The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress novel Chapter 435

In that instant, everyone who, like Talbot, had been hoping to see Citrine stumble fell completely silent.

While it was true that CICI Group wasn’t yet on the same level as Glenwood Group, anyone with half a brain could see the direction things were going. At the rate CICI was growing, it was only a matter of time before they surpassed Glenwood.

Now, everyone wanted to cozy up to CICI Group and get a piece of the action. No one was foolish enough to risk offending Citrine.

A number of people who’d previously sided with Talbot began to backpedal, offering awkward apologies to Citrine. The rest—those whose interests were inextricably linked with Talbot’s—naturally stood their ground with him, having no choice but to stay loyal.

“I’m terribly sorry, President Carmichael. We didn’t recognize greatness when we saw it,” someone said, forcing a smile.

“Yes, it was thoughtless of us. We hope you can forgive our ignorance, President Carmichael,” another chimed in.

“If there’s ever anything you need, President Carmichael, just say the word. I’ll follow your lead without hesitation.”

“Please don’t hold our earlier misunderstanding against us. We were misled, that’s all.”

As the apologies tumbled out, a few began shamelessly pitching themselves: “President Carmichael, my family owns a pharmaceutical company. Perhaps you’d consider giving us an opportunity? I assure you, you won’t regret working with us.”

“President Carmichael, ours is a tech company. We’d be willing to offer favorable terms if you partnered with us.”

“Don’t listen to them, President Carmichael. Our company is your best choice, I promise.”

One after another, the executives who’d been so hostile just minutes before were now bowing their heads and all but groveling before Citrine, their earlier arrogance replaced with a sudden, almost comical humility. The transformation was complete—a full three-sixty from disdain to deference.

Raymond watched this pathetic display with a cold, amused smirk.

“Shameless. At your age, haven’t you any pride left?” he sneered.