Then, I turned to Gideon, my expression unreadable.
"If I’m not mistaken, you and these clowns… you’re all in the same group, aren’t you?"
The laughter faltered—just for a moment.
As a sharp businessman, keen insight is second nature.
From the moment this meeting started, I had noticed how these people clung to Gideon, laughing at his every word, nodding along like obedient lapdogs. They had also received the largest red envelopes at the start of the year—so full they were nearly bursting.
The company had a clear policy: the annual start-up red envelopes were to be equal for everyone, regardless of rank or position. Yet, these people were different. It was obvious Gideon had manipulated things from behind the scenes.
And Everett, foolish as ever, had actually entrusted him with such an important position.
Even I, the true power behind this company, could hardly stand watching this farce unfold.
"You little bastard, what nonsense are you spewing? We have nothing to do with Gideon!"
"That's right! We just can't stand watching you leech off the company’s resources, so we spoke up!"
"What right do you, a kept man, have to question us?"
I clenched my fists, forcing myself to stay calm. My sharp glare shut them up for a moment. Then, I smirked.
"I admit I’m indeed younger and more handsome than all of you," I said casually.
Then, my expression turned ice-cold. My voice, sharper than a knife, cut through the air.
"But I don’t appreciate being called a gigolo."
I took a step forward, locking eyes with them.
"I suggest you never use that term again."
"Because if I get angry, the consequences will be severe."
My sudden shift in presence made them stiffen. For a moment, they were speechless, their cowardice laid bare.
Gideon, seeing his lackeys falter, stepped forward with an ugly scowl.
"You little bastard, do you think I’ll let you get away with this?"
"You’re just a worthless bum who got fired. And yet, you dare to act all high and mighty in front of me?"
"Let me make it clear—today, I’m not just kicking you out of this company, I’m going to make you strip down and leave in shame!"
I almost laughed at how ridiculous he sounded.
New York’s business world was certainly more entertaining than London’s. At least here, I got to witness a clown show in broad daylight.
"Gideon, do your words represent the company?" I asked, my voice eerily calm.
Gideon waved dismissively. "Of course!"