When His Mask Cracks novel Chapter 7

When Bernice arrived at her office that morning, she was informed that several projects she was working on had been canceled. Even ongoing collaborators discontinued their projects with her.

After looking into the situation, Bernice learned that the rejecting companies were affiliated with the Thenswy Chamber of Commerce.

With so many companies banding together to boycott VitaCare Pharmaceutical Group, Bernice felt uneasy about what would happen next.

The company was left with only a dozen ongoing projects, barely enough to sustain them for three months. Financially, they were staring down the barrel of a crisis. Bernice couldn't understand why things turned sour when she hadn't provoked anyone.

After moments of hesitation, Bernice decided to make the call.

When the call was picked up, Bernice respectfully said, "I'm Bernice Collins from VitaCare Pharmaceutical Group, Mr. Jenkins. I hope I'm not interrupting."

Rudd, anticipating Bernice's phone call, cut straight to the chase. "I know what's on your mind, Ms. Collins. However, your company's issues are beyond my control. Please refrain from calling me in the future."

Upon hearing that, Bernice paused briefly before saying, "Surely you must know something, Mr. Jenkins. Can you tell me why? VitaCare Pharmaceutical Group hasn't wronged anyone, and we've been actively contributing to Thenswy's development for years. Can you do me a favor and shed some light on this matter?"

As a member of the Chamber of Commerce herself, Bernice believed Rudd wouldn't completely disregard her. However, his response was cold and laced with hostility. "You're giving yourself too much credit, Ms. Collins! You hold no sway over me.

"Just so you're aware, there's been a vote initiated within the Chamber of Commerce. Unless something unforeseen happens, VitaCare Pharmaceutical Group will likely be kicked out."

"Why?" Bernice asked, her breathing caught in her throat, overwhelmed by the unexpected events.

Bernice pondered the situation, attempting to discern whom she might have offended, but her efforts proved fruitless.

Rudd, clearly wanting to end the call, offered a cryptic clue. "Think about it carefully, Ms. Collins. Hasn't your company been sailing smoothly for the past three years? I'm afraid you alone don't carry that much influence!"

"Just so you know, VitaCare Pharmaceutical Group got to where it is today because someone paved the way for you behind the scenes. But now, your supporter isn't backing you anymore."

With that, the call abruptly ended.

Bernice was bewildered; Rudd's words echoed in her mind.

Upon reflection, Bernice realized Rudd was correct. The smooth trajectory of VitaCare Pharmaceutical Group's rise had raised suspicions, yet she had never questioned it.

Who had been backing her up? Throughout her career, she prided herself on her self-reliance. Surely it wasn't Andrew!

In the past three years, all Andrew did was mundane household chores. He was so pathetic, and the thought of him pulling strings was laughable.

A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.

Bernard walked in. "I've heard about your predicament, Bernice. Stay calm. I'll figure something out."

Bernard had invested in Bernice, so he closely watched her. Furthermore, he had also been lusting over Bernice.

"I have some powerful clients. Tomorrow night, the Thompson family is hosting a charity auction. Use it as a networking opportunity to stabilize the company."

Bernard's offer felt like a lifeline. Relief washed over Bernice. Compared to Andrew's uselessness, Bernard seemed like a savior.

"Thank you, Mr. Clarke," Bernice said sincerely. "Once this is all sorted out, I'll ensure you're properly thanked."

Verify captcha to read the contentVerify