19 Five years later, at North Carolina Airport, I was representing the Bellemare Company, attending the acquisition conference for the Fleming Corporation's largest subsidiary. If this deal went through, the Flemings' standing in the corporate world would take a heavy blow. The plane had barely touched down when my assistant handed me a cup of coffee-black, with milk and sugar-alongside a stack of documents that required my signature. "President, your foresight and strategy really never cease to amaze me," he said with heartfelt admiration. kept working methodically, glancing at him with a casual smile as I asked, "Oh? And why do you say that?" 'That's the Fleming Corporation's number one brand we're talking about-the same company hat dominated North Carolina just five years ago! And you've only been at the helm of Bellemare Company for five short years, yet you're already swallowing up such a massive acquisition. If it's not sheer capability, I can't think of any other explanation." His youthful eyes practically shone with reverence, as though he was one step away from >owing down to me on the spot. Fleming Corporation's decline was within my expectations," I replied calmly. "This acquisition i only the beginning, not the end." The ache in my feet, trapped in high heels, reminded me that my rehabilitation hadn't beer complete for long. slowed my pace slightly. I couldn't afford to grow careless-perseverance was still necessary. That's exactly why I say your vision is unmatched!" my assistant said eagerly. "Back then, ever would've dared to imagine acquiring Fleming Corporation. But now, working under you, eel like there's nothing I can't dream of." lis earnestness made me laugh. Alright, enough flattery. Let's head to the venue." nside the conference hall, the air buzzed with chatter. Media outlets and business moguls had lready gathered, their discussions filling the space. The moment I walked in, the noise fell away. Every gaze turned toward me, silence descending ike a ripple through water. greeted them with a poised smile and a polite nod before taking my seat at the head table. Yet the meeting failed to begin on time. Staff scurried about, their anxiety palpable as the murmur of the crowd grew restless. At last, when the commotion threatened to spiral out of control, a representative from Fleming Corporation appeared, sweating profusely. "Ms. Bellemare," he stammered, "our deepest apologies, but Mr. Fleming... will not be attending today due to unforeseen matters." I offered a faint smile. "It doesn't matter. Proceed as planned." As Bellemare Company's representative, I delivered the acquisition speech. My words were precise, logical, and powerful, leaving no doubt about our strength or determination. The audience of media and business elites listened intently, occasionally nodding in admiration or breaking into soft murmurs of approval. When the speech concluded, I was immediately approached by reporters. 'Ms. Bellemare, what are your expectations for this acquisition?" one asked. Maintaining a composed, polished expression, I answered steadily, "This acquisition marks a crucial milestone for Bellemare Company. Through it, we aim not only to strengthen our foothold n North Carolina but also to create better opportunities for Fleming Corporation's employees noving forward..." Soon, the acquisition conference wrapped up successfully. At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the tension in my chest finally eased. North Carolina... fter five long years, the city felt both familiar and strangely foreign. s the bustling crowd gradually dispersed, like the tide retreating from shore, I noticed a mar tanding quietly in the corner. hat all-too-familiar figure-Clint. 1:20 pm P P &