As soon as Zach arrived, all the cameras pointed at him. He looked straight ahead and took the most important seat. Cecilia, serving as the Deputy CEO of Jardin Corporation, sat right next to him.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtThe room buzzed when Zach came in. Every reporter held up the day's newspaper, ready for the scoop. Right when Zach sat down, a reporter asked the first question.
"Mr. Jardin, is what is reported in today's paper correct? Have you really called off your engagement with Yvonne Young? And if so, was the decision based on the belief that there's no longer any value in the alliance with her family's company, YTCorp?" Zach answered, "Calling off my engagement with her doesn't change our relationship with YTCorp. We work in different areas, and their agreement with Jardin Corporation is meant to last." Before Zach could continue, another journalist jumped in with a new question, "So, are the rumors of you and Yvonne Young having troubles true?" Kevin firmly answered, "Please, we're not here to talk about Mr. Jardin's private life. This conference is for questions about the company's operations and future plans.” A young reporter with a hint of curiosity asked, "Mr. Jardin, as the CEO of Jardin Corporation and a public figure, could you please share more details during this conference?" After briefly checking his phone, the reporter continued, "There's speculation online that your engagement to Yvonne Young was broken off because you've been in a discreet relationship with someone you've financially supported for the past four years. She was studying in France and has only recently returned. And there have been reports of her being seen with a child. Is the child yours? If so, is that why your engagement ended?" Cecilia glanced at Zach beside her with a hint of smug satisfaction. She silently mused about Madelyn's fate without Zach, 'In your past life, you amounted to nothing. It seems nothing has changed; two lifetimes, yet no advancement. What's left for you once Zach is out of the picture?" Her thoughts were interrupted by the buzz of excitement from the reporters seated below. They were capturing every moment of the rare press conference, focusing on the leading figure of Ventropolis onstage.
Cecilia leaned closer and whispered to Zach, "I understand you're considering giving Madelyn an official role. Just be aware that first impressions are powerful. If you end your engagement with Yvonne, Madelyn could be branded as a homewrecker. That's unless you decide to announce that Yvonne and Ethan have met with a tragic accident during their overseas journey." Widowers remarrying was common, but Zach's situation was delicate. Exposing past scandals could devastate his reputation. He might have had no choice but to disclose his past if he wanted to change how people viewed Madelyn. Without his honesty, Madelyn risked being labeled as nothing more than a kept woman, even as his lawful wife.
Cecilia quietly wagered that Zach would keep Madelyn's matters to himself. Yet, without giving Cecilia a single look, Zach leaned back, grasped the microphone, and settled into his chair with an air of nonchalance.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"Those of you eager to learn about her," Zach said coolly, "are welcome to a private interview in my office after this press conference.” The rest of the reporters had picked up on Zach's stern vibe. Clearly, the inquiring journalist was a newcomer who was bold enough to broach such topics.
"Our PR team specifically stated that we're not addressing any private matters at today's press conference,” Zach said as he rose from his seat and made his way to the edge of the stage. A silent respect filled the room; everyone's gaze followed him intently. Then, the focus shifted to the young journalist who looked to be in their early twenties.
Clad in a crisp black suit, Zach nonchalantly put one hand in his pocket. He carried himself effortlessly, and each gesture carried an unspoken command. In Jardin Corporation, Zach was a force to be reckoned with. His influence was felt well beyond the conference room walls.