Chereads / Married to a big shot's secretary / Chapter 4 - A second encounter- part 1

Chapter 4 - A second encounter- part 1

At RX hotel in the boardroom, Mae, the CEO of RX hotels, the General Manager of RX hotels and five other board members were seated, with Mae standing to deliver her presentation.

"After conversing with our executive director of strategy, I have observed a surge in negative feedback from our clientele regarding our family-oriented activities and entertainment offerings.

 In order to enhance our profitability, it is imperative that we prioritize the satisfaction of our customers. As a result, I am contemplating extending an invitation to Kelly Allen for an exclusive stay at our hotel", Mae articulated confidently.

"And how do you anticipate this will bolster our profitability?" the GM inquired.

Thank you for posing that question, dear brother. Kelly is renowned for her recommendations on hotels, event venues, arcades, restaurants, parks, vacations, and various other leisure establishments. Her blog has consistently ranked as the top for five consecutive years. By enlisting her to feature our hotel, we not only acquire valuable exposure but also gain access to her insightful perspectives", Mae explained.

"Will she be covering the expenses for her stay at the hotel?" the ED probed.

"Absolutely not", Mae affirmed with a broad smile.

"In that case, how do you propose we generate revenue? Executing your proposal may lead to financial losses", the ED expressed concern.

"Consider it a sacrifice to achieve a larger victory", Mae remarked calmly.

"You're advocating for a risky venture?" the chairman raised an eyebrow.

"Fear not, there is no risk involved. I am prepared to forego my salary for a month to fund all of Kelly's expenses", Mae assured confidently.

"Don't be silly, Mae", the chairman cautioned.

"I am resolute in my decision", Mae affirmed with conviction.

"She is indeed resolute", the GM remarked, looking apprehensive.

Subsequently, the door swung open as Shaun and Ethan entered the room accompanied by a slender young lady.

"Welcome, CEO Shaun. Pleasure to see you Ethan", the GM greeted, extending his hand.

"My apologies for our lateness, CEO Wilson. Thank you for the warm reception, Mike", Ethan acknowledged as they took their seats.

Shaun upon noticing Mae in the room, pondered her presence. "She seems to have transformed since our encounter at the restaurant. It's surprising to see her in a key role at RX hotels ", he pondered, and his gaze fixed on her.

Mae, aware of Shaun's examination, wondered if he recognized her from their previous interaction. Feeling a surge of nerves, she composed herself with a deep breath and a smile.

"Mae, please proceed with your presentation, if you may", the CEO interjected.

"Of course sir", Mae responded with a forced smile.

Ten minutes later, Mae concludes her presentation, and the audience applauds her.

"So, what are your thoughts?" CEO Wilson inquired.

"Mae you never fail to impress us with your innovative and effective business strategies", the chairman remarked with a proud smile.

"Thank you, Chairman Owen," Mae replied, beaming as if she had just won a lottery.

"It's a brilliant strategy", GM Michael added.

"I wholeheartedly agree with everything Mae presented", the ED chimed in.

"Why do they all admire her?" Shaun muttered under his breath, clenching his fists.

"Shaun what are your thoughts on the proposal?" Ethan asked.

"It's impulsive and risky", Shaun blurted out without consideration.

"Excuse me", Mae interjected feeling deeply offended".

"I simply believe it's a foolish idea, and I fail to comprehend why someone like you who's incompetent and unimpressive is entrusted with such a crucial presentation", Shaun remarked scornfully.

"Choose your words carefully, Shaun", GM Michael warned.

"If success in business were based on emotions, everyone on planet earth would be wealthy. However I doubt you comprehend the essence of risk-taking in business, given that delegate the challenging tasks to your subordinates while claiming the glory. Even though you compensate them generously for their efforts, it only emphasizes your lack of business expertise. I suggest you remain silent and allow those with expertise to speak", Mae retorted, arching her eyebrow.

How dare you insult me?" Shaun glowered.

"I hold a bachelor's degree in business administration and accounting, along with a master's degree in both. Unless you have surpassed my qualifications which you clearly have not, I stand by statements and I won't consider apologizing", Mae asserted, giving him a cold stare.

Ethan observed Mae closely, his lips curling upwards in surprise at her response to Shaun's affront.

"I will not tolerate such disrespect from a mere secretary", Shaun snapped.

"That is enough, Shaun. I will not tolerate any further insults from you", CEO Wilson interjected, his eyes ablaze with anger.

"CEO Wilson", Shaun stammered, taken aback by his reaction.

"She is my daughter. Watch your language, or I will not hesitate to remove you from this premises", CEO Wilson warned sternly.

"You…. She is your daughter?" Shaun mumbled, his lips trembling.

"Do not disrespect my sister again, Shaun", GM Michael interjected with a furrowed brow.

"It's alright Michael", Mae said, looking concerned.

"Mae, right?" Ethan inquired with a charming smile.

"Huh?" Mae responded clearly confused.

"Your name is Mae, correct?" Ethan clarified.

"Yes", Mae confirmed.

"I am thoroughly impressed by your proposal. It is one of the most exceptional I have encountered in my years of business. Your strategy promises substantial profits. I wholeheartedly support the implementation of this plan", Ethan stated as Shaun gazed at him in disbelief.

"Ethan, it involves risks. How do we alleviate potential losses?" Shaun questioned.

"If there are any losses, which I highly doubt, I am willing to put my monthly or yearly salary on the line to cover them", Mae reassured.

"Her plan is fool proof", Ethan remarked with a smug smile.

"If losses do occur, she won't be able to cover them with her earnings", Shaun argued.

"That is why I am prepared to put my earnings on the line as well", Ethan declared.

"You are?" Mae sought confirmation.

"You are supposed to be supporting me", Shaun said he slams his hands on the table.

"I am being paid to support the business, and that is why am backing her. She will undoubtedly enhance our current situation, which is already profitable. Just envision the potential with her remarkable plan", Ethan explained.

"My final decision remains negative", Shaun stated, hoping to conclude the matter.

"I regret to inform you, Mae, but CEO Shaun has the ultimate decision making authority", the chairman expressed with a tinge of disappointment.

"CEO Wilson, your daughter Mae is truly intelligent and courageous. Chairman Owen, there is no need for apologies as we are in full agreement with Mae's proposal", Ethan asserted.

 "I have already declined", Shaun stated firmly, emphasizing that his decision will not be swayed.

"All that is required is your affirmation", Ethan responded, shifting his gaze towards Shaun.

"I am resolute in my decision", Shaun restated.

"We are proceeding with Mae's proposal and that is non-negotiable", Ethan declared.

"Very well, but I must take some time to consider the matter thoroughly and devise emergency plans if necessary, Shaun stated.

"There is no need for further deliberation. I will address any issues that may arise", Ethan asserted as the atmosphere grew tensed.

"Perhaps a brief recess of five minutes to regroup and contemplate our next steps?" Mae suggested.

"Indeed Mae possesses exceptional strategic expertise", Ethan remarked as he stood up. Let us adjourn for five minutes and reconvene to finalize our proceedings", he added before exiting the room.

"See you all in five minutes", Mae called out as she followed Ethan out of the room.