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Chapter 77 - Bittersweet Ambitions

In the labyrinthine corridors of corporate ambition, a tale of intricate maneuvering and calculated risks unfolds. Having served under the enigmatic Jack for an extended period, she possesses an intimate understanding: failure to consume the contents of the mango-laden box before her would usher her into the embrace of certain consequences. The scales of fate hang precariously, but her tenacity, stoked by years of dedication within the Yu Group, refuses to relinquish the hard-earned stature she currently holds. Clinging to the tethers of her career, she dares not surrender.

Resolute determination etched on her countenance, she seized a mango, relinquishing its skin with a swift, determined motion. The taste of rebellion lingered in the air as she devoured the fruit, a symbol of defiance against the looming decree.

Beside her, An Ran, a specter of concern, intervened, her voice a plea, "Cheng Lu, you mustn't."

Cheng Lu's response was visceral, her resolve palpable as she brushed off the outstretched hand, proclaiming, "You need not concern yourself!"

In the midst of this tumultuous struggle, the entryway bore witness to the arrival of Du Yue, a harbinger of Jack's unfaltering influence. The message conveyed was stark in its simplicity: the box need not be emptied, but the lesson it held must be etched into her being.

Cheng Lu's affirmation held a mixture of regret and compliance, "I remember. I will never repeat my actions."

Yet Du Yue's words held a disconcerting revelation, "However, you must also face the consequences of your actions—rumor-spreading and disruption of order."

An Ran, the valiant defender, interjected with earnest determination, "Du Yue, how can this be solely Cheng Lu's responsibility?"

Du Yue's gaze, unyielding as forged steel, fixated upon Cheng Lu, a twist of her lips hinting at her role in orchestrating the situation. "Cheng secretary's actions merit no reprieve, would you not agree?"

The magnitude of Cheng Lu's predicament crystallized, her heart sinking like an anchor into the depths of realization. The truth that had remained concealed was now laid bare before her—the orchestrator of the mango-juice scheme was none other than herself, and her intentions had inadvertently reached the ears of Jack.

Time elapsed, and Cheng Lu's ordeal escalated, culminating in her evacuation to the hospital accompanied by An Ran. Word of her plight swept through the company like wildfire, unveiling her punishment and suppressing the voices that once spoke freely. Fear and silence reigned, and a shadow of retribution haunted the walls of the office.

Meanwhile, in a separate sphere, Georgia reclined upon a hospital bed, her thoughts occupied by her impending rendezvous with Mahefeng. Her contemplation was abruptly interrupted by a notification from her phone—a message from Xiao Han, illuminating the current state of affairs. The link between Cheng Lu's actions and Ruan's unexplained allergic reactions became shockingly clear.

Perplexity shrouded her, for how could Cheng Lu be responsible for an allergy she harbored? The enigma of Cheng Lu's actions weighed upon her mind, but her immediate concerns veered towards her ongoing medical treatment. With a sigh, she pushed aside the perplexities, directing her focus toward her recovery.

The ward's ambiance gradually faded as she contemplated her predicament. The nurse's revelation of Jack's intervention lingered, urging her to abide by his advice and rest within the hospital confines. However, an appointment with Mahefeng hung in the balance, and with a restless determination, Georgia embraced her autonomy, preparing to embark on her own terms.

The hospital corridor greeted her hasty departure, and the world outside shifted into a blur as she rushed towards her intended destination.

Simultaneously, Jack occupied his executive suite, his scrutiny directed at the phone that had been unceremoniously dismissed. A quirked eyebrow conveyed his intrigue at her audacity.

The sneeze that escaped Georgia did not go unnoticed; the gears of his analytical mind whirred, intrigued by the possibility of a connection. Though the implications eluded him, he resolved to delve deeper into the enigma that was Georgia.

As his thoughts circled around this matter, a knock on the door signaled the arrival of an unexpected visitor—Du Yue, bearing news of Cheng Lu's fate. A cold exchange transpired, with Jack's attention momentarily drawn away from his evolving theories.

The narrative shifted, and Georgia found herself in the presence of Mahefeng, engaged in the culmination of their negotiations. As signatures sealed their agreement, Mahefeng extended a casual invitation, an offer of gratitude encapsulated within an invitation for dinner. Her polite refusal reflected her sense of professionalism, a commitment to her role that transcended personal considerations.

Amidst their conversation, Georgia's phone once again intervened, its vibrancy a stark reminder of the world beyond their negotiation. The caller's identity was none other than Jack—a reminder of the lingering connection between them.

Her hesitance did not escape Mahefeng's observant gaze, and with an insouciant grin, he inquired, "Assistant Georgia, is there something amiss?"

Georgia's response was swift, her gesture one of dismissal as she assured him that it was merely an inconsequential call. However, her introspection belied her casual demeanor; a nagging guilt seeped into her thoughts, a reminder of her deviation from Jack's counsel.

As the threads of their respective paths converged, Georgia navigated her way through the intricacies of her role, her gaze oscillating between the potential of her career and the unexpected web of connections that intertwined her fate with those around her.