Is this destiny?

Jeff didn't show any change in his cold demeanor. That made all celebratory people settle down relatively quickly and sit in their chairs while doing their best to project the high position in the company, as it's expected of them. Even with that, it took few minutes for everyone to settle down and a complete silence to fill up the room.

'My dear fiancée, this is the part you are waiting for…' In his mind, Jeff was talking to JoAnna, hoping that she does not miss his next grand move. He glanced toward Oscar and his gaze fell on a small black pin on his lapel. And he almost smiled thinking that is the camera which is letting JoAnna see him, but he managed to keep himself cool and composed. At least on the outside. He faced the room. "Unfortunately, after the purchase was completed, I found out about numerous cases where Cox Industries was involved in malpractice, bribery, violation of state and federal laws as well as not practicing fair trade." Jeff observed changes in the faces of people present. Anxiety creeped back into their hearts as they listened to the words this man who can change their fate in an instant.

"I will not allow such a company to become part of White corp. Effective immediately, Cox Industries is shut down. Indefinitely." Jeff finished his talk and counted in his mind. 'One… two… '

People shoot up from their seats as commotion filled the room. Everyone was talking at the same time between themselves and directed at Jeff. The room was buzzing with noise. Jeff straightened his back and observed people who were vigorously protesting what they just heard. But there was nothing they can do. He is the majority owner. He can do whatever he wants. Some thought that it's a joke. But Jeff was not smiling. Neither was Oscar.

Jeff's gaze landed on Timothy Cox who looked like he was stapled to his chair, unable to stand up or move at all. He was pale, drenched in sweat and stared toward Jeff with unfocused eyes.

…

Back at the White family villa in the media room, JoAnna was stuffing her face with popcorn and hopping excitedly on the chair for few minutes, then she would be still like a statue while staring at Jeff on the screen before reaching for the popcorn again. She enjoyed the show. And that Almighty man on the screen was hers! And she saw him throwing glances her way! It was for her. She knows that it was for her, because he is hers…

Aiden left after ten minutes. He didn't want to watch Jeff, and JoAnna was too noisy. His plan was to go back to bed and catch up on some sleep.

Sarah left shortly after Aiden. She found JoAnna funny, and she was happy for her… but it was not something she is interested in watching. That movie was for JoAnna only, because her man was the star. And Sarah knows that Aiden went to bed… so maybe she will not let him sleep. Sarah grinned as she left the media room in hurried steps.

JoAnna didn't realize that she was left alone in the media room. She didn't care.

…

Jeff frowned for a moment while checking time on his wristwatch.

Eventually commotion died out, and one man stood straight facing Jeff. Maybe as a representative.

His face was red, and he was sweating so much that he had wet patches on his jacket. When he spoke, he stuttered. He was extremely anxious. "What… what will happen to us?"

Jeff looked at the man calmly for few seconds, scrutinizing him. "You are?"

"Charlie Payne, Director of Production." Man was conflicted if he should look Jeff in the eyes or not.

"Director…" Jeff paused for a second. "Your position is terminated. Based on the company policy stated in the standard employment contract you signed, when your position is terminated due to company closure, you are not entitled to any severance package." Jeff's expression was cold, and it matched his voice.

The man paled and slumped back into his chair. Another round of commotion started.

Jeff exhaled and slightly lifted his right arm, palm facing toward the room. He looked a bit irritated and that was the first sign of emotion he showed since the meeting started. Within few seconds, everyone was silent, waiting for him to speak. He gave a small nod of approval when last person stopped talking. "To all directors and upper management, your positions are terminated." Jeff gestured toward the door "When you exit, in next two conference rooms on the right, there are people from legal department who will answer any questions you might have. You get until end of day to collect your personal belongings." He nodded again as a sign that he is done talking. After few seconds people started walking out slowly. They were confused and shocked. What happened? They were not sure if they heard Jeff right. They just got fired? And there will be no severance package? How is that possible?!! Many decided to go and talk to legal representatives in order to get a better understanding of their situation.

People who walked out were faced with a hallway lined up with bodyguards. Many bodyguards. They could not count them, but they were tightly lined up next to each other on both sides of the hallway, leaving gaps only where doors are. The scene looked very intimidating.

~Seattle~

Sophia and Felix are watching the live feed from their apartment. Felix is cutting and peeling apples in a plate.

"All those people lost their jobs…" Felix placed bite-sized piece of apple in Sophia's mouth. "…just like that." He looked troubled for a second before his gaze shifted back to the apple pieces.

Sophia chewed the juicy apple and glanced at Felix who was meticulously picking her next bite. "It's not 'just like that'. Sarah and Aiden did the research. All these people we just saw were either directly involved in the malpractice, or they knew about it and chose to stay silent. No one was clean." She focused her attention back to the screen.

"I see…" Felix placed another apple piece in her mouth. "That is good then. Are you also this… intimidating?"

"Sometimes." Sophia was focused on the screen. Jeff is someone she admires workwise, and she knows that she can learn few things from him. She smiled. "But I never fired a full room of directors." She opened her mouth, waiting for her next piece.

Felix was upset to see that Sophia is staring at Jeff on the screen. And smiling!? He knows that it's business, but he is right next to her!

Felix grabbed her chin with his index finger and thumb, turning her head to face him.

Sophia was not sure what is going on when suddenly Felix's lips covered hers, and instead of the expected apple bite, his tongue entered her mouth. His kiss was hot and desperate and tasted like apples. Or maybe the apple taste was from her. She didn't care while pulling him close and responding to his kiss like she is starving for it. When Felix broke the kiss, Sophia looked at him with surprise.

Felix smirked and lifted his chin proudly, seeing that Sophia's breathing is erratic, and she is not looking at that wretched screen anymore.

After some time, Sophia stabilized her breath and thoughts. "I was not expecting to be kissed."

Felix placed an apple piece in her mouth and dazed her with his charming smile. "When I am next to you, ma chéri, always expect to be kissed."

Sophia smiled and blushed. Her head was slowly turning toward the screen, but her eyes were glued to Felix.

He liked that.. He liked that a lot.

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