"Since no one has any objections, is there anything else?"
That was Laurence's way of saying that the meeting was over.
The eight elders replied in unison, "Nothing else."
Tony stood first, saying with a kind smile, "We'll take our leave now and won't disturb your work. If there's anything you don't understand, you can always ask Manny.
“He has managed the company for over ten years and is familiar with everything.
"I heard Manny was supposed to meet with a major client today to discuss a partnership. Has the client arrived yet? You've just taken over the company, so I imagine you wouldn't know much about the project."
Laurence answered, "Mr. Durham, right? I've already signed the contract with him."
"You've signed the contract?"
"Yes. You know how many years I've been in Havenmill, Uncle Tony. I've spent every one of those years studying Longbottom Corporation. I know very well who the company plans to cooperate with and what projects we have.
"Even though I only took office today, I am hardly unfamiliar with the company's major affairs. As for the minor affairs, I leave those to others."
Tony was rendered speechless. His expression immediately darkened.
Laurence wanted him to understand that he could run Longbottom Corporation seamlessly, with or without Manny. He wanted Manny to simply retire early and leave the company more than anyone else.
Unfortunately, Manny had no intention of doing so and planned to remain here until retirement.
Laurence had just taken over, so there was no need to move against Manny immediately. Once he caught Manny making a mistake, there would be plenty of chances to deal with him.
He believed that Manny would deliver that mistake to his doorstep before long.
Manny was not the type to sit quietly. The moment he made a move, he would leave traces behind.
If he had thrown Manny out of Longbottom Corporation the moment he took over, people would call him ruthless. After all, Manny had served as the CEO for many years and deserved some credit.
Laurence called Misty in and told her, "Escort the elders downstairs and make sure they are in their vehicles before returning."
Misty answered respectfully and escorted the eight elders out of the office with a smile, thoughtfully closing the office door behind them.
The noisy office instantly fell silent.
Laurence remained seated in his chair.
Noelle silently walked away to continue reorganizing the office.
"Noelle," Laurence called.
Noelle looked over. "Yes, Mr. Laurence?"
"I can protect you. Our relationship is our own business. No one has the right to interfere."
Noelle replied, “I know. I've never doubted your ability, nor have I ever doubted your feelings for me."
"Have you made your decision?” Laurence asked.
"Didn't you give me two days to think about it? It hasn't been two days yet. I'll give you my answer when the time comes."
Laurence looked at her silently for a long moment before saying, "You can tell me your answer earlier. You don't have to wait until the two days are up."
Noelle remained silent.
She said two days, so it would be two days.
Knowing her nature, Laurence could only smile helplessly. “Fine, two days it is. When the time's up, I'll ask you again. Noelle, I hope you won't disappoint me."
Noelle still said nothing.
Jane's prediction had been right. Now that Laurence had revealed his identity and become the head of the Longbottom family, the family would try to manipulate his marriage.
Fortunately, Laurence was strong enough that no one could force him.