Harris sighed, his brow furrowing as he leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "David, it's not great. Two of our board members are pushing for me to step down as Chairman. They claim I'm incapable of leading the company effectively. It's a mess."
David's expression shifted to one of genuine concern. "That's a tough situation, Harris. But you know you have Steele Enterprises behind you. We've faced challenges before, and we've come out stronger."
Harris nodded, appreciating the support and understanding in David's words. "I know, David, and that's why I came to you. I need Steele Enterprises' support now more than ever. If they manage to oust me as Chairman, it could have devastating consequences not only for the company but for Mallory and Harriet as well."
David leaned back in his chair, contemplating the situation. "You've got my full support, Harris. I'll talk to Dad about this. He values your partnership and the success of the Thompson Group. We'll figure out a way to handle those board members."
Harris felt a wave of relief wash over him. Knowing that David and Steele Enterprises were on his side was a reassuring thought. "Thank you, David. You have no idea how much this means to me. I'll do whatever it takes to keep our family and the Thompson Group secure."
David smiled, a reassuring gesture that conveyed his commitment. "We're in this together, Harris. For our families and our future."
As they returned to the joyful atmosphere of the baby shower, Harris couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of determination. Coleman and Cooper's attempt to oust him couldn't be taken lightly since they have a strong influence to convince the other board members and shareholders on their side. With Steele Enterprises by his side, he sees hope to secure his position as the chairman of Thompson Group.
The next day, Harris wasted no time in communicating with Steele Enterprises regarding his merger proposal. Harris with David and Anthony Steele sat in a tastefully furnished conference room, their expressions focused and determined. The weight of the proposal to save the Thompson Group and thwart the attempt to oust Harris as chairman hung heavily in the air.
David leaned forward, his eyes fixed on Harris. "Harris, this merger proposal is solid. It could be the lifeline Thompson Group needs right now."
Anthony Steele, a distinguished figure in the world of business, nodded in agreement. "I concur. It's a well-thought-out plan, and I believe it's our best course of action."
Harris, grateful for their support, couldn't help but feel a sense of reassurance. "Thank you, both. Your confidence means a lot to me."
David, always the pragmatist, raised an important point. "Harris, have you considered investigating if there might be someone behind this attempt to remove you as chairman? It seems too calculated to be a mere coincidence."
Harris's eyes narrowed in thought. "You're right, David. This feels orchestrated. I need to find out who might be pulling the strings from the shadows."
Anthony, his voice steady and wise, offered guidance. "Harris, I've known you for years, and you've faced your fair share of challenges. You've always had a knack for navigating the complexities of both business and personal matters. Trust your instincts and gather the facts."
Harris appreciated Anthony's words. His mentor had been a pillar of support since the passing of his father. "I will, uncle. Your advice has never steered me wrong."
With a unanimous decision to move forward with the merger and resolve to uncover the truth behind the attempts to destabilize the Thompson Group, the three men solidified their commitment to each other and the future of their business endeavors.
As the meeting concluded, Harris couldn't help but reflect on the remarkable people in his life—Mallory, his unwavering partner; David, his loyal friend; and Anthony Steele, his mentor and father figure. Everything seemed right beside the possibility of someone trying to control two of his board members.
As suggested by David and Anthony Steele, Harris called his trusted private detective, Jane. "Jane, I have a job for you," he said as soon as Jane answered his call.
"I'm listening, Mr. Thompson, let me know what work you have for me this time."
"Recently, two of our board members in Thompson Group tried to oust me as the Chairman, the reason being because of the controversy of me and Mallory circulating on the internet. It was way too shallow, and friends of mine suggested doing a thorough investigation."
"I understand, Mr. Thompson, just give me their full name and a little background I can start with, and I'll do the rest."
"Of course, I'll send it to you. Thank you for this, Jane." With that, the call ended. Harris had a mix of emotions, unsure of who might be behind the move to oust him as the Chairman of the empire built by his Dad.
Despite the turmoil in Thompson Group, Harris remained focused on his professional responsibilities. The merger with Steele Enterprises had progressed smoothly, thanks to Anthony Steele's unwavering support and a well-executed strategy. The Thompson Group was beginning to regain its footing without the Hudson Group, and Harris was determined to steer it back to success and stay as the Chairman.
Harris had a long day at his office and went home after hearing a noise in the backyard. He couldn't help but stare when he walked out into the backyard and saw Mallory in her hot pink two-piece swimsuit. Her figure, accentuated by the vibrant color, was alluring, and he found himself momentarily lost for words. He had always found Mallory beautiful, but there was something particularly captivating about her at that moment.
Mallory, aware of Harris's gaze, couldn't help but feel a rush of self-consciousness. Her cheeks flushed with a rosy hue as she quickly crossed her arms over her midriff. Although they had been comfortable enough with each other to share intimate moments before, this felt different somehow.
Harriet, still blissfully oblivious to the dynamics between her parents, continued to play in the pool, splashing water with delight. Mallory finally found her voice, though it was tinged with a shy playfulness. "Hey, Harris," she greeted, her eyes meeting his with a hint of hesitance.
Harris blinked, as if snapping out of his reverie, and a warm smile crept onto his face. "Hey, you two," he replied, walking closer to the pool's edge. He squatted down to Harriet's level and ruffled her wet hair. "How was swimming class today, sweetie?"
Harriet's eyes lit up as she launched into an enthusiastic account of her swimming adventures. Mallory watched their interaction with a soft smile, appreciating the effortless way Harris connected with their daughter. It was moments like these that made her heart swell with affection for him.
After Harriet had finished her animated storytelling, Harris turned his attention back to Mallory. His eyes, filled with genuine admiration, met hers. "You look incredible," he said, his voice laced with a mixture of desire and affection.
Mallory's blush deepened, but she couldn't help the pleased smile that spread across her face. "Thank you," she replied, feeling a warmth in her chest at his compliment. "I...uh, didn't expect you home so soon."
Harris chuckled softly, the sound sending a pleasant shiver down Mallory's spine. "Well, I couldn't wait to see both of my favorite girls."
They shared a quiet moment together before Mallory turned to Harris, her expression filled with concern. "Harris, have you heard about the news regarding Nicole being infertile?" she asked, her voice laced with empathy.
Harris, who had been following the developments closely, nodded solemnly. "Yes, I've heard about it. And I knew it would come to this."
Mallory's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean, you knew it would come to this?"
Harris took a deep breath before explaining. "Mallory, this is just the beginning of a plan my mother and Dominic have set into motion. They're trying to destabilize the Hudson family, especially Nicole since she turned against them."
Mallory's eyes widened in realization. "You mean... this rumor, is it their doing?"