Chapter 367

---- Chapter 367 "There's no need. This is only a minor personnel change within the branch. Mr. Kane doesn't have time to concern himself with it, and I hold full authority here." Giselle's voice was icy, each word cutting like a blade. The announcement struck the room like a thunderclap . The executives who had just been demoted and had their salaries cut went pale. At first, they thought she was throwing a tantrum, but when they realized she meant every word, their faces darkened. The first person to lose his cool was Jared, the R&D executive.

He had worked at the company for almost a decade and had led the development of several best-selling medicines. He had contributed a great deal to the company, and he refused to accept such a verdict. "What gives you the right to make these kinds of decisions?" he snapped and slammed the table. "You're nothing but a shameless woman who used your looks to get what you want. "You're only good as a decoration! What power do you have to demote or reduce my pay?

Do you think the company is a playground where you can throw tantrums and do anything you want?" Giselle met his angry shouts with unshaken composure and replied, "Why don't you try me and see for yourself? Here's a piece of advice, learn to discipline yourself. Since you clearly can't control your emotions, it's obvious you're unfit to serve ---- as the R&D executive." Then, she turned to the HR executive, Antonio Patton, and ordered, "Jared is terminated for insubordination , breach of discipline, and incompetence. Handle his compensation in accordance with labor laws.

As for patents and non-compete clauses, bring in legal counsel to ensure everything is settled properly." "You..." Jared's eyes widened as it dawned on him that she was serious. Panic flashed over his face, twisting his features. "You have no reason to fire me, What right do you..." "Tf you're not happy with my decision, take it up with Mr. Kane," Giselle cut him off coldly. Then she turned to look at the others in the room. "Mr. Kane appointed me as the manager, and I expect all of you to respect his decision. If any of you are dissatisfied or want to throwa fit, complain to him.

"From now on, if anyone refuses to follow my orders, please quit. I won't hesitate to let you go. If you want to stay, then do your job. If you can't stand me, you're welcome to try and get rid of me if you have the means." Her cold words silenced the entire room. The executives sat pale and subdued by the force of her authority. Though resentment burned in their hearts, no one dared to act it out. After all, Concord Pharmaceuticals was an industry leader. A senior management position here offered wealth and social status that others could only envy.

Very few would dare to ---- throw that away ina fit of anger over a new manager. It was one thing to complain in private, but to risk employment and future opportunities was another. "That's all for today's meeting." Giselle tossed a printed document from Leonard onto the table. "Go back and think on your own. Once you've decided whether you're staying or leaving, we'll continue with the meeting." Without sparing them another glance, she strode out of the room, completely unbothered by their reactions.

Back in her office, she sank into her leather chair and stretched her legs carelessly across the desk. She closed her eyes and reflected on the conflict at the meeting, feeling irritation bursting in her. Unable to shake it off, she pulled open a drawer and took out a pack of cigarettes. She slid one between her lips, lit it, and drew in a smoke. After a few puffs, the familiar, intoxicating haze swept through her mind, washing her frustration away. Giselle rarely smoked. She only smoked when she was in a bad mood to clear her head and relax her body.