The Heiress’ Return: Six Brothers at Her Beck and Call (Wynter Quinnell) novel Chapter 1691

Wynter continued, "I'm here to tell you people to conduct your businesses properly. What my great-great grandfather said when establishing this Chamber of Commerce still holds true today.

"Even in commerce, one must uphold integrity and principles—do not flatter foreign powers or rely on ill-gotten gains. A gentleman earns wealth in an upright manner.

"And as for your concern for Mr. Keller's hobbies—what exactly is your intention? Are you hoping to get yourselves arrested as well?"

As she spoke, cold sweat began to bead on the members' foreheads.

"Ms. Quinnell, that's not what we meant. It's just that the market environment isn't great, and we were wondering if there might be policies to help our businesses grow together. It would be good for the chamber as well, wouldn't it?" one of the members said.

Wynter's gaze swept toward the speaker. She knew better than anyone that the business world wasn't simply black or white. Greed was an inevitable part of human nature and was what fueled the engine of commerce.

She didn't fear people having self-interests, nor did she believe that every trace of "evil" needed to be eradicated. But she had her principles. She was here to set the rules and to ensure everyone understood the boundaries.

"You people shouldn't need me reminding you of this chamber's founding principles," Wynter said steadily. "The reason you're all still standing here is because you haven't crossed the line.

"I understand everyone needs to make money, but think before you act. The same goes for what you say—be mindful of your words. In the future, within this chamber, I do not want to see anyone relying on so-called unspoken rules.

"The Whitman family isn't the Wray family, and I am not Kenton Wray. The Quinnell family will inject three billion as an investment into the chamber's projects, and policies are already in place. It's up to you to make your choice.

"You are all aware of how the Quinnell family conducts its affairs. I may not live up to a tenth of Grandpa Gordon's legacy, but I will never bow to anyone. Hence, there's no need to overthink or scheme when dealing with me.

"Me, too! Honestly, I'm sick of those so-called leaders standing up there, talking about everything but the project review. My whole company is waiting on that approval to eat!" another chimed in.

"Ms. Quinnell, if things can really be as straightforward as you say, it'll be a relief for all of us!"

These people had been trapped in a toxic environment for far too long. Under Kenton's regime, it was the sycophants who reaped the rewards. The limited market share often meant that they couldn't secure projects without connections.

As a result, some had to resort to layoffs, which hurt their reputation as bosses. But if the conditions allowed, who wouldn't want to be a good boss?

The Southern Cascadia Chamber of Commerce's original purpose was to support small and medium-sized enterprises, ensuring they weren't pushed out of the market by monopolies.