Shooting Marina a frigid look, she asked, “Why did things get out of control after you becCEO? How did Jefferson’s actions escape your notice? You're utterly useless!” Marina, feeling unjustly accused, retorted, “Grandma, I've been tirelessly working to steady the Bryant Group these past few days.
Jefferson has Long been part of the company, and | trusted him. How is this my fault? If anyone is to blame, it's that vile traitor Marco. Why didn’t he foresee Jefferson's ill intentions when he was still with the Bryant Group?” Liza was well acquainted with Marina's nature.
Working tirelessly? Inwardly, she scoffed at Marina's ludicrous claim of diligent work.
Liza regretted appointing Marina as the CEO and, displaying a disinterested demeanor, closed her eyes.
“Since you've proven incapable of holding this position, transfer your shares to me. That way, I'll retain the majority stake, thwarting Jefferson’s plans.” Marina’s refusal was instantaneous. “No! Why should | surrender my shares? | won't!” She had worked strenuously to amass her shares and was just starting to savor the power and admiration they brought. If she surrendered her shares, she’d be left with nothing. Her fair-weather friends would scorn her for her loss of power. She was unwilling to return to a life of destitution.
Liza opened her eyes, her gaze icy and unyielding.
“You refuse? The shares are wasted in your possession. You're not surrendering them to a stranger!” Marina’s plea continued. When Laura heard the commotion, she arrived and attempted to coax Liza without openly contradicting her. “Mom, a Marina is a novice at running the company. It’s understandable that she’s made serrors. If you abruptly confiscate her shares, she'll lose the chance to learn and improve. It will also impede her future succession of the Bryant Group.” Liza remained indifferent to their pleas and retorted icily, “Marco was also a first-timer, and we never faced such issues back then.” The mention of Marco muted everyone. Liza's mood darkened further, and she sighed, “Fine, since Marina is eager to learn and grow, | won't demand too much. Transfer 10% of the shares to me, and we'll confront Jefferson as a united front.” Liza glanced at the disgruntled Marina, asserting, “If you persist in your refusal, | won't hesitate to retrieve them forcibly!” Marina’s face turned ashen, and Laura forced a conciliatory smile, stating, “We'll respect your decision. The final call is yours.” Content with their responses, Liza departed. Once she was gone, Marina expressed her frustration, “Mom, why should I relinquish my shares? They're rightfully mine! And 10% represents a significant amount!” Laura, too, was discontented but attempted to soothe Marina. “It’s only temporary. Let your grandmother deal with Jefferson first. Marina, you're now the Bryant Group's sole heir. Are you afraid it won't be yours eventually? Your grandmother doesn’t have many years left, and when she passes, even her shares will fall into our hands!” Marina couldn’t help but imagine a future where she’d inherit Liza's shares. Coupled with her current stake, she'd hold a whopping 60%!