ROWLAND (From Ruin to Rule)

Chapter 18: The Silent Sabotage

Mr. Fence's response infuriated Clinton. He slammed his phone against his desk, fists clenched.

He was shocked that his father had assigned Rowland—a novice and unproven "rookie"—to manage such a significant undertaking. Frustration whizzed through his head. How could his father have believed such a person as Rowland?

Clinton called Mr. and Mrs. Jones without any delay.

"Clinton?" Mrs. Jones responded, her tone from the previous meeting still astringent.

"I just spoke with my father," Clinton growled, "and it appears Rowland is here to stay. But that does not mean we will let this go." His tone reflected his growing resentment, with a hint of venom and calculated bitterness.

"It makes no difference what my father says. That idiot has no business being involved in this project.”

Mrs. Jones grasped the phone more tightly, her anger at the public humiliation matching her own. "What are your suggestions? We cannot openly defy Fence Emerald without jeopardizing their investment."

"I do