Sun Enterprises primarily focused on two sectors: clothing and cosmetics. It was perfectly logical for Heather and Ian to manage one area each. Aurora’s current priority was to get both of them on track with their responsibilities.
“President, this document is about a new perfume looking for distributors. If we’re venturing into cosmetics, wouldn’t it make more sense to develop our own brand? Buying someone else’s product would cost a hefty sum in patent fees, right?” Ian asked with a sharp intuition. Though new to the industry, he quickly identified a crucial point.
“You’re absolutely right,” Aurora replied. “To create skincare products, we must develop our own brand. However, there’s a reality we need to face-our company doesn’t yet have a fully developed R&D department. Developing a new product requires countless tests and refinements to perfect it. Right now, we don’t have that capability.
“So, for now, we’ll purchase the rights to products developed by others. We’ll start by distributing those products, build our reputation, and once we’ve established ourselves, we can launch our own products.”
“I see,” Ian nodded thoughtfully.
“This particular perfume,” Aurora continued, “was developed by the renowned master NE. It took him three years to create, and it hasn’t even been officially released yet. Despite that, it has already attracted the attention of multiple companies, all vying to secure exclusive distribution rights. From what I’ve gathered, more than a dozen companies, big and small, are competing for this perfume.”
“President, I’m a bit curious about something,” Ian said.
“Go ahead,” Aurora encouraged.
“I overheard from Mona that our headquarters primarily deal in real estate and finance. So why are we pivoting to cosmetics and clothing in Clothville? Real estate generates profits faster, and it’s a field you’re familiar with. Why the change in direction?”
Aurora smiled. “That probably has to do with my personality. I don’t enjoy living a monotonous life. You’re correct-real estate is something I have experience with. But in the realms of clothing and cosmetics, I’m essentially starting anew, like a beginner. If you ask me why, it’s because I enjoy design.
“When we first started, the risks in finance were high, but the rewards came quickly. I wanted rapid success, so I had to take that route. Now, my priorities have changed. I want to live for myself for once. This company has nothing to do with the Montgomery family-it’s entirely mine.”
Aurora had initially pursued design under the pseudonym “DO.” What began as a casual endeavor surprisingly gained traction. The limited quantity and exclusivity of her designs quickly made them favorites among socialites. Even Julian was unaware of her identity as DO. Aurora was determined to carve out a space for herself in the field she loved.
“Understood, President. When do we leave?” Heather asked, her resolve to follow Aurora unwavering. Though the job posed new challenges, she was willing to learn and adapt.
“The meeting is scheduled for eleven. Take the next thirty minutes to familiarize yourselves with the other party’s background, and then come with me to a location,” Aurora said, glancing at her watch. It was only eight-thirty.
“Understood.” Both Heather and Ian focused intently on memorizing every detail of the documents.
Meanwhile, in the office, Gemma couldn’t sit still. Ever since Ian had been called to Aurora’s office, he hadn’t returned, leaving her feeling restless, as though something were clawing at her heart. Oddly enough, when Ian had pursued her in the past, she had been indifferent, barely sparing him a glance. But now that Ian showed little interest in her, it unsettled her deeply.
“Leonard, where’s Ian? Why hasn’t he come back yet?” Gemma asked, feigning ignorance.
“He went to the President’s office. Must be something important. He’ll probably be back soon,” Leonard replied, trying to ease her concern.
“What could the President want with him? The new company just started-it shouldn’t be too busy yet. Don’t you think Ian and the President are a bit… close?” Gemma probed.
“You know Ian. He’s always been helpful to everyone. Plus, he’s capable. It’s only natural that the President values him,” Leonard said, detecting a hint of jealousy in her tone.
“I just find it odd. I wonder what they’re discussing,” Gemma muttered, her thoughts clearly elsewhere.
“Even if we’re not too busy, the management team has plenty to handle. There’s still a lot to improve in the new company. I wouldn’t be surprised if the President plans to promote Ian,” Leonard said, his tone supportive.
As they spoke, Ian returned. The moment she saw him, Gemma quickly distanced herself from Leonard.
“Leo, I need to step out for a bit. Can you take care of my tasks while I’m gone?” Ian asked.
“During work hours? Where are you going?” Leonard grabbed Ian’s arm, playfully scolding him.
“I’m accompanying the President to sign some documents. Don’t tell anyone, okay? Keep it between us,” Ian whispered.
“Well, look at you, moving up in the world,” Leonard teased, genuinely happy for him. His earlier assumptions about Aurora favoring Ian had been correct.
“See you later,” Ian said, leaving with a wide smile.
As soon as he was gone, Gemma leaned closer to Leonard. “Leo, where is Ian going?” she asked in a softer, sweeter tone.
“It’s a secret. I promised I wouldn’t tell,” Leonard replied.
“Leo, come on! We’ve known each other for years. Tell me-you can trust me,” Gemma said, wrapping her arm around his and shaking it gently like a child pleading for candy.
No man could resist such charm. Leonard felt his resolve weakening as he looked at her. “Fine, but don’t tell anyone,” he said.
“Of course not. Who would I tell? Now spill,” Gemma replied, her face lighting up with a radiant smile.
Leaning closer, Leonard whispered, “Ian is going with the President to sign a contract.”
“Sign a contract?” Gemma’s eyes gleamed with a calculating light. Just as Leonard had said, Aurora clearly valued Ian.
Deep down, Gemma knew a woman like Aurora wouldn’t be interested in Ian. She wasn’t blind-Aurora had Julian, after all. Ian’s admiration for Aurora was undoubtedly one-sided. However, with Aurora planning to elevate Ian’s career, his future prospects were limitless. Gemma was determined to secure this dark horse for herself.
“Leo, we’ve been friends for so long. Can you do me a favor?” Gemma asked, leaning closer to him, her body practically resting against his.
“What do you need?” Leonard asked, unable to resist her charms.
Gemma whispered something into his ear, leaving Leonard stunned. “Gemma, what are you planning?” he asked, his tone uneasy.
“Please, just this once! I really like Ian, but he’s been ignoring me lately,” Gemma said, her voice tinged with feigned sadness.
Though Leonard felt a pang of discomfort-he had feelings for Gemma himself-he couldn’t bear to see her upset. “Fine, I’ll help you,” he relented.
“You’re the best,” Gemma said sweetly.
Meanwhile, Aurora, Ian, and Heather had arrived at their next destination.