Chapter 36

Knoxville POV

Henry walked into the office, removing his fake moustache, revealing his familiar smile. I couldn't help but feel a rush of anticipation.

"How was it?" I asked immediately, my curiosity getting the better of me. "Was it a success?"

Henry chuckled, confidence radiating from his demeanor. "Yes, 100 percent success. I managed to bring Matthew to our side. And we will be putting 25 percent into this project."

I took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and relief. "And what about Maxwell? How much did he invest?" I asked, my eyes narrowing slightly. "You know he can't beat us."

Henry smirked, his eyes glinting with amusement. "He only has 15 percent shares, so you don't have to worry," he said, his voice dripping with satisfaction.

As he spoke, his gaze met mine, and my heart skipped a beat. There was something about his triumphant smile that made my pulse quicken.

"Excellent work, Henry," I said, trying to sound composed. "You've outdone yourself this time."

Henry grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "All in a day's work," he replied, his voice low and smooth.

"I guess I owe this to you," I said with a warm smile, extending an invitation. "So, I'll treat you to dinner. You can order anything you like."

Henry's expression remained deadpan, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "No, I don't want food. I want you to increase my salary. Aren't you supposed to do that even if I don't ask?"

I chuckled, shaking my head. "You're unbelievable, Henry. Even my father's manager isn't receiving the amount you get in a month. It's either dinner or nothing."

Henry sneered, his lips curling upward. "You're very petty. Is it a crime to increase my salary? You know how much heat I endured wearing that ridiculous moustache."

I laughed, holding up my hands in mock defense. "Alright, alright. I get it. You want a raise. But let's be real, Henry, you're already one of the highest-paid employees here."

Henry leaned forward, his eyes locked intensely on mine. "I'm not asking for a handout. I'm asking for fair compensation for my exceptional work. And that moustache was no joke. I deserve hazard pay."

I grinned, impressed by Henry's audacity. "Leave my office, or they'll have to carry you out of here?" I threatened, my voice laced with amusement.

Henry didn't flinch, his eyes sparkling with defiance. "Did you think I'd be moved by your threat? No, I won't be intimidated," he said, stepping backwards towards the door.

I chuckled, a sly smile spreading across my face. "Why don't you wait up? Let me show you how to increase your salary," I suggested, my tone dripping with sarcasm.

Henry's eyes widened, his face a picture of mock terror. "You're too scary for me to wait. I literally don't have a death wish," he said, hastily retreating from my office.

As the door closed behind him, a smile played on my lips. The fact that the beginning of my plan was a success brought me immense satisfaction.

I leaned back in my chair, steepling my fingers together. Henry's boldness was refreshing, and I found myself looking forward to our next encounter.

With a contented sigh, I focused on the task at hand – processing Henry's well-deserved salary increase. My mind whirled with the implications of our exchange, and the potential for future collaborations.

The sound of my phone buzzing broke the silence, snapping me back to reality. I answered, my voice crisp and professional.

"Who's this?" I demanded, my tone firm and authoritative.

"Are you really going to ask me that?" The person chuckled, his voice clear and unmistakable.

"Maxwell," I spat out, my annoyance evident.

"Very quick at catching on," Maxwell praised. "You didn't save my number, right?"

I smirked, rolling my eyes. "Should I just say you're sick to think I'd actually save your number?" I retorted.

Maxwell laughed. "I didn't save yours either, so I guess it's mutual."

My irritation grew. "I guess you're so jobless that you've nothing better to do than call me."

Maxwell's tone turned condescending. "Calm down, half-brother. Don't be in such a rush."

My anger flared at the mention of our familial tie. How dare he bring that up?

"Watch your words, Maxwell," I warned, my voice low and menacing.

"Oh, I'm shaking in my boots," Maxwell mocked. "We need to talk, half-brother. Business matters."

I gritted my teeth. What could Maxwell possibly want now?

"What is it?" I bit out.

"You'll find out soon enough," Maxwell teased. "Meet me at the usual place tomorrow."

I hesitated, unsure if I should indulge him.

"Don't bother trying to avoid me," Maxwell added. "You know I always get what I want. And I guess you have to be there because I might involve Electra"

With that, the line went dead.

I slammed my phone onto the desk, frustration coursing through my veins. What game was Maxwell playing now?

"Wow! So much audacity, like how dare he?" I muttered to myself, incredulous at Maxwell's nerve.

Henry burst into the room, concern etched on his face. "Are you okay?" he asked, rushing to my side.

I glared at him, still seething from the phone call. "I told you to go to your office. What are you doing here?"

Henry hesitated, his eyes darting to the phone. "I actually came back to report something to you, and I heard your fist hit the table," he replied, his brow furrowed with worry.

I took a deep breath, attempting to calm down. "Ahh," I let out, ruffling my hair in frustration.

Henry's gaze lingered on me until I composed myself.

"What is it?" I asked finally, waving him to proceed.

Henry cleared his throat. "It's about the Johnson account the one who has been working with us for over a month. They're interested in increasing their investment with us, but they need some assurances."

I nodded, focusing on the task at hand. "Go on."

Henry's expression turned thoughtful. "I think we can offer them a customized package, addressing their specific concerns."

As Henry outlined his plan, I listened intently, my anger at Maxwell slowly receding.

"Good work, Henry," I said, impressed. "Go ahead."

Henry smiled, relief flickering across his face. "Will do."

"But are you sure you're okay?" Henry asked.

"You can go back to your office, I am fine" I replied. .