Mr. Villain's Lovely Wife (Izzy) novel Chapter 19

Chapter 19 

Izzy had never imagined she’d find satisfaction in Calen’s discomfort. For years, she’d held back, never once considering the idea of challenging hum 

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But today proved her wrong. Maybe her old restraint came from time when she’d spent three years seeing him as someone to admire, almost worship. 

“Let’s discuss the mancial structure for this phases approach, Miss Rossi,” Renard Weiss began as he opened a bottle of water. “You mentioned the initial revenue generation from the wellness spa and dining areas before the casino opening How does that align with projected profit margins?” 

Izzy stepped forward. She had been preparing for this presentation long before discovering Calen’s betrayal and knew every detail by heart. “Yes, Mr. Weiss. By launching the wellness spa and dining areas first, we can establish an initial revenue stream, easing cash flow concerns during casino construction. Our projections indicate that by the end of the first phase, we could reach a break–even point within eight months, particularly with high–margin wellness packages aimed at upscale clientele.” 

Renard Weiss nodded, visibly intrigued. “And what about the Cultural Center? I know it won’t bring in direct revenue, but how do you envision its return on investment?” 

Izzy clicked on the next slide, which was a breakdown of the Cultural Center’s impact. “While the Cultural Center isn’t at direct revenue driver, we expect it to create high–value brand equity. Partnering with local artists and cultural institutions offers opportunities for government grants and tax incentives, which would lower our overall costs. In the long term, this could reduce operational expenses by up to fifteen percent.” 

Hearing this, Calen clenched his jaw, clearly not appreciating how smoothly she navigated each question. But Renard seemed impressed. “Fifteen percent is substantial. And tax incentives would be critical as we expand into Asia. That’s smart thinking, Izzy.” 

“Thank you, Mr. Weiss,” Izzy replied, turning back to her presentation. “Additionally, the Cultural Center will position us as a key player in sustainable tourism, giving us leverage for future bids in other regulated Asian markets like Singapore or Japan 

Renard leaned back thoughtfully, absorbing her response. “Now, let’s talk about customer acquisition. With so many competitors focusing on high–stakes gambling, how are we ensuring a unique clientele without compromising Pearl’s profitability?” 

Izzy anticipated this and pulled up the next slide. “Our marketing strategy is centered around experiences beyond the casino. By targeting the luxury wellness and cultural travel segments, we reach an untapped demographic. Travelers who might bypass Macau for destinations like Kyoto or Bali will now see it as an option. With the phased approach, we’re essentially making the Pearl a multi–faceted destination rather than just a casino resort.” 

Renard nodded slowly, smiling. “So, you’re diversifying the guest portfolio. It’s a wise approach. And the projections?” 

Izzy gestured to a chart on the screen. “With our market segmentatio 

we estimate a fifty percent occupancy rate within the first quarter of opening the initial phases, increasing to seventy–five percent as we complete the casino and entertainment areas. The diversified appeal mitigates risk during the early stages, ensuring steady occupancy even before the casino opens.” 

Renard smiled, visibly satisfied with her responses. “Excellent work, Izzy. I appreciate the thorough approach. It’s exactly what we need for a sustainable entry into the Asian market.” 

Calen’s fingers tightened on the back of his chair, frustration etched into his expression. Izzy wouldn’t normally do any presentations in front of his father. In fact, since Izzy started working for their company, she had only presented once, and that was because Calen was sick. This was Calen’s job! Why was she taking all the credits? 

“We’ll need to evaluate that further,” he interjected while glaring at Izzy, hoping she would read the room and shut her mouth “Projections are just that–projections. Until we see tangible returns, I’m not convinced this level of initial spending 

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Chapter 19 

on non–gambling elements is the right call” 

Renand’s gaze shifted to Calen, a faint frown forming on his face “Calen, we’ve seen in other markets that diversifying our appeal can extend the lifecycle of these projects. This approach could position us well for additional growth across Asia” 

Calen held his father’s gaze as he struggled to keep his irritation check. “Of course, Dad. But let’s not overlook the fact that this is a casino resort. Our clientele expects a high–end, high stakes experience that drives up spending. The Cultural Center and wellness focus don’t cater to that core demographic 

Renard’s expression hardened slightly as he looked at his son. “We’re not just here for short–term gains. LX Hotels is establishing a brand identity in Asia, and that requires a balanced culturally sensitive approach. I expected you, of all people, to understand that.” 

Calen’s jaw tightened, but he forced a nod. “Understood. We’ll proceed as recommended.” 

Izzy felt a quiet satisfaction as she watched Calen reluctantly agree. For the first time, he couldn’t undermine her with his usual tactics, not with his father’s eyes on him. It was clear to everyone in the room where the real support lay 

Renard turned to Izzy one last time. “I look forward to seeing the final phases take shape, Miss Rossi. Keep me updated directly on your progress. This is one of the most promising projects we’ve taken on in years.” 

Izzy nodded. “Of course, Mr. Weiss. I’ll ensure you have regular updates.” 

“If you need anything else, you can directly approach my secretary to schedule a meeting,” Mr. Weiss said, smiling. 

“Thank you, sir,” Izzy nodded. When she secretly invited Mr. Weiss, she had anticipated many questions. The fact that the EEO gave her permission to approach him directly was enough to make her smile. It seemed she had gained much from her small gamble. 

With that, Renard rose from his seat, signaling the end of the discussion. He gave Izzy a nod of approval before leaving the room, leaving Calen visibly seething. As the door closed behind his father, Calen’s mask of professionalism cracked. “Meeting adjourned!” Sensing Calen’s mood, everyone else in the room quickly gathered their things, including Izzy. 

However, Calen was far from done. He glared at Izzy and raised his voice. “To my office!” Calen hissed, getting up from his seat. “Now!” Then he marched out of the boardroom. 

Seeing this, Izzy couldn’t help but smile inwardly. Calen had been so used to ordering her around, making her do his job. It was time to teach him a lesson. She slowly gathered her things and followed behind him. 

Izzy stepped into Calen’s office, her expression composed as she closed the door behind her. Calen was already standing by his desk, his fists clenched, pacing furiously. He turned to face her, his glare intense. 

“What the hell were you doing in there?” he snapped, his eyes blazing as he gestured toward the boardroom. “Do you think this is some game, Izzy?” 

Izzy blinked, tilting her head slightly as if confused. “What do you mean? I was just presenting the Pearl Project as planned 

Calen scoffed, crossing his arms tightly. “Don’t play innocent. You went behind my back, inviting my father without telling me. Do you have any idea how that made me look?” 

Izzy clasped her hands in front of her, her face showing nothing but polite surprise. “Calen, I only invited Mr. Weiss because I thought he’d want to understand the risks involved. You seemed so sure of your approach that I figured an outside perspective might be helpful.” 

Calen’s expression hardened. “Helpful? You humiliated me in front of my entire team! You questioned my judgment and brought in my father to override my decision. You undermined me, Izzy. Don’t pretend you didn’t know exactly what you were doing!” He began pacing around his office, fists clenched. The urge to hurl something–maybe the vase on his desk- gripped him, desperate need to release his frustration. But he knew that wouldn’t serve him. His father would hardly see such a display as a sign of his fitness to be the next CEO 

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