Chapter 104

Howard's POV

I walked briskly toward the meeting room,my thoughts lingering on the conversation I'd just had with Annie. My plan was progressing smoothly-having Robert pretend to be me while chatting with Sarah was a clever arrangement that would ensure her complete collapse when the truth was revealed, leaving her without any support. The "gift" for Philip was also prepared, waiting only for the right moment to be unveiled.

As I pushed open the door, I paused momentarily. The Robert Johnson standing by the window was almost unrecognizable from the drunk,desperate man I'd encountered in that photography studio.He'd cut his hair, shaved his stubble, and wore a suit that, while not custom-tailored.was clean and proper. The most noticeable change was in his eyes-no longer cloudy and empty, but rekindled with a spark of life and hope.

When our gazes met, an unspoken awkwardness filled the air.He unconsciously touched his cheek, where I had landed my fist. I noticed his fingers trembling slightly, suggesting the memory still made him uneasy.

"Mr. Thompson," he said, immediately straightening his posture when he saw me enter. His tone carried a careful respect, though his eyes instinctively avoided direct contact.

I acknowledged him with an expressionless nod, deliberately ignoring our unpleasant history. I had no regrets about intervening for Annie's sake,but at present. I needed Robert's cooperation.

"Have a seat," I said, gracefully settling in the chair opposite him."Before I transfer the investment funds to you, would you mind if I reviewed your business proposal?"

The tension between us remained palpable. He attempted to maintain professionalism, but quickly averted his gaze whenever our eyes met. For a man who had once been knocked to the ground by me, now engaging in business negotiations with me, this discomfort was practically inevitable.

I knew Robert understood this was a rare opportunity. My time was exceedingly valuable in business circles. Many who requested my help reviewing their proposals were politely declined, yet here I was, offering assistance voluntarily.

Robert quickly retrieved documents from his briefcase and handed them to me. "Not at all. This is my latest business pan."

I accepted the papers, examining several pages with focused attention before looking up. "Do you have a pen?"

"Yes!" He reached into his suit pocket almost eagerly, producing a pen.

I returned the documents to him and began methodically identifying issues and suggesting improvements. As I watched Robert diligently taking notes, I privately assessed his reactions and comprehension.He appeared to possess genuine business acumen, merely lacking proper guidance.

"Your market analysis is overly optimistic," I explained patiently. "You should consider more potential risk factors."

After completing my review. Robert expressed his gratitude: "Thank you.Mr. Thompson. Your advice is invaluable."

"You're welcome," I replied with a composed expression. "Leave your account details with me, and I'll have my secretary transfer the funds to you."

"When my company succeeds. I won't forget your support," Robert said.

his voice barely containing his excitement.

"Don't mention it," I nodded casually.

Just as the meeting appeared to be concluding, I noticed Robert hesitating,glancing at me several times before looking down again.

"If you have something to say, you can tell me directly. There's no need to be evasive," I stated frankly.

Robert unconsciously touched his cheek where I had struck him, his expression somewhat embarrassed. "I... we've met before."

I maintained professional composure, though my eyes reflected acknowledgment. "At the photography studio."

A subtle tension permeated the air. We both recalled the moment I had burst through the door and violently knocked him to the ground.

"About that day... I owe Annie an apology, and you an explanation,"Robert said quietly, guilt evident in his voice. "I understand why you had every right to be angry with me then."

I merely tapped the armrest lightly, waiting for him to continue. I had no regrets about protecting Annie.

"When Philip brought Annie to my place... I never touched her," Robert looked directly into my eyes, sincerity visible in his gaze. "Even in her condition, she somehow managed to awaken my conscience. If not for her strength and wisdom that day, I'd probably still be lost, with no direction in life."

I noticed Robert touching the still-bruised area on his chin. but I showed no remorse. Protecting Annie had been instinctive for me-even knowing

the truth now. I wouldn't apologize for my actions.

"She's a remarkable woman," Robert added softly. "I truly hope she finds happiness."

My expression softened slightly. "I'm glad to hear the truth."

"It's the least I could do." Robert handed me a note with his bank account number.

Taking the note, my tone became somewhat gentler. "If you have other questions in the future, you can come to me. If I have time, I'll certainly help you. Robert, I now want your company to succeed quickly more than anyone else."

"Is it because I just mentioned Annie?" Robert asked.pleasantly surprised.

I didn't answer directly. "Primarily because I see potentiaI in your project."

Watching Robert leave with renewed confidence, a satisfied smile formed on my lips. His candor had once again confirmed Annie's innocence,strengthening my resolve to exact revenge on those who had hurt her.

Shortly after Robert's departure, my secretary knocked and entered. "Mr.Thompson."

"Yes," I crossed my legs, signaling her to continue.

"Regarding Annie," Susan Moore reported, "after she handled Sarah's online provocation the other day, sales of the company's peripheral products showed remarkable growth."

She reviewed data on her tablet, surprise evident in her eyes. "Sales are three times higher than projected.

Multiple online platforms are discussing her confrontation with Sarah,generating substantial traffic and attention."

"That's good news." I nodded slightly. Annie's wit and courage had impressed me once again.

"Yes," Susan Moore added, "though I'm concerned this might just be a temporary effect, and the interest could fade quickly."

I tapped the desk, contemplation in my eyes. "Do you see that as a problem?"

Susan Moore paused momentarily. "Indeed, I forgot we were already planning to increase Annie's exposure and promotion."

"How are the negotiations with the publishing house progressing?" I shifted directly to the next topic.

"Smoothly," Susan Moore reported concisely. "We're emphasizing expanding influence as a priority,accepting lower per-book profits for long-term growth."

"Exactly right." I nodded approvingly. "We're building a lasting brand, not chasing short-term gains."

"Additionally," Susan Moore continued, "we've prepared sufficient production capacity to ensure we won't face supply shortages."

"Excellent." I tapped the desk with satisfaction. "You've performed exceptionally during this period. I've decided to allocate a portion of the company's earnings from Annie's works as your additional bonus."

Susan Moore's eyes immediately brightened. "Really?"

"Of course." I said calmly. "You know I never make empty promises."

"Thank you for your trust! I won't disappoint you!" Susan Moore could barely contain her excitement.

"But remember, no matter how busy work gets. you must take care of your health." I gestured slightly,indicating she could leave.

After Susan Moore departed, I walked to the floor-to-ceiling window.Annie's career was flourishing,giving me genuine satisfaction.

I reflected on Annie from last night, her soft lips, those slender legs wrapped around my waist... The mere thought was enough to make my body warm. If not for my work responsibilities, I'd call her to my office right now, have her sit on my desk while I slowly unbuttoned her blouse,and then...

I took a deep breath, forcing myself back to reality. In the reflection of the window, I noticed the desire flickering in my own eyes, which made me smile slightly. Annie affected me more profoundly than any woman ever had.

I just hope things continue to go this smoothly.