Chapter 699

Timothy’s swift intervention promptly stabilized the situation.

Observing his opponent’s screen, Timothy’s lips curled into a cold smirk before initiating a

counterattack.

Nonetheless, the hacker displayed no intention of relenting. The confrontation persisted within the

company’s internal systems, with both sides refusing to yield.

The staff in the technical department exchanged uncertain looks, puzzled by the unfolding situation.

Paul McKenna, the technical manager, wiped his forehead as he suggested,” Perhaps it’s best for us to

step back; this matter no longer concerns us.”

It felt like a clash of titans; individuals of their caliber had no reason to involve themselves in such

affairs.

A spirited young staff member from the technical department voiced his surprise, “Mr. McKenna, I had

no idea Mr. Barrett was a computer whiz. Between him and you, who do you think is more impressive?”

Paul sighed wistfully. “Ah, in my younger days, I was just as brash and full of energy as you are now. It

took a humbling experience for me to come to work with my tail between my legs and start repaying my

debts.”

Given Paul’s temperament, it appeared unusual for him to conform to the structured routine of

corporate life. Nevertheless, he had no choice but to acknowledge his limitations.

The young man fell silent at once. While he had always admired Paul, Timothy’s surpassing skills

caught him off guard.

In the modern era, it seemed that wealth, influence, and charm alone were not enough; having

formidable skills was also crucial.

This raised the question–was there any room left for ordinary folks like them to thrive?

Paul lit a cigarette. “Enough talk. Pay attention, and you might just learn something. Some things go

beyond mere expertise.”

On the computer screen, only Timothy and the hacker remained, engaged in a tense confrontation.

As moments passed, it seemed the hacker was gaining the upper hand.

Sensing victory, Sage couldn’t help but display a smug expression. “I’ve got this!”

Ginger applauded enthusiastically, her voice sweet as she exclaimed, “Wow, Sage, you’re amazing!”

Standing nearby, Rachel furrowed her brow in concern. “This situation doesn’t look good. You need to

retreat right away.”

“Why should I concede when I’m on the verge of winning?”

“You’ve been deceived, dummy! He’s about to uncover our secret hideout.”

Reacting swiftly, Rachel turned on her computer, her fingers moving deftly across the keyboard.

Soon, alarms blared from Sage’s computer, signaling an intrusion into his

system.

At that moment, Sage realized he had fallen into a trap.

Rachel’s fingers moved swiftly over the keys, but she stayed calm. “Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

He won’t be able to track you down. I’ve already generated a new IP address for you, so he won’t stand

a chance.”

In the heat of the moment, Sage found himself growing increasingly frustrated.

His relentless pursuit of victory had clouded his judgment.

Sage hadn’t expected his opponent to resort to such underhanded methods, such as covertly

attempting to trace his IP address.

Upon uncovering the IP address, Timothy paused abruptly. “Look into this address,” he instructed.

As Timothy halted, the hacker on the opposite side also ceased their actions,

clearly realizing they had walked into a trap.

Timothy fixed his gaze on the screen, his keystrokes deliberate as he typed: Would you consider

working at the Barrett Group?”

After all, it had been years since anyone had dared to confront him in such a

manner.

11

The last time Timothy faced such a challenge was during a sparring session with Paul years ago, and

that encounter eventually led him to recruit another proficient hacker.

Sage couldn’t help but chuckle as he read the message, his demeanor reflecting Timothy’s

unmistakable arrogance.

With just two words, he replied: “I decline.”

Unfazed by Sage’s response, Timothy continued typing: “Why did you try to breach my company’s

system?”

Upon seeing this message, Sage finally realized the identity of the person he was conversing with on

the other side.

past