CHAPTER 74

Chapter 74 Tricked

William’s gaze seemed to suggest something profound. But Emelle, feeling dizzy, unwell, and burdened by heavy thoughts, wasn’t in the mood to delve deeper.

Even if he wasn’t considering firing Melanie, there was nothing she could do about it.

All she could do was subtly hint to Samuel to remind his sister not to get too emotionally invested in William.

However, William casually mentioned, “You’re the head secretary.

“She works under you. If you think it’s not working out and you want to let her go, go ahead. You don’t need to consult me about these trivial

Emelie wondered if that meant Williams agreed to fire Melanie

William was always like this, making it hard for people to figure out what he was really thinking

What Melanie said was actually quite true. William had the kind of allure that stirred one’s desire to conquer, to witness his true self.

However, Emelie had tried and failed miserably.

She no longer dared to pursue his affection. All she wished for now was for him to peacefully let her g

William got up and approached Enselie. She instinctively lifted her head as he reached out and held her chin…

“You’re aware that Swanson Corporation and Cloudex Corporation have significant business overlaps and are competitors, don’t you?

“I trust I don’t need to remind you about the importance of avoiding potential conflicts of interest. Keep your distance from Samuel, got it?” he said, making his point clear.

Emelie clarified, “Mr. Swanson and I are just friends. We never ta

talk about business.

“Besides, he’s a lecturer, solely focused on teaching Swanson Corporation’s affairs aren’t his concem.

William shook her chin. “Did he actually tell you that?”

“That’s i

s just my own conclusion

“If you’re concerned about Swanson Corporation accessing Cloudex Corporation’s trade secrets, perhaps you shouldn’t have agreed to have Melanie as your secretary in the first place.

“Secretaries have access to more confidential documents,” Emelie replied.

William pondered for a moment and asked, “So, are you feeling jealous of Melanie, or are you trying to defend Samuel?”

Emelie paused briefly before replying. “Neither. I’m just discussing the matter as it is.”

William grew impatient. “In any case, I need you to keep your distance from Samuel.”

Releasing her chin, he gestured toward the door. “Since you’re finished here, let’s go!

Emelie pursed her lips and stood up.

William offered his arm, and she took it as they walked together to the dining room.

The lunch meeting was casual, with a buffet–style setup

Still, William took advantage of the occasion to negotiate a one–year supply contract with two companies.

True to the positioning of this cruise ship, opportunities were everywhere.

However, Emelie felt uncomfortable under the gaze of one of the clients.

Despite this, William was enjoying his conversation with him. So Emelie made an excuse to step away from the table temporarily, heading to the restroom

While washing her hands at the sink, another woman entered and started applying makeup.

Emelie glanced at the mirror and recognized her as the client’s companion. She gave a polite nod and prepared to return to the table.

The woman’s voice took on a teasing lilt. “So, you’re a secretary, huh? That explains why you’re different. How did you manage to upset your boss?”

Emelie furrowed her brows. “What do you mean?”

The woman looked at her from head to toe. “Really? You don’t know? There’s a little secret activity on this cruise: partner swapping “Partner swapping?”

“Wow, you seriously didn’t know?” The woman laughed, noticing Emelie’s confusion.

Chapter 24 Tricked

02

It hit her that Emelie had been tricked into coming here.

No wonder Emelie’s actions seemed so odd. At first, the woman thought Enelle’s Innocent demeanor was her strategy to charm or manipulate

clients.

She kindly informed Emelle, “All the women who come here are aware that we’re just bargaining chips for our bosses‘ business negotiations.

“We’re prepared to be sent to clients to secure better deals. We make good money, so it’s not a big deal.

“Ever wonder why the deals on board are cheaper? It’s because bosses negotiate best in bed!”

Silently, Emelie watched as the woman touched up her makeup and confidently walked away.

She could feel a chill creeping up from her feet to her scalp.