Chapter 2409
Chapter 2409
"Don't be so pessimistic, Jonah," Alyssa said.
Perhaps having just seen Jasper and going through that heart-stopping moment made Alyssa emotional. Tears welled up in her eyes as she continued, "If you truly love someone, you don't need to possess him to find happiness. Isn't it enough to know he's alive, well, and living freely somewhere in this world?"
"You're right, Lyse." Sorrow filled Jonah's voice as he smiled bitterly. "Julien has already lost and sacrificed too much for my sake. I don't deserve to have such a good man. He'll only find true happiness by leaving me."
After Justin took over as CEO of Beckett Group, his first move was to wrest control of the A5 Project bid from Jasper's hands.
Though Jasper had failed as the leader of Beckett Group, as the eldest son, it was only natural for Justin to inherit the position of power.
Justin was aware of lingering opposition within the corporation. Some doubted whether he possessed the decisiveness and singular capability Jasper had demonstrated.
Securing Project A5 would silence those dissenting voices. Even Newton, with all his maneuvering, would no longer pose a threat to Justin's authority.
In the chairman's office of Beckett Group, Javier and Justin sat across from each other.
"The share price has been dropping steadily these past few days," Javier said, his tone measured. "Some have been buying up shares in secret. Thankfully, Justin, you've been able to stabilize the situation."
He placed a hand on Justin's shoulder, his gaze warm with approval. "You've never disappointed me, not even as a child. That gives me great comfort and relief.
"Thank you for your compliment." Justin's lips curled into a faint smile. With elegant precision, he lifted the teapot and poured tea for Javier. "You and Grandpa poured your lives into building Beckett Group. I'll protect it at all costs."
After a pause, Justin's tone grew contemplative. "Still, I have to ask-did you entrust me with this role because of Jasper's downfall, or have you always intended to give me a chance to prove myself?"
Javier was taken slightly aback. He was caught off guard by the question. After a moment's hesitation, he smiled and answered truthfully. "Justin, you're my eldest son. I've watched you grow into the man you are today. How could I not want to give you a chance?
"Besides, you've already proven yourself. During the crisis with the Jesseltons from Mosgravia and the prohibited drug scandal, you turned the tide and saved Beckett Group. You're more than capable of leading as CEO."
Although Javier was past his prime, he wasn't dumb. He recognized Justin's question as a subtle test.
With Jasper out of the picture, the corporation's share price in flux, and the critical A5 Project looming, Javier couldn't afford to let Justin doubt his support. Placating him was essential to Beckett Group's stability.
"Dad, I'm really glad to hear you say that." Justin chuckled softly, seemingly satisfied with the response. "Don't worry. I'll make sure we secure Project A5.Content property of NôvelDra/ma.Org.
A knock on the door interrupted their conversation.
After Javier gave his permission, Rory entered with an iPad. He walked urgently to Javier.
"Mr. Javier, even though the PR department of our corporation has tried their best to keep the online comments in control, the three major television stations are still refusing to back down. They are all state-run media stations, so can't pressure them to retract their statements."
"Damn it!" Javier hurled his cup across the room, shattering it. "We've advertised with them for years, and this is
how they repay us?"
"Simmer down, Dad. This isn't any major issue." Justin smiled, sipping his tea with an air of nonchalance. "How is this not a major issue? Negative publicity could directly jeopardize our bid for Project A5!" Javier paced, his hands clasped behind his back. "Even though we have no local competitors in Solana City, KS Group from Belbanks is also eyeing the project. If we don't secure it, they almost certainly will."
Justin's eyes narrowed, a faint, insincere smile playing on his lips. "It wouldn't be the worst thing if Ms. Alyssa won the bid. I wouldn't mind letting her have it."
"Justin, I know you're infatuated with that woman, but don't let your emotions cloud your judgment!" Javier snapped. "Look at what happened to Jasper after he got involved with that Taylor woman!"
Javier's frustration was palpable, though he knew Justin's interest in Alyssa ran deep.
"What's done is done," Justin said calmly. "There's no point trying to clear Jasper's name now. Instead, we should hold a press conference and stream it nationwide. I'll appear as CEO and deliver a heartfelt apology.
"If we can't salvage the situation, we should take responsibility openly. That might help rebuild some trust. Javier sighed. "Now that it's come to this, that's all we can do. That said, I'm still worried about the project... "Dad, leave it to me."
Leaning forward, Justin put his icy hand on the back of Javier's hand. In a slightly comforting tone, he assured," There's nothing you'd need to worry about. All you have to do is to have complete trust in me."
Just as Justin returned to his office, he found Sheryl sitting on the couch, waiting for him.