Chapter 454

Olivia Sinclair's expression turned to stone. The mask of the benevolent philanthropist had shattered completely. Her sole objective now was to ensure Alistair Kensington would never reconnect with his true family.

Let them remain estranged for eternity, as far as she was concerned. Blood relations meant nothing. The only thing that mattered was Alistair believing her fabricated tale. If she could manipulate him into formally acknowledging her, she'd seamlessly assume the position of Kensington family heiress without any objections.

Humming a cheerful melody, Olivia departed the premises in remarkably good spirits.

Meanwhile, after several relaxing days spent with Isabelle, Olivia concluded it was time to investigate Liam Blackwood's company operations. Though she'd cherished this downtime, Olivia hadn't been idle - she'd thoroughly researched Halstead's local market during her break.

The historic coastal city was renowned for its antique trade and thriving pearl industry, which had spawned numerous prestigious jewelry businesses.

Liam's enterprise had once been among the industry leaders, highly respected and phenomenally successful several years prior.

Recently however, it had been plagued by consecutive scandals culminating in a disastrous error that nearly destroyed the company entirely.

Recalling her bold declaration to Liam earlier, Olivia now experienced a pang of regret. Liam had undoubtedly alerted the director about her impending visit, and upon entering the corporate office, the director immediately began guiding her through operations.

Every remaining employee appeared intensely focused on their work. Despite the company's spacious layout, the building felt conspicuously underpopulated.

Before Olivia could comment, the director cleared his throat uncomfortably. "We've experienced some... workforce reductions recently," he admitted hesitantly.

Her eyebrows knitted together in concern. "Exactly how many resignations this month?"

The director shrugged helplessly. "At least thirty."

Olivia's eyes widened at the staggering number. At this rate, bankruptcy loomed within two months. With such rapid employee attrition, recruiting new talent would prove increasingly difficult.

"Are there additional contributing factors?" Olivia pressed.

She noted Liam hadn't mentioned this crisis before her arrival - he'd had no reason to conceal it. The director lowered his head, his voice thick with remorse.

"Miss Sinclair, I never intended to withhold this information, but circumstances left me no alternative. The company hemorrhages funds monthly. Continued losses would terminate all our positions."

"I've reluctantly encouraged some resignations because we simply cannot meet payroll obligations. Had Mr. Blackwood discovered this situation, he would have shuttered operations immediately. I've been fighting to keep us solvent."

Olivia's suspicions had been nearly accurate. Hearing the director's confession, conflicting emotions tangled within her. "I understand. Keep me informed of any new developments."

The director ventured cautiously, "Miss Sinclair, even if you terminate my position, I must ask - can you salvage this company? I've devoted ten years here since graduation. The benefits were exceptional, the work fulfilling. I genuinely love this place. It's survived so many challenges..."

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