Chapter 18 Each Harboring Evil Intentions
Mason observed Wesley while sipping his water, somewhat satisfied with the submissive expression on the young man's face.
If not for Delta's affection, Mason would never have considered Wesley as a potential son-in-law. The self-made man with no family connections simply wasn't worthy of the Powell family's status.
Mason then glanced at Delta, noting the undisguised love in her eyes. He couldn't dissuade her now—he'd have to evaluate Wesley over time.
Moments later, the door opened and Ambrose entered, dressed in an impeccable black suit, his expression severe. The atmosphere in the room instantly grew tense.
"Mr. Boleyn has arrived," Mason announced, rising to his feet. Wesley quickly followed suit.
Ambrose approached with his commanding presence and addressed him with a cool, "Uncle Mason."
This marked the first time Ambrose had called Mason "uncle," and in front of others no less. Mason was stunned by this unexpected acknowledgment.
After a few seconds, his surprise gave way to elation. "Good!" He responded eagerly.
Since Ambrose had returned to Silverlight City to take control of the Boleyn family, Mason had attempted private meetings, but Ambrose had ignored his overtures.
Just days ago, they'd encountered each other at a reception. When Mason approached him, Ambrose had been neither warm nor cold but had shared his contact information.
Now, being addressed as "uncle" left Mason astonished.
He couldn't fathom why Ambrose's attitude had changed so dramatically, but regardless of the reason, his willingness to acknowledge their family connection was excellent news for the Powell family.
Overjoyed, Mason beckoned to Delta. "Delta, come say hello."
This opportunity couldn't be missed.
Delta rose and approached Ambrose, studying him intently.
She had seen Ambrose when she was younger but retained few memories from those encounters. Having not formally met him since growing up, she was genuinely excited and greeted him sweetly.
"Ambrose."
Ambrose acknowledged her with a slight nod.
In truth, Ambrose's mother and Delta's mother were only second cousins, their relationship not particularly close.
Mason then made the introduction. "Mr. Boleyn, this is Wesley, CEO of the Ross Group."
Only then did Ambrose's narrow eyes shift coldly toward Wesley, who maintained his composure and extended his hand graciously.
"Mr. Boleyn, hello, I'm Wesley."
Ambrose glanced at the offered hand, letting it hang for a few seconds before unhurriedly extending his own for the briefest of handshakes.
"We've met before," he stated, then pulled out a chair and sat down.
Mason and Delta returned to their seats while Wesley picked up the nearby pitcher and poured water for Ambrose.
"We shared a table at a banquet recently," Wesley remarked. "I'm honored that Mr. Boleyn remembers."
Wesley's behavior was impeccable and measured, his words carefully chosen to flatter Ambrose.
"Please, have some water," Wesley said with a polite gesture before tactfully returning to his seat.
Ambrose ignored the water and cut straight to the point. "You contacted me about today's blacklisting of the Ross Group."
Wesley nodded quickly. "Yes, Mr. Boleyn. Scarlett exploited the contract you signed with Mr. Smith—I was completely unaware of this situation. I hope Mr. Boleyn can see the truth of the matter and spare the Ross Group."
Ambrose's eyes narrowed, emanating danger. "Are you telling me how to conduct my affairs?"
"Mr. Boleyn misunderstands. The situation is this: Scarlett shifted responsibility to the company, and I failed to clarify things with you in person. Skilled leaders operate on the principle that when employees make mistakes, the ultimate responsibility lies with the company. I understand your approach with the Ross Group. I'm here today to ask Mr. Boleyn for one more chance."
Wesley's words were skillfully crafted—acknowledging Scarlett's error while complimenting Ambrose and subtly highlighting his own leadership philosophy.
Ambrose rotated the ring on his wrist, his thin lips curving into a smile. "Mr. Ross certainly has a way with words, but why should I give you a chance?"
Wesley felt like he was punching a cotton ball—he couldn't find a proper response. If Ambrose had no intention of giving him a chance, why had he agreed to meet?
The atmosphere grew awkward until Mason intervened to ease the tension. "Mr. Boleyn, while I don't know all the details of this situation, everyone makes mistakes. I hope you can give him another opportunity."
"Indeed, everyone makes mistakes, but when you err, you must own it rather than deflect. Even if Scarlett was responsible, she represents your company, and the primary accountability cannot be evaded."
Hearing this, Wesley quickly responded, "Whatever Mr. Boleyn wants me to do, I'll comply as long as it's within my power."
"The question is: what are you going to do?" Ambrose's demeanor remained imposing.
Wesley considered for a moment before venturing, "I'll terminate Scarlett's employment."
Ambrose regarded him, thin lips pressed together in stern judgment. After a moment, he spoke.
"She's been with the Ross Group since its founding. According to my investigation, she secured many of the company's projects. Are you willing to let her go?"
Wesley, thinking Ambrose doubted his resolve because he hadn't fired Scarlett immediately, hastened to clarify his position.
"She has taken actions harmful to the company. There's no room for sentiment in such matters."
Ambrose's lips curved into an enigmatic smile. "You're decisive. I look forward to seeing this."
Meeting Ambrose's smile, Wesley felt a chill run down his spine but responded, "Rest assured, Mr. Boleyn, I won't let personal feelings interfere."
"That's best. Out of respect for Uncle Mason, I can give you one chance—provided you promptly resolve your relationship with Scarlett."
'Resolve my relationship with Scarlett?'
'What did Ambrose know?'
Wesley studied Ambrose with growing unease. The man's expression remained inscrutable as he rotated the ring on his right hand, his gaze playful yet revealing nothing—identical to his demeanor at Culinary Haven. There was no way to read him.
Perhaps he was overthinking things.
He needed to finalize his divorce from Scarlett immediately. There couldn't be any connection between them.
Ambrose then turned to Mason. "Uncle Mason has good judgment."
When Mason gave him a questioning look, Ambrose explained with a faint smile, "The Ross Group has achieved remarkable scale in just a few years. That requires genuine ability."
Mason beamed at this comment and returned the compliment. "Mr. Boleyn is the truly capable one."
Ambrose made no response.
Delta, sitting nearby, glanced happily at Wesley. If even Ambrose acknowledged Wesley's competence, Mason surely wouldn't oppose their relationship anymore.
With this thought, she stood to pour water for Ambrose.
"Ambrose, have some water."
Ambrose acknowledged her with a nod and that same enigmatic half-smile as he continued rotating his ring, though he didn't touch the water. He then stood, mentioning another engagement that required his departure.
Understanding that Ambrose's mere presence had already been a courtesy, Mason didn't try to detain him. After seeing Ambrose out, he turned to Wesley.
"Since he's given you a chance, you need to satisfy Mr. Boleyn's expectations."
"Don't worry, I'll make sure Mr. Boleyn is satisfied."
Mason nodded. Truthfully, he looked down on someone of Wesley's background, but Ambrose had just validated Wesley's capabilities. With proper support, Wesley could match any heir from a wealthy family—and would be easier to control.
While Mason calculated his advantages, Wesley was making his own plans.
The Powell family's connection to Ambrose was extraordinary. By marrying into the Powell family, what resources would he ever lack? He needed to divorce Scarlett immediately.
Their relationship couldn't be discovered by anyone. The divorce had to happen quickly.
After leaving the private room, Ambrose was approached by Chase, who informed him quietly, "Mr. Boleyn, the house just called. Hayden has a fever."