Novel Square
Chapter 982
Late night at the Burke Estate.
Rick led James to Gordon's study.
Tonight, there wasn't a single Aldridge family member on guard. Seeing Gordon's laid-back demeanor, James asked, "Aren't you worried about getting caught inviting me over?"
Jenna, Adler, Angelo, and Sandy had all been staying here recently. If Sophie and Colby were to return in the middle of the night, there'd be no way to keep this meeting a secret. Gordon, unruffled, replied, "Colby's still in the hospital, thanks to you. They won't be back anytime soon."
"What about Angelo and Sandy?"
"Isn't Angelo your guy? Are you really worried he'll rat you out?"
Gordon always had this knack for being in control, making it hard to read his mind.
Rick offered James a seat and poured him some tea.Property of Nô)(velDr(a)ma.Org.
Gordon continued, "By taking action, you've completely turned Sophie against you. With the media buzz, your position as CEO of Burke International is on the line. Are you really ready to let that go?" "I stopped wanting to be CEO of Burke International a long time ago."
James shot a glance at Gordon and said, "I don't believe you don't want to retire."
If the burden of the Aldridge family fell on someone else, they'd be exhausted in three days. Thankfully, it was Gordon in front of him, who had managed such a vast family enterprise for so many years.
Leaning back in his chair, Gordon remarked, "But Sophie isn't an idiot. If you suddenly tried to kill her today, she'd definitely suspect your motives."
"In Sophie's eyes, I'm the one who always puts the Burke family's interests first. She might question my reckless actions, but she won't doubt my motive."
James set his teacup down and, after a brief silence, said, "Mr. Gordon, I'll leave the rest to you."
With this incident, once the
three-month period is up, and Sophie
takes over Burke International, no one will have anything to say. After all, Sophie has the backing of Devonport's four major families. She's the head of S Corporation and the former lady of Burke
International. With Colby watching
her back and the power
transfer
agreement they signed earlier, Burke International's shareholders will
likely ditch him, the CEO with a nasty
record of attempted murder.
Making money is what truly matters. Whether Burke International still carries the Burke name doesn't mean much to those shareholders.
"This matter doesn't need my worry
yet. However, Mr. Burke, you'll have to lay low for a few days. You can't show your face. I've prepared a private residence for you in the suburbs; stay there for a while."
"Putting on an act for a private residence, that's more lucrative than being the head of Burke International."
James stood up, joking lightly. At that moment, he felt incredibly relieved. Being the CEO of Burke International had worn him out for most of his life, as if he'd never lived
for himself. The stab at Colby today felt exhilarating.
Rick opened the door for James. With his back to Gordon, James waved and said, "I hope one day, Mr. Gordon, you can also lay down your burden like me."
"The burden on your back might come off, but the one in your heart is tougher to shed, James. What traps you isn't Burke International; it's you."
After finishing, Gordon turned his chair away and said, "Rick, see the guest out."
"Yes, sir."
As James reached the second-floor staircase, he noticed Angelo, dressed in cartoon pajamas, sneaking around. Seeing this, James approached and asked, "What are you up to?"