The meeting soon concluded.


    The shareholders, already showing signs of restlessness, quickly exited the room once it was adjourned.


    Ste lingered at her seat to tidy up a lone document left on the table.


    When only Matthew and she remained, she advised, “I think you might want to consider someone else for the project manager role.


    ”


    Matthew nced at her with a slight frown.


    “Don’t you want the position?”


    Ste shook her head gently.


    “The role is too crucial.


    Initially, I stepped in only to help stabilize the group.


    Now that things are under control, it’s time for me to step down.


    ”


    She looked at Matthew calmly and said, “You know, the so-called first batch of clothes sold at Dorburn was just a bunch of made-up numbers.


    ”


    At that time, she had concocted such a bad scheme to rattle Benny and trap him.


    With aposed expression, Matthew asked, “Why would someone like Be agree to help you fabricate data?”


    Ste had considered this before.


    After all, Be had always been meticulous about her designs and wouldn’t stand for anything so disgraceful.


    Thus, she was also shocked to learn that Be would assist her.


    Matthew responded bluntly, “Your designs hold great value in Be’s eyes.


    She sees it as only a matter of time.


    ”


    This reasoning somewhat convinced Ste, yet she remained reluctant to take such a prominent role.


    “Maybe you’re right, but I still n to step down.


    I have my own studio…”


    Matthew gazed at Ste intently and exined softly, “I didn’t start this project for the money.


    ”


    A flicker of surprise crossed Ste’s face.


    Matthew went on, “I wanted this project to help you get to know Be better, to find out if you’re rted by blood.


    Even though things didn’t go as nned at first, we ended up where we needed to be.


    ”


    Ste hadn’t anticipated such a motive, which made her pause for a moment.


    Matthew ced his hands on her shoulders and dered with a gentle yet firm voice, “And don’t sell yourself short.Ccontent ? exclusive by N?/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    You might not see it, but you’re incredibly skilled.


    I believe you’re the perfect person to lead this project.


    ”


    Encouraged by Matthew’s words, Ste felt a surge of confidence.


    With newfound trust, she replied, “I understand.


    I’ll make sure this project seeds.


    ”


    Having resolved this issue, she recalled Benny’s earlierments and was about to inquire about Gerry.


    However, before she could speak, Neville burst into the meeting room, looking distressed, and announced, “There’s been an incident!”


    Neville usually didn’t get flustered easily.


    It was rare to see him this worked up.


    Matthew’s brow furrowed as he asked, “What happened?”


    Panting, Neville managed to say, “Benny… That scoundrel has escaped!”


    Matthew’s expression turned grim.