Chapter 3

While speaking, she caressed my chest.

In the past, I couldn't resist this kind of flirtation from her. Now my heart remained completely unmoved.

"I see Millia gets whatever she wants from her family. Today she was smiling while holding a tablet sitting at a pink piano."

I deliberately spoke sarcastically.

Victoria froze first, then exploded, standing up abruptly and frowning. "Why do you have to compare with others?"

"It's just a gift. Why are you being so passive-aggressive? Are you deliberately picking a fight?"

"Is it Diego who wants a gift, or is it you?"

I said nothing, just looked up and stared into her eyes.

After a moment of tense atmosphere, Victoria seemed guilty. She looked away, and her tone softened considerably.

"Collins, let's not fight. The day after tomorrow is Diego's birthday, and I'll definitely prepare a big surprise for him!"

"Keep yourself in a good mood these next couple days and get ready for the seven-day Scandinavian trip."

I nodded and went to the study under the pretext of handling work.

The next day at the company meeting, Osman suddenly spoke up. "Someone should take over Collins's work while he's on vacation, right?"

"I'd like to volunteer."

The corner of his mouth lifted in a smile, his eyes fixed on me with a hint of provocation.

Everyone was stunned and looked at Victoria in unison, waiting for a response.

It was just a seven-day vacation—normally Victoria or a deputy could have filled in.

No one expected Osman to dare demand authority publicly. It was rather absurd.

"Do as Osman says."

Victoria took a deep breath and looked at me. "Collins, relax on your vacation. Leave the work to Osman. He's quite capable."

The room fell silent. This time everyone looked at me.

"Collins, you don't think I'm trying to steal your position, do you?"

Osman smiled even more brightly, his tone even more provocative.

Everyone could smell the tension.

I'd been at Victoria Group for ten years—everyone knew I was decisive and formidable, not someone to mess with.

Even Victoria seemed nervous.

But I just smiled. "Fine, I agree."

No one expected me to yield authority so easily. Only Victoria breathed a long sigh of relief and showed a smile.

Before she could say anything, I stood up and left.

Victoria immediately followed me out and grabbed my hand from behind.

"Collins! Let me explain..."

I turned and interrupted. "Explain what? That this whole meeting was targeted at me?"

Never mind me—anyone could see Victoria was paving the way for Osman at my expense.

And it started with the seven-day Scandinavian trip.

Her schemes ran too deep. I hadn't noticed before.

"Collins, let me explain properly."

Victoria opened her arms and hugged me tightly, speaking earnestly. "Osman is talented. He can shine and bring new vitality to the company."

"I was forced to come up with this solution."

"When you get back, I'll definitely make you vice chairman of the company. I hope you can understand."

Vice chairman? Don't make me laugh!

Since Victoria Group was established, there had never been a vice chairman position!

Just like the gift she kept promising Diego—it was nothing but empty words.

"For ten years, I've been understanding you, being considerate of your difficulties."

After hesitating for a few seconds, I sighed.

"Yes, you're the best!"

Victoria actually thought I wasn't angry anymore. After complimenting me, she turned and went back to the conference room.

When I was packing up things in my office, Osman walked in.