When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 41

Vinson didn't sugarcoat his words, and Clyde's eyes locked onto him. Then, out of nowhere, Clyde cracked a smile. "Ah, so Ms. Crawford's talent caught your eye. Mr. Russell, you have a knack for spotting the good ones."

"Well then, Melanie, let's make this collaboration work. Let's keep all communications within the office, shall we? It would be easier to manage any issues that way."

Clyde’s last sentence carried a hidden meaning, but I pretended not to catch it. "Mr. Patterson's right. Let's get down to business and not waste any more time. After all, we've kept Aspire World waiting far too long due to some people's blunders."

Kayla tugged gently at Clyde's sleeve. "Mr. Patterson, didn't we agree that I'd be involved in this project, too?"

I knew she was eager to join the project. Not just for the commission, but the bragging rights of having worked with Aspire World were too good to pass up.

But I wasn't about to give her that chance. "Sorry, this project doesn't need direct supervision from the Administrative Department, right? Besides, you are not even a regular employee yet, are you?"

Kayla was still just an intern, not even a full-time employee yet. So naturally, she didn't have the right to be part of such an important project.

She glared at me with frustration evident in her eyes. "This project was initially my responsibility, and Mr. Jenkins had said..."

"You mean Bill? Sorry, but Mr. Jenkins is currently under internal investigation and won't be managing this project." Vinson glanced at Kayla. "This financial case could have widespread implications. Ms. Osborne, you're close with him?"

At the mention of potential criminal involvement, Kayla almost freaked out and turned to Clyde. "Clyde..."

"Mr. Patterson, we're about to start the meeting. Are you sure you want your assistant to sit in? Or are you planning to force someone on me?" Vinson had settled back into his seat, his team members pulling out laptops to take notes.

Clyde's throat bobbed as he struggled, finally managing a strained smile. "You go ahead with the meeting. I've got work to do. Ms. Crawford, come to my office once the meeting is over."

I nodded slightly, signaling my understanding, then took my seat. I knew what was on Clyde's mind. He was worried I might go out for lunch with Vinson. But I wasn't about to go along with everything he wanted.

Without further interruptions, the meeting progressed much more smoothly. Vinson's expertise in design had grown over the years, quickly offering constructive suggestions.

I watched him excitedly. "You're not doing design work anymore?"

He shook his head, then glanced at his team. "The company needs me elsewhere. I can't focus on design work, but I can offer some ideas."

His assistant interrupted, "Mr. Russell is the future of Aspire World. Where would he find the time for design work?"

I stared at Vinson, and he cleared his throat awkwardly. "Today's discussion went so well. Let's all go out for dinner on me."

His proposal was met with cheers.

"Hooray! That's why you're the boss, the one and only Mr. Russell! I'm craving a steak buffet!"