Chapter 342 Suspicions Surrounding Reese
Upon her arrival, Reese found Calvin already there, his fingers dancing rapidly over the keys of his laptop. Without missing a beat, she ordered a cup of coffee, the much–needed antidote to her sleepless night.
The waitress was swift in her service, and Reese’s coffee arrived promptly. After a few sips, the caffeine began to work its magic, sharpening her senses. She turned to Calvin, her voice steady as she asked, “So, have you managed to sort things out?”
Calvin paused his typing, his gaze meeting hers. “I have. Now is the best opportunity, given that we’re unsure if Malcolm has begun to make his move.” His words were a confirmation of his progress and a stark reminder of the urgency of their situation.
Throughout the night, Calvin had labored diligently, his hopes pinned on a favorable outcome. It was in their best interest to gain an upper hand in the negotiations with the Harmony Alliance, rather than make unnecessary sacrifices.
It was important to note the long–standing animosity between the Harmony Alliance and Nolan, a feud that spanned several generations. Instances of violence had marred their history, and rumors swirled that the former leader of the Harmony Alliance had plotted against Nolan’s organization, meeting an unfortunate end. The relationship between the two organizations had been strained, deteriorating with each passing year, yet they had never engaged in open competition.
Reese voiced her uncertainty about Malcolm’s current situation. “I’m not sure either,” she admitted, her time and energy too limited to track Malcolm’s every move.
Casually, Calvin proposed, “Alright. Let’s move this project along.”
“I’d prefer if someone else delivered it. I need to talk to you,” Reese responded, her early morning arrival serving a purpose beyond the mere delivery of the project.
Calvin nodded in understanding. “Alright, Reese. I’ll arrange for someone.”
Reese further requested a change in the branch location, a precautionary measure to avoid arousing Malcolm’s suspicion.
“I understand,” Calvin agreed, taking the project and leaving Reese to enjoy her coffee and sandwich in peace.
Upon his return, Calvin confirmed the completion of all tasks. “Reese, he began, his tone serious, “Is this about the Harmony
Alliance?”
Reese met his gaze, her expression grave. “Yes, I’ve had suspicions about Malcolm’s affiliation with the Harmony Alliance for a while
now.”
Calvin was quick to grasp her concern. “Have you noticed anything unusual?”
“I’m beginning to doubt Malcolm’s current position within the organization,” Reese confessed, her worries extending beyond the Harmony Alliance to the potential threat Malcolm could pose in the future.
Calvin seemed uncertain. “The main concern is whether you can successfully separate from Nolan, regardless of Malcolm’s status within the Harmony Alliance. This way, we wouldn’t be enemies and wouldn’t need to scheme against each other in the future.”
Reese shook her head, her doubts about the possibility of breaking free from Nolan and avoiding future conflicts evident. “If I could do it, do you think I would have waited until now?”
Calvin, well–acquainted with Nolan’s cunning nature and aware of his organization’s relentless pursuit of Reese, acknowledged the challenge. He knew Reese’s strength, and he knew she wouldn’t back down without a fight.
“In that case, we should investigate Malcolm’s background first. Why not be upfront with him, Reese?” Calvin suggested, believing in Malcolm’s sincerity towards Reese and considering the possibility of revealing their concerns to him.
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Chapter 342 Suspicions Surrounding Reese
Reese, however, disagreed. How can I verify Malcolm’s honesty? There are factors beyond our control, and we all have our reasons.” She feared that if she couldn’t find the answers she sought, it might raise Malcolm’s suspicions.
“Then let’s address the Harmony Alliance issue first, Calvin concluded, recognizing the complexity of their situation and the need
for further deliberation.
Reese yawned, stretching her arms as she rose from her seat. I still have to make an appearance at the company,” she said, her voice carrying a hint of fatigue. “You should head back and concentrate on your tasks.“.
Calvin looked at her, surprise etching itself onto his face. “Reese, you’re returning to the office? Why not rest first?”
“I appreciate your concern, Calvin,” Reese replied, her tone steady. “But my absence might raise eyebrows, especially after being up all night. It might be best if you delegate the project proposal to someone else. It’s not wise for you to show up anymore.” She paused, her gaze unwavering. “Malcolm has been suspicious of you from the start. If he finds any proof, things will only get more complicated.”
“I understand. I’ll handle it,” Calvin said, his words quick and decisive before he made his exit.
Reese spent the rest of the afternoon at the company, her energy sustained by a steady intake of coffee.
Meanwhile, Malcolm sat in his office, anticipation gnawing at him as he awaited news about the project.
“Malcolm… The sound of his name made Malcolm frown, especially when he noticed Justin’s anxious demeanor.
Our proposal was rejected, Malcolm,” Justin blurted out, disbelief tinging his words. Malcolm had personally overseen the project; the outcome was unexpected.
Malcolm’s eyes widened momentarily at Justin’s revelation. “What happened?” he asked, his voice steady despite his surprise.
Justin seemed to be gasping for breath. “I’m not entirely sure. But from the information we received, our proposal was taken by a company named Swift Horizon Innovations.”
Malcolm’s confusion deepened. “Swift Horizon Innovations? I’ve never heard of them.”
“Upon further investigation, it appears they’ve been operating under the radar for a while. But it’s clear they hold considerable power,” Justin replied, implying they had enough influence to hijack their deal.
Justin mirrored Malcolm’s frustration, falling silent. He had been optimistic about the project’s success, especially with Malcolm’s involvement. But now they found themselves up against an unforeseen competitor.
Malcolm rubbed his temples, a sense of unease creeping over him. The timing was too convenient. He had finalized the proposal just yesterday and submitted it today. It was almost as if the other party knew about the project before it was even announced. Only those with substantial clout in the industry could have such information.
After a moment of contemplation, Malcolm instructed, “Find out who the legal representative of this company is.”
Justin seemed to understand Malcolm’s line of thought. “Do you suspect someone, Malcolm?”
Ignoring Justin’s question, Malcolm asked, “Where’s Reese?”
“Reese… arrived at the office around ten this morning, but she seemed really exhausted,” Justin replied. He had noticed Reese nodding off at her desk, but couldn’t be sure if it was due to lack of sleep.
The more Malcolm pondered, the more he felt something was amiss. He instructed Justin, “Find out what Reese has been doing.”
Justin looked puzzled. “Are you suspecting Reese, Malcolm?”
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Fall in Love with the Dominant Billionaire
