Fiona's sharp, fox-like eyes scanned the room, taking in everyone present.
Suddenly, she slammed her hand down on the table. "What's going on here? You old fools, what are you waiting for if you're not going to vote?" she snapped, her voice dripping with disdain.
No one paid her any mind, leaving her feeling like the punchline of a cruel joke.
She let out a mocking laugh. "You stubborn old coots really are inflexible! It's like you need to smash your heads against a wall before you wake up!"
With that, Fiona fixed her gaze on the elder she had threatened earlier, raising her voice intentionally. "Aren't you going to set an example for them? Remember, your grandchildren are waiting for you to take them home!"
The man remained completely motionless, as if oblivious to her presence.
Seething with anger, Fiona slammed her palms on the table and stood up. "Listen, you old fool! Don't think you can turn down my offer without facing consequences. I'm not here to make empty threats. Once my men get involved, you'll regret your decision!"
Just as her words lingered in the air, a deep, resonant voice echoed from the doorway of the conference room.
"Then let them take action."
Chandler strode confidently into the room.
Momentarily surprised, Fiona scowled at him. "What on earth are you doing here? This meeting is strictly for members and prospective members of the Jewelers' Association. Even if you are Chandler Newton, that doesn't give you an exception."
"And that's exactly why I'm here," Chandler replied, his expression stoic. "Did you honestly think they were waiting for anyone else? The truth is, I informed them ahead of time that my presence doesn't change a thing—whether I'm here or not, the outcome will remain the same."
"What do you mean by that?" Fiona asked, a wave of dread washing over her.
"On what grounds? I refuse to accept this! Even as president, you have no right to abuse your power like this—this is nothing but personal revenge!" Fiona clenched her fists, grinding her teeth in anger.
Chandler held her gaze for a moment before pulling out a chair and sitting down. "Well, Ms. Cunningham, let's see just how fair our association really is. Those in favor of my proposal, please raise your hands."
In moments, every member in the conference room except for Fiona raised their right hands, a striking contrast to the previous vote in her favor.
"Very good," Chandler said, nodding with satisfaction. He then turned to Fiona and asked, "Now, do you have anything else to say?"
Fiona glared at the assembled members, finally fixing her gaze on the man she had threatened. "How dare you conspire with Chandler against me? Just wait—you'll regret this!"
With that, she stormed out of the conference room, her heels clicking angrily against the floor.
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