CEO's Contract Obsession-Chapter 284: Close A Deal

Every month, the branch managers are required to visit Bellory Main Office and provide a comprehensive update on the status and progress of their individual branches. In addition to the monthly performance review, it is mandatory for them to submit a weekly report every Friday.

In addition, they are expected to include any negative incidents or challenges they encounter at their respective branches in their report. This allows the higher-ups to address the issues immediately or enables other branch managers to share their best practices in resolving similar challenges.

Moreover, this occasion serves as an opportunity for the branch managers to foster stronger work relationships and enhance their sense of belonging within the Bellory team. It is organized as an enjoyable gathering where everyone on the team can partake in delicious food and drinks. This builds a pleasant and enjoyable atmosphere for all since this is the only time that they can spend time together as a team.

Mary’s mom enthusiastically volunteered to participate in the gathering, as it provided her with a perfect excuse to cook for the girls. Additionally, being the head pastry chef of the company, she rightfully earned the privilege to join in the enjoyable event. 𝕗𝚛𝚎𝚎𝐰𝗲𝗯𝗻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝗹.𝕔𝐨𝕞

Filled with excitement for their inaugural performance review and weekly update, everyone arrived early at the main office. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, as it marked the first of many significant milestones for the team. The abundance of food was a delightful sight, and in celebration of this special occasion, the company extended the invitation to all its members, allowing everyone to enjoy the bountiful feast.

The branch managers were filled with eagerness to showcase the performance of their respective establishments, as each café had its own positive news to share. While there were a few unavoidable mishaps and setbacks, they were of minor nature and could be easily resolved. There was no need for major concern or worry, as the overall situation was manageable.

Once all the branch performance reports were presented, everyone eagerly made their way to the pantry for the highly anticipated team lunch. The delicious and hearty meal was expertly prepared by Helen, Mary’s mom, along with the assistance of the farm staff and the dedicated team from Bellory’s main branch.

The employees couldn’t help but shower Helen with praise for her exceptional cooking skills, as every dish she prepared was not only delicious but also evoked a sense of nostalgia. Helen intentionally chose to prepare home-cooked dishes, adding her unique twists to make them perfectly suitable for the occasion. In doing so, she skillfully achieved her goal of creating a memorable and satisfying dining experience for everyone present.

"Auntie Helen, this is absolutely delicious! I’ve been missing the taste of the food you used to cook back home. Thank you for choosing to prepare it for us today," Amy exclaimed with genuine delight in her voice.

"I had a feeling that you all might be missing the taste of home while being here in the city. It’s been quite some time since any of you have visited. I must admit, it feels a bit lonely without my four girls around," Helen replied, her eyes reflecting a hint of sadness.

"Mom, I think you should convince Amy to stay there for a while, it will be good for her baby," Mary said.

"My goodness, Amy, why didn’t you mention it before?" Helen started to say, but Amy quickly interrupted her before she could continue.

"About that..." Amy began, her mouth still full as she hastily swallowed everything to bring an end to her prank, "I am not pregnant."

"What?!" Mary, Sandra, and Maya exclaimed in unison, clearly taken aback by the revelation.

Helen, trying to make sense of the situation, asked, "So, was it a false positive result then?"

"Uhm... No, it’s not a false positive. I recently had my first period after the miscarriage, and it didn’t go smoothly. I was feeling unwell and experiencing symptoms similar to pregnancy, so Henry assumed I was expecting. Then, my talkative security team informed Rei, and the news spread like wildfire. Everyone assumed I was pregnant without even asking me first. Before I knew it, there was a small party at my home, and everyone was showering me with gifts and congratulations.

Initially, I was annoyed that nobody bothered to talk to me before assuming, so I decided to play a little prank on them. Besides, I didn’t want their thoughtful gifts to go to waste—they are really cute and pretty, Auntie," Amy explained before proceeding to slice the cake in front of her.

The three ladies stood there, their surprise slowly fading as they absorbed Amy’s explanation. They couldn’t help but acknowledge that they were at fault for not reaching out to her, even just to check on her well-being when she wasn’t feeling well.

"I understand, dear," Helen replied with a gentle smile. "But I do hope that in the future, I will have the joy of seeing children running around the farm once again."

"Absolutely, Auntie. Henry and I are planning to take a vacation before visiting Jayson. He’ll be released from the hospital soon, and we’ll spend some quality time with him. His recovery is progressing remarkably well, and the doctor mentioned that after one to three months of home therapy in Brookegrove, he’ll be able to return home here," Amy joyfully shared.

"That is certainly excellent news. And how is the progress at the wellsite, dear?" Helen inquired further.

"The construction is progressing rapidly. It’s possible that two wells will be completed even before I return," Amy replied. Then, she turned to Mary and asked, "By the way, Mary, how would you feel if I decided to step away from Bellory completely and leave everything in your hands?"

"And where are you planning to go?" Mary asked, her concern for her friend outweighing any thoughts about her position in the company.

"I have intentions to oversee the management of the wellsite with the support of Henry and Anton. Additionally, we are actively seeking someone with extensive expertise in that specific industry to provide me with comprehensive training beyond the basics," Amy clarified.

"Hmm, that sounds like a solid plan," Mary responded with a playful wink. "In that case, I wouldn’t mind taking on the role of CEO at Bellory. You can be our esteemed Chairwoman, Amy." Her remark elicited laughter from everyone present.

"That reminds me... There was a Mr. Turner whom your dad used to collaborate with, along with Ash’s father. I overheard some of their conversation about a potential business venture in the oil refinery industry while I was serving them snacks. That person seemed to possess extensive knowledge of the subject. Perhaps you should seek advice from Ash," Helen shared with them.

"I believe I know who you’re referring to, Auntie. That would be Uncle Dimitri, and they have exclusive business agreements with the Brighton family. It might be challenging for me to secure a deal with him," Amy responded.

"In that case, why not consider closing a deal with Lucas?" Helen suggested.

"Mom, Amy would never do that, and we wouldn’t allow her to either. Isn’t that right, girls?" Mary affirmed, receiving nods of agreement from Sandra and Maya.

"I might just approach Ash instead of his dad to close a deal," Amy exclaimed, causing everyone to look at her with surprise and disbelief.