Chapter 44

Chapter 44:

Was this really considered a “small” enterprise? The towering office building alone, with its sleek architecture and high-end design, was evidence of the company’s wealth. The rent must have been astronomical, yet for the Johns family, such expenses were trivial.

“Let’s head inside,” Dane said casually as he parked the car. He led Madisyn through the lobby, their presence causing a ripple of curiosity among the employees.

“Is that Mr. Dane Johns? The president of the entire Johns Group?” whispered one employee, eyes wide with awe.

“Is he here to take over this branch? I heard we might be seeing some big changes around here,” another added, especially catching the attention of the women.

“Who’s that with him? His girlfriend?”

“No way! Mr. Johns doesn’t have a girlfriend. He’s too focused on work. But maybe she’s one of those rich heiresses after him.”

Ignoring the whispers, Dane led Madisyn into the president’s office. The previous manager had been dismissed the day before due to poor performance, and no one had protested the decision.

Soon after they arrived, a woman in a sharp white suit entered the room. Her presence was commanding, her features refined—though noticeably enhanced by cosmetic procedures. This was Mina Atkins, the vice president.

Her gaze lingered on Dane as she greeted him with a bright, almost possessive smile. “Mr. Johns, are we having a meeting? You didn’t mention you’d be coming.”

Mina had heard rumors of a leadership change, but she hadn’t expected Dane to personally oversee the transition. The company must be gaining new importance within the group, she thought, barely acknowledging Madisyn’s presence.

“Yes, we’re about to hold a meeting. Please gather everyone in the conference room,” Dane replied, all business.

Mina nodded briskly and left to make the arrangements. As soon as she was gone, Madisyn began looking over the documents on the desk, but before she could get too far, Dane received a call. “I’ll be right back,” he said, stepping outside.

Moments later, Mina returned, clearly expecting to find Dane. Instead, she saw only Madisyn, who was focused on the paperwork.

“Did you notify everyone already?” Madisyn asked, not looking up from the files.

Mina’s eyes narrowed. Who is this girl? She hadn’t noticed her before, but now she took in her youthful appearance and refined beauty, and irritation flickered in her mind. Another pretty face trying to get ahead through Dane?

“Yes,” Mina said curtly, her tone tinged with disdain. “Where’s Mr. Johns?”

“He stepped out to take a call. You can discuss anything with me,” Madisyn replied confidently.

Mina’s lips curled into a sneer. “Excuse me? And who exactly are you?”

Madisyn looked up, her brows furrowed. “Is there a problem?”

Mina laughed, incredulous. “Let me guess—you’re one of Mr. Johns’ suitors, thinking you can charm your way up the ladder?”

Madisyn was taken aback by the audacity, but she remained composed.

“I suggest you not waste your time,” Mina continued, dismissing her with a wave. “Mr. Johns only cares about his work.”

Choosing to ignore the baseless assumptions, Madisyn turned her attention back to the documents. But Mina wasn’t done. She marched over and yanked the papers from Madisyn’s hands.

“These are confidential documents! What do you think you’re doing?”

Madisyn’s patience was wearing thin. “Give them back,” she demanded, her tone firm.

Mina’s eyes flashed with arrogance. “What are you going to do about it? You’re just a pretty girl trying to cozy up to Mr. Johns. You have no right to be here.”

Before Madisyn could respond, the door opened, and Dane walked back in.

“What’s going on?” His voice was sharp, eyes shifting from Madisyn’s composed yet irritated stance to Mina’s haughty demeanor.

Mina quickly softened her tone. “Mr. Johns, I’ve gathered everyone in the conference room. Shall we begin?”

Without missing a beat, Madisyn stood and said calmly, “Let’s go.”

Dane nodded in agreement, and they headed to the conference room together. Mina trailed behind, her earlier confidence shaken.

Inside the conference room, employees murmured amongst themselves as they eyed Dane. His presence immediately commanded attention.

“Mr. Johns is even more handsome in person!”

“If he’s going to be the new president, I’ll definitely enjoy coming to work.”

“Focus! We’re here for the meeting!” someone scolded, restoring some semblance of professionalism.

Dane stepped up to the podium, and the room fell silent. His presence alone demanded respect. “For too long, this branch has been overlooked. Starting today, that ends. We are committed to revitalizing this company and making it thrive.”

The applause that followed was started by Mina, eager to impress Dane, and quickly spread throughout the room.

“And now,” Dane continued, “I’d like to introduce your new president—Madisyn Johns.”

Stunned silence settled over the crowd.

Mina’s eyes widened in disbelief. This woman?

As the reality sank in, all eyes turned to Madisyn, whose calm, poised demeanor radiated confidence.

“Hello, everyone. I’m Madisyn Johns. I’m honored to be leading this company, and I’m committed to ensuring its success. Together, we will take this company to new heights.”

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