Beyond the Divorce

 A Difficult Collaboration

I continued, "But there was a breach of contract, and I regret that. However, Ms. Eleanor handled the aftermath exceptionally well. She assured me that if needed, she would go all out to coordinate with the leading distributors and act as a bridge for us.

"After all, I made it clear that this involved construction materials. Although the breach disrupted our plans, fortunately, it didn't result in any losses."

Of course, Andrea wasn't buying it. She played hardball, saying, "The villain has finally got a chance to turn things around, right?"

"Mrs. Andrea, it's not about me turning things around. It's about you losing the best opportunity!" I stared at her, confidently stating, "Otherwise, Surface Solutions would’ve been the supplier for the entire new Bourdamun project. Unfortunately, you messed up a good hand."

I directly shifted the blame to Andrea, making Vernon regret deeply and exposing Andrea's true colors.

"After that incident, your friend Liora used it to propagate against Tanum extensively. It made me determined to find an honest company, and that's why I had reservations about Surface Solutions's flip-flopping.

"Eleanor's resignation was surprising and, honestly, the happiest news for me. I called her because I believed in her excellent business capabilities and ethics, contrary to what you claimed about her being an opportunist.

"So, Mrs. Andrea, your judgment of people is questionable. Eleanor, who you think is an opportunist, is quite particular," I said with a hint of mockery. "When she turned me down, I persisted and finally managed to bring Eleanor to Tanum. However, she clarified that she wanted to exit the tile market. I explained the work here, and only then did she choose to stay. I'm truly grateful I didn't misjudge her," I sincerely expressed.

"And this time, I've already told her we won't discuss Surface Solutions. Yet, she still argued for Surface Solutions with me. I believe she sees Tanum's potential and strength. That's why we're here today."

I saw Ricky glancing nervously at Vernon and Andrea. It seemed like he was trying to impress and get on their good side.

"This morning, Eleanor advocated for Surface Solutions again. She mentioned your sincerity, so I agreed that Surface Solutions could be a potential partner. She'd promote your products and may even be involved in secondary projects. This was a concession I made before our meeting." 

Vernon's face showed signs of regret.

I added firmly, "But, sorry, Mrs. Andrea, I don't trust you."

After that, I turned to Vernon. "Mr. Vernon, I'm not interested in your internal business affairs. Eleanor coming to me is a genuine acknowledgment of her capabilities. I don't want anyone criticizing my choices. It seems like our no collaboration is unnecessary," I stated decisively.

Eleanor tried to interrupt, "Ms. Chloe-"

I looked at her without wavering. "My bottom line is, I won't tolerate any disharmony in my business. So, Eleanor, please don't make it difficult for me."This belongs © NôvelDra/ma.Org.

Then, I turned to Vernon, whose face had turned purple.

"Mr. Vernon, business can't be done without integrity. But judging by Mrs. Andrea's words, she's unhappy with Eleanor and dissatisfied with me Pushing things together is unnecessary, as it might lead to unnecessary conflicts. Everyone will be unhappy with the work. 

"Besides, this is a potential hidden danger. After all, I'm working on construction development projects, and there's no room for the slightest flaw. Otherwise, it's a total loss, and I can't afford to lose."

"Chloe, don't act here as if you're something special. Don't think being in development makes you unique. Aren't you just flaunting another man's money? Is that impressive?"

I nodded immediately. "Yes, Mrs. Andrea. You're right. The man with the money is my husband."

Andrea was dumbfounded, looking at Eleanor with a half-open mouth, seemingly seeking confirmation of what I said.