An Understated Dominance - Chapter 497

Dahlia frowned as she watched the people around her chatting happily, completely unaware of her presence. She had arrived early for the board meeting, so Hank’s claim that she was late was completely untrue. From the moment she walked in, everyone stayed seated, and no one even bothered to greet her or save her a seat. It was clear they didn’t take her seriously.

“Hank, what’s going on?” she whispered, trying to stay calm. She knew that Hank had been trying to assert his authority since the beginning.

“What do you mean?” Hank replied, lighting a cigar and lounging back in his chair like he owned the place.

“I’m sure you heard from the family patriarch. I’m the new chairman of Nicholson Corp. starting today.” She spoke firmly, her tone warning him.

“And?” He gave her a mocking smile.

“You’re in my seat. You’ve crossed a line.” She knocked her knuckles on the table.

“Your seat? Do you have proof?” he shrugged, acting indifferent. “Everyone knows this has been my seat forever. You walked in and demanded it. What right do you have?”

“Yeah! What right do you have?” chimed in another attendee.

“Mr. Hoffman runs the company! How can a newcomer take that seat from him? What a joke!” more voices joined in.

The atmosphere grew tense as the attendees sided with Hank, unwilling to let Dahlia take control.

“Please get your facts straight. I’m the largest shareholder and the chairman of the company. Here’s my notice of appointment.” With a serious look, she slammed the document on the table. She had come prepared, but the situation was worse than she had expected.

“Are you serious about this notice of appointment? Who are you trying to fool?” Hank sneered. “Even a general on the battlefield might ignore the King’s orders! We’re not in Glenstead, and your tricks won’t work here!”

“Are you defying me?” She slammed her hand on the table, her anger bubbling over.

“No, we’re not defying you, but we don’t accept your appointment,” Hank replied bluntly.

“Exactly! We don’t recognize it!” another voice chimed in.

“You have no connections or relationships with important people, and you lack the skills needed. Why should you be our chairman?” Hank continued.

“Hmph! We, the long-time members of this company, despise those who get in through the back door!”

The crowd voiced their criticisms, trying to get a word in.

“This decision is made by Regulus Nicholson. Like it or not, you have to accept it,” she said coldly. “As for why I should be chairman, let me explain. After reviewing the company’s financial statements, I discovered that despite its shiny exterior, the company is falling apart inside. Corruption is everywhere—using company funds for personal gain, pocketing money through shady deals, and even leaking company secrets have become the norm.”

She added firmly, “Regulus sent me to shake things up. If you’re unhappy with this decision, feel free to hand in your resignation!”

The senior executives slammed their hands on the table in response. “Who are you trying to threaten? We can always walk away!”

“That’s right! I, for one, would love to…”

“We need to understand how the company works if we all resign together!” one of the senior executives said.

“Just remember, what goes around comes around! There will come a time when you’ll be begging us for help!” another replied.

As they complained, the group of senior executives walked toward the exit. They were aware that if they all resigned, the company would stop functioning and could even go bankrupt. That knowledge gave them a sense of confidence.