? Making money could raise their status and give them a foothold on the global stage.

"It seems you guys have joined the chamber purely for personal gain." Wynter looked up at the group before continuing, "You may leave now. The chamber has no need for you."

The group froze in disbelief. "What? Are you really kicking us out right after taking office, Ms. Quinnell?"

"Can we not even be honest anymore? It's hard to make money nowadays and even harder to survive. Foreign investors have money and resources. Why shouldn't we work with them?"

"Exactly! He said what we were all thinking. I can't believe your first order as the chairman is to fire us all."

"Well, we'll go if the chairman wants us gone. Just don't come crying to us when the chamber runs into trouble later."

"Exactly. We'll leave!"

Wynter ordered the doors to be opened, showing no intention of stopping them.

As they walked out, some began to feel that something was off.

One of them turned around. "Ms. Quinnell, we're really leaving. Once we step through that door, don't come begging us to come back."

"Take care," Wynter said, waving them off. "The chamber doesn't need ornaments."

"You—" The group, fuming, walked out without looking back.

The only ones left at the scene were Baxter, Antoine, Conrad, and a few chamber members who chose to stay.

They say talented people were common, but true mentors were rare. Everyone had their own opinions and ideas, but to find someone whose values align with your own was something truly few and far between.

Wynter looked at everyone still present. "The Havenia Chamber of Commerce is more than enough with all of you here."

Antoine stepped forward. "Ms. Quinnell, what should we do next?"

"Next…" Wynter began, but just then, a message popped up on her phone. She glanced at it, then put the phone away. "The chamber will be temporarily handed over to Mr. Hensley Senior. The rest of you will assist him. I'm counting on you all."

Baxter hesitated. "Isn't it a bit much for you to hand this over to me, Ms. Quinnell?"

"I trust you, Mr. Hensley Senior." Wynter stepped closer and lowered her voice so only the two of them could hear. "You still have to guide your grandson. I'll be at ease with you handling this."

Baxter had never encountered a situation like this before. The chairman was a position many people dreamed of, yet Wynter didn't even hesitate when handing it to him.

"There's still something I need to take care of." Wynter turned and headed for the door. "Antoine, I'll leave the rest of the cleanup to you."

Antoine nodded. "Of course, Ms. Quinnell. You can leave it to me."

Baxter watched her go as he muttered, "Ms. Quinnell is the most formidable young lady I've ever met."

Antoine walked over. "Ms. Quinnell wants to break free from outdated expectations. A woman should have her own career and do what she loves. There's no rule that says a woman must stay at home and be a wife and mother. She's showing the world she can pave her own path."

"Well said," Baxter echoed with a nod. Then, he turned to Alaskey. "Alaskey, you should take Ms. Quinnell as your role model. Learn from her."

Alaskey nodded firmly.