The shareholders knew a company exec's divorce could affect stock prices, but what really stunned them was that someone wanted to divorce Stuart.
Stuart was known for being cold and rarely smiled. He wasn't exactly the caring type. Lately, though, rumors were flying that he was getting close to a new secretary, showering her with luxury gifts.
Cheating was wrong, sure, but for someone like Stuart, having a few side flings was pretty normal. None of the shareholders could claim to be saints either. They all had wives at home and mistresses on the side. In business marriages, it was all about appearances and mutual benefits, not love. Divorce was never on the table.
And yet, Josephine was the one asking for it. Plenty of families would jump at the chance to marry into the Haustia family. Besides his wealth, Stuart's looks alone were enough to attract women. So, Josephine wanting a divorce and announcing it in front of everyone? That was a major blow to Stuart's pride.
People in high positions value their dignity, and Josephine was stomping all over Stuart's. No man could stand that. Stuart's face was pale with rage. If he looked bad before, now he was like a winter storm.
"Josephine," he said coldly, "I'll give you one last chance. Get out of here right now!"
The shareholders were shocked again. They knew Stuart's temper well. To outsiders, he might seem harsh now, but normally, he wouldn't tolerate even minor issues, let alone a public divorce.
Josephine was bold to bring this up at a shareholders' meeting. Given Stuart's history, he would have destroyed her. But he just told her to leave.
Usually, when they messed up, Stuart would mock them, glare, and dish out punishments. Now, just a simple "get out"? Something was off.
Many hoped Josephine would leave quickly, fearing Stuart might redirect his anger at them.
But Josephine looked at him and said slowly, "You and everyone here know why I'm divorcing..."
Before she could finish, an older shareholder interrupted, "Josephine, men have to socialize sometimes; don't take it so seriously."
Another chimed in, "Right, it's not worth a divorce. Virgil, take Mrs. Haustia to the lounge for a bit."
Despite Stuart's grim face, these long-time associates could tell he didn't want a divorce.
The shareholders tried to mediate, hoping to avoid Stuart's wrath.
Stuart, still fuming, managed to say, "Go wait for me next door."
But Josephine shook her head. "I want a divorce today. You have been unfaithful..."
One shareholder interjected, "Josephine, it's just socializing. Men do that while making money."
"No," Josephine insisted, "This is infidelity. Don't normalize cheating."
The older shareholder chimed in again, "Josephine, don't be stubborn. The Kalmien family has many projects with us. Divorcing over this is overreacting. Go back!"
Stuart's eyes were cold as he stared at Josephine.
She shook her head again. "I can't handle the company's affairs. After the divorce, whatever happens, happens. I want to start my own life."
William stepped up beside her. "Josephine is amazing. Stuart doesn't appreciate her, but many others do."
The shareholders turned their attention to William. Some recognized him as a rising star in the Hustalia market. Was he also after Josephine?
Stuart's glare could kill. His wife was publicly asking for a divorce and brought another man to provoke him. No man, especially not someone of Stuart's status, could tolerate such humiliation.
The shareholders were stunned by Josephine's determination. They initially thought she was just throwing a tantrum, but with William stepping in, the situation escalated.
No man could tolerate his wife cheating, even if he cheated first. Everyone thought Josephine was making a huge mistake. Divorcing Stuart and leaving the protection of the Haustia family seemed foolish.
No one spoke for her anymore. If Stuart didn't agree to the divorce, he'd lose all dignity in front of the shareholders. This was about a man's pride. Josephine was trampling on Stuart's dignity.
If Stuart didn't divorce, he'd become a laughingstock. His eyes were murderous as he looked at William, but he stayed silent for a long time.
The shareholders were shocked. Did Stuart still not want a divorce? Even now, was he reluctant to let Josephine go?
Josephine's actions were resolute. If Stuart forgave this and kept the marriage, he'd have no self-respect left.
The room was silent for what felt like forever. Finally, Stuart spoke. "You want a divorce? Fine. Just don't regret it later."