However, Bruno’s face changed upon hearing this. “What’s the big deal about a factory manager? Does he really deserve a call from Grandma?”
“You can make the call too, just remember to use the speakerphone,” Leo added.
Teresa turned to Bruno.
Bruno became flustered and forced a smile. “Grandma, I don’t have Mr. Simpson’s number.”
“Alvin’s secretary’s number then. You must have that,” Leo chimed in.
Bruno exploded, “Leo, what do you mean? Am I falsely accusing you!?”
“That’s hard to say. I just want you to prove that you’re not framing me.”
“Alright, let’s leave this matter here for now. We gathered today to address Bruno’s failed negotiation. Let’s hear everyone’s opinions on what to do next.”
Teresa understood her grandson well and didn’t want to drag this issue out. She changed the topic.
“Grandma, since it’s a business negotiation, it can’t always go smoothly. While Bruno failed, there might still be a chance to turn things around. I think we should send someone else to negotiate with Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company.”
“Mother, Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company is now under Azure Financial, with Azure Cloud Group backing it. We can’t afford to miss this opportunity for the Henley family. I also agree we should continue negotiations.”
Teresa nodded and surveyed the table before asking, “So, for the second round of negotiations, who do you think is the most suitable candidate?”
“Grandma, I believe Fanny is the best choice,” Bruno recommended.
The rest of the Henley family members nodded. Fanny had just graduated from college, majoring in marketing. Sending her to negotiate with Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company’s Alvin seemed suitable and a chance for her to gain experience.
Leo raised his hand.
“Leo, do you have something to say?” Teresa gestured for him to speak.
“Grandma, I believe that professional matters should be handled by professionals. Since both Bruno and Sophia are involved in cosmetics sales, and Bruno has failed, Sophia should take over,” Leo’s words carried conviction.
“I think Leo has a point.”
“What point? Our Henley family’s matters shouldn’t be meddled in by a freeloading waste.”
“Exactly, he’s already privileged to be here at the meeting. Now he wants to offer ideas? He’s truly clueless.”
As usual, the Henley family members directed their only attacks toward Leo, filled with sarcasm.
Having spoken, Leo fell silent, and Teresa nodded thoughtfully.
Beside Teresa, Bruno confirmed his suspicions about Leo’s behavior at Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company. Leo had indeed paved the way for Sophia. He must have spoken ill of Bruno in front of Alvin yesterday. That explained Alvin’s poor attitude.
Sophia cast a deep glance at Leo. She didn’t understand why he had put her on the spot. With Bruno’s negotiations falling apart, could she really succeed?
“I think Leo has a point as well.” Teresa tapped the table, appearing contemplative.
Bruno was getting anxious, “Grandma, please don’t listen to Leo’s random suggestions. If Sophia messes up the negotiation, Alvin probably won’t cooperate with our Henley family anymore. Then we’ll miss out on the opportunity to become the exclusive distributor. Our plan to leverage Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company and Azure Cloud Group will fail.”
“Bruno, what if Sophia actually succeeds in the negotiation?” Teresa’s face revealed a mysterious expression.
“Well,” Bruno hesitated.
If Sophia really succeeded, Sophia Cosmetics would become the exclusive distributor for Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company. In comparison, the position of Breeze Cosmetics, which he managed, would inevitably decline. This was something Bruno didn’t want to see.
“Grandma, I think it would be more reliable if Fanny went to negotiate.” Bruno only hoped that the old lady would favor him and consider his advice.
Teresa sat up straight, raising her voice, “I’ve made up my mind. We’ll go to Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company again for negotiations on the exclusive distribution rights. Sophia, I don’t know if you’re willing to go.”
All eyes turned to Sophia.
“Grandma, I…”
Sophia hesitated. If this negotiation succeeded, it would be beneficial for both Sophia Cosmetics and the Henley family. However, if it failed, Bruno might use it against her again.
Sophia was well aware that Fanny had long been interested in taking over her company. Fanny and Bruno were like two peas in a pod.
Leo discreetly held Sophia’s hand under the table, whispering, “Sophia, agree to it.”
Sophia glanced sideways at Leo. Her hesitant heart unexpectedly grew resolute. She replied, “Grandma, I’m willing to negotiate with Herbal Magic Cosmetics Company.”
“Grandma, this is a significant matter. What if Sophia fails in the negotiation?” Bruno’s greatest fear had come true.
Teresa gave him a reproachful look, “What are you trying to say?”
“Grandma, given the importance of this matter, I think we should draft an agreement.” Bruno’s eyes flickered as he came up with an idea.
“What do you mean?” Teresa was puzzled by her grandson’s sudden shift in tactics.
“Sophia can negotiate with Herb Magic Cosmetics Company. If she succeeds, I’m willing to step down from my position as General Manager of Breeze Cosmetics. Similarly, if she fails, she’ll resign from her position as General Manager of Sophia Cosmetics.”
As these words left his lips, the expressions on everyone’s faces turned intrigued.
But this wasn’t an agreement-it was clearly a gamble!
Sophia abruptly stood up. “Bruno, why should I gamble with you?”
Bruno sneered, “If you don’t dare gamble, it means you lack confidence in your success. Instead of wasting this opportunity, it’s better to let someone confident and capable take the reins.”
“Grandma…” Sophia looked to Teresa.
“Bruno’s idea isn’t bad. Sophia, it’s your choice. If you’re not willing, Grandma won’t force you.” The old lady’s favoritism was becoming excessive.
Sophia wouldn’t impulsively risk her position as General Manager of Sophia Cosmetics for such a gamble. She was about to refuse when Leo squeezed her hand discreetly.
“Sophia, agree. Trust me, you’ll succeed,” Leo whispered.
Sophia glanced at Leo’s confident and determined eyes. Uncertain, she asked, “Give me a convincing reason.”
“Just agree for now. I’ll explain once we’re back,” Leo suggested.
Normally, Sophia wouldn’t have listened to Leo. However, his recent changes had struck a chord with her. Rationally and emotionally, she felt there was one thing she could be certain of.
Leo could be trusted.