Chapter 47



Brent’s inquiry sliced through the room like a well-sharpened blade, demanding clarity amidst the uncertainty. “As the esteemed advisor to our company, what’s your game plan? What do you reckon your duties entail?”

The question felt overly general, like something one would hear in a standard job interview.

Jerome’s expression soured, his displeasure palpable as he bristled at Brent’s straightforwardness, ready to step in and defend Kallie from what he perceived as unnecessary scrutiny.

But Kallie, undeterred by the weight of the question, raised her hand with an air of poise and began to weave her response.

Kallie expressed her thoughts, which Jerome articulated after translation. “Since Mr. Hayes established this company out of his passion for this field, our focus should be on selecting antiques according to his preferences. There’s no need to blindly follow market trends, as we may end up being manipulated by market fluctuations. Sometimes, the market artificially inflates the value of certain antique eras, benefiting only the dealers. As a fledgling company, it’s crucial not to be swayed by such tactics and risk being exploited.

As for antique restoration and authentication, I believe we shouldn’t charge separately. Instead, we should aim to establish long-term relationships with clients who have ongoing purchasing or collecting needs. By acting as intermediaries for them, we can profit from facilitating transactions rather than just charging for labor.”

Brent, unable to understand sign language, awaited Jerome’s translation for each sentence.

As Jerome conveyed Kallie’s words, his satisfaction visibly grew. “‘You see, how could an apprentice personally mentored by Roderick not grasp business matters? Kallie’s proposal far surpasses yours, don’t you agree?” he asked Brent.

Just moments ago, Brent had reservations about Kallie’s abilities, but now, his expression betrayed no hint of complacency.

Initially, his strategy had been to capitalize on market trends, buying and selling antiques for profit.

However, Kallie’s insightful explanation illuminated the risks involved in such a venture. Her thoughts underscored the potential pitfalls of blindly following market trends, especially for a company of their scale. Her proposal offered a more sustainable approach, aligning with the company’s long-term goals.

Before Jerome could prompt him, Brent reached for his glass and swiftly drained its contents in a single gulp. “I owe you an apology. I underestimated your abilities,” he admitted, his tone contrite. “I only heard about your marriage…” He paused, tactfully choosing his words. “Since your marriage, you’ve been at home, and I had no idea you still possessed such acumen.”

“She’s Roderick’s most promising student!” Jerome interjected proudly. “At one point, when Jake…” he trailed off, coughing and shifting the subject vaguely. “Roderick had intended for Kallie to take over the family business!”

Kallie’s astonishment was palpable. She hadn’t been aware of this revelation, but Jerome swiftly diverted the conversation elsewhere.

“Regardless, Kallie, we would be honored to have you as our advisor,” Jerome said solemnly, his expression earnest as he awaited her response. “What do you think?”

Kallie shook her head gently, offering Jerome a warm smile.

She fumbled for words to form her reply, gesturing her need to ponder over this since she had to take certain matters into account.

Kallie struggled to explain her dilemma. Jake’s reluctance for her to work outside the home weighed heavily on her decision. Currently, she was technically apprenticing at Hayden’s studio, which offered her flexibility with her hours. Accepting a formal advisory role might exacerbate tensions with Jake and likely disrupt their already delicate balance, potentially bringing trouble to the Hayes family.

Kallie’s hesitance surprised Jerome, and Brent raised his glass in a gesture of understanding. “‘Kallie, was it because of my earlier demeanor? If so, I apologize once more…”

Kallie shook her head hurriedly, assuring them that it wasn’t the case.

Fidgeting with her fingers, Kallie clarified awkwardly that it was her family members who might be against her taking up the offer.

With her words, understanding dawned on everyone, and a thoughtful silence settled over the group.

Jake’s extramarital affair with Sarah, coupled with rumors of him with other women, was no secret among their circle. There was an unspoken sympathy for Kallie, the silent and generous wife.

As Kallie revealed Jake’s reluctance to let her work outside the home, disapproval flickered across their faces. However, they knew better than to interfere in others’ family affairs. Jerome sighed softly before making his offer. “Ten million annual salary, minimum three-year contract. Kallie, when you’ve made your decision, reach out to either me or Brent. We’ll be waiting for your response.”

By the time they finished their meal and left the restaurant, Kallie felt like she was in a dream. Jerome had offered a ten million annual salary, with an immediate payment of one year’s salary upon signing the contract.

In essence, agreeing to the offer meant she could secure twenty million within a year, enough to free herself from Jake’s grasp.

Previously, Kallie had doubted her ability to amass such wealth in her lifetime. Now, everything had changed. It turned out she was more capable than she had ever imagined.

Back then, Roderick had personally instructed Kallie in business matters. As a mute woman, understanding these concepts was essential for her self-protection. It was regrettable that she had ultimately chosen the path of a wife confined to the home, conforming to Jake’s desires and disappointing Roderick in the process.

Reflecting on the dinner conversation with Jerome and Brent, Kallie couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of hope.

Perhaps they truly recognized her capabilities. She had been labeled as Jake’s worthless wife in the past, but it was her own choices that had led to that perception. If she could showcase her skills in the future, perhaps more people would take notice of her competence.

Lost in these thoughts, Kallie returned to the car, only to find Gilbert, the driver, looking slightly panicked. “Madam, Mr. Reeves has called four times, inquiring about your return,” he informed her urgently.

They had been at dinner for two hours, meaning Jake had called every half hour to check on Kallie.

Kallie’s muscles tensed, a sinking feeling settling in her stomach.

.

.

.