The Incredible Anderson Denfield: path to power

06

" You must be Raymond Baker, the acting general manager,” Anderson started to smile as he talked

Raymond smiled nervously, his hands clasped together.

“You honor me, sir. I’m just a loyal servant of the Denfield family,” he said humbly, bowing slightly.

Anderson’s reputation preceded him—a man known for wielding power with an iron fist. One word from him could elevate or obliterate a career. Raymond knew this too well and he planned to impress him well on their first meeting.

What if I say the wrong thing? What if the numbers I presented aren’t enough? The thought sent a cold shiver down his spine.

" You are actually doing well, Ray. I'm impressed with the statistics and reports I have received so far. " Anderson smiled

He had heard rumors of Anderson to be heartless and ruthless but he was seeing the total opposite.

“Thank you, Mr. Denfield,” Raymond was flustered.

He had braced himself for a rich , arrogant tyrant, but Anderson’s humble attitude caught him off guard.

The rumors of his ruthlessness and arrogance seemed distant now and too good to be true, but Raymond wasn’t naive enough to let his guard down.

Anderson nodded slightly, “Sorry for calling you down here on short notice. It seems there’s nothing pressing after all.”

" No, no, Mr. Denfield. " Raymond said politely.

" I'm always at your service"

“Good,” Anderson said sharply “In that case, let’s return to the meeting. The investors should be ready by now.”

“Of course, sir. After you,” Raymond said, stepping aside gracefully and gesturing for Anderson to take the lead.

Anderson smiled and moved checking his wristwatch.

It was almost evening and he had to round up quick.

" Raymond"

" Yes, Mr. Denfield" Raymond hurried beside Anderson

" I need an update on the progress of the expansion project and details of the latest acquisition proposal. What are the investors saying on it? "

"Of course, Mr. Denfield," he replied. "The expansion is on schedule and the new contracts from overseas have been finalized. As for the acquisition proposal, the investors seem to disagree on pushing the project and even your father thinks the same "

Anderson gave a faint nod. "Good. They will when they get to meet me. I will personally inspect the progress. Arrange a meeting with my dad tomorrow."

Raymond inclined his head respectfully. "Consider it done, sir."

The delegates behind Raymond remained silent. They exchanged nervous glances, unsure if Anderson would call on them next.

Anderson suddenly stopped, then turned his gaze to the lingering crowd of employees and passersby who had been spectators to the drama. His cold eyes scanned the room in a manner that seemed to inflict fear.

"I believe many of you have work to do," he stated, his voice cutting through the air like a blade. "Unless you're planning to explain your idleness during the next performance review."

The crowd quickly dispersed, murmuring apologies and hurrying back to their posts.

Anderson watched them leave, without a single smile on his face.

He nodded to himself and moved into his private elevator and the men behind followed suit.

Anderson remained silent, staring at the floor indicator as it climbed.

He had to convince the investors to agree with the proposal and he knew just how to.

He turned to his side and noticed how the other men were standing on their toes.

He decided to break the silence

" Raymond, do you know anyone by the name, Alex, I heard we have some major partnership with him "

" Yes. Alex Blake. We are at the last stage of finalizing the new expansion project with him. Based on his portfolio we have reviewed, we are rest assured he's the right choice. "

"Raymond," Anderson continued.

" Inform every department head that this contract is no longer open for bidding. Alex’s proposal is officially disqualified. I dont think he's worth it "

Raymond was confused but he knew better than to argue with the boss.

" Also, I want a comprehensive investigation on Alex’s business dealings. If there’s anything irregular, I want it reported to the authorities by the end of the week."

Raymond hesitated, looking confused. "Of course, sir. May I ask why?"

Anderson didn’t answer.

Raymond nodded, understanding that the subject was closed.

Raymond’s mind raced with thoughts. Alex had been their top candidate—what could have prompted such a drastic decision? But the ice in Anderson’s voice warned him to keep his questions to himself."

Just then, a low chime signaled their arrival on their desired floor and the elevator door opened.

" Let's just say I don't trust a man who hides too many things behind a polished smile." Anderson said before stepping out of the elevator.

Anderson left the elevator with Raymond at his side, his footsteps echoing in the gleaming hallway as they walked toward the grand meeting hall.

Guards lined the hallway, motionless as Anderson passed

As they neared the entrance, the doors swung open automatically.

Inside, hundreds of individuals stood at attention, their eyes immediately fixing on Anderson.

The room was a sea of suits and ties, all of them seemingly held in place by the weight of his presence.

Everyone's eyes was on the movement he made.

He got to his seat and sat down and they all followed suit.

Anderson briefly scanned the faces before him.

"Let the meeting begin,"he said , his voice breaking the silence.

*

*

Meanwhile at the Ellington villa.

Ashley was at home. it was 8 PM in the evening, and she had just finished chatting with Alex.

She walked to her closet to pick out her outfit for the next day when her eyes landed on Anderson's clothes, neatly folded in a corner.

A surge of rage consumed her instantly. Why are these still here?

Without a second thought, she yanked them out, flinging the garments to the floor in a fit of fury.

As the clothes scattered, a series of small envelopes tumbled out from between them, spreading across the carpet.

Curiosity momentarily replaced her anger. Frowning, she bent down and picked one up. Each envelope bore an elegant gold crest pressed into the seal, giving them an air of importance.

Ashley hesitated, then tore the crest off one of the envelopes.