At the same time, sunlight streamed through the expansive windows, casting a warm glow over the luxurious office of the Lagos State House. The room was adorned with expensive leather furniture, accentuating the seriousness etched on the faces of Michael, Robert, and Christopher. The scent of fine leather permeated the air as Michael's booming voice filled the space. He was passionately arguing against Moon Corporation's relocation to a remote area. Leaning forward, his intense gaze fixed on the governor, Michael declared, 'If we are to consider relocating, Moon Corporation expects substantial compensation.' Robert and Christopher sat stoically beside him, their expressions mirroring Michael's unwavering resolve.
The governor smiled in response. 'I see you are quite bold... Well, we will need to reconvene here on Friday after consulting with my commissioners.'
Michael stood abruptly, the rustle of his expensive suit filling the room. He locked eyes with the governor, his gaze intense. 'Your Excellency, I am aware that Emmanuel Nnaji is your friend and also a friend of the Njemanzes. I hope he didn't influence your decision, as I have never had any romantic interest in his daughter. As a professional, I keep personal matters separate from business. However,' his voice dropped to a low growl, 'if you choose to align with the drumbeat, I will have no choice but to initiate your impeachment. Despite not being from Lagos State, I hold more power than you can imagine...'
The governor frowned slightly but maintained his composure. 'This is not personal; it is for the benefit of my people,' the governor interjected.
'I certainly hope so. Just a reminder, before Moon Corporation acquired the land for their Lagos branch office in Ikeja, there was a clause explicitly stating that no one has the right to relocate the company. Violating this condition would result in legal liability and hefty compensation,' Michael said coldly, leaning closer. His Chanel cologne wafted through the air, creating a pleasant scent. 'Let me remind you, Your Excellency, that despite your perceived immunity, you can be locked up according to the terms of the land agreement. To show you some respect, I will initiate your impeachment first, and don't even think the President will come to your aid.' With that, Michael grabbed his phone and prepared to leave, his point made clear.
Suddenly, the doorbell rang, causing a momentary interruption. The governor glanced at Robert, who promptly went to answer the door. Since the meeting was confidential, the governor had requested all guards stationed at the door to leave, preventing any possibility of eavesdropping. Upon reaching the door, Robert was taken aback to find Jessica standing there, holding colourful food bags.
'Jessica?' Robert whispered in surprise. 'What are you doing here?'
Jessica, her smile faltering slightly, offered the bags. 'Good afternoon, Robert. I brought food. Would you like to have a meal together after your long and tiring meeting with the governor?'
Robert glanced at the bags, then back at Michael, who was already striding towards the door. 'We're just leaving,' he explained softly.
Disappointment washed over Jessica's face. She had rushed over, hoping to offer a kind gesture, only to find her efforts seemingly wasted.
As Michael reached the doorway, he turned, his gaze falling upon Jessica. His expression hardened, and a coldness seemed to radiate from him. Sensing the shift in atmosphere, Jessica instinctively turned away, a knot of unease tightening in her stomach.
'Spare your efforts, Jessica. No matter what you do, there is only one woman in my heart, and that is Chioma Chima. Stop wasting your time trying to scheme and manipulate, as it will never work on me... Your father being a governor does not give you the audacity to involve another governor in your mess,' Michael declared firmly, his voice laced with determination.
Tears welled up in Jessica's eyes as she spun around to face the governor. Her voice trembled as she stammered, 'I... I...'
The governor, his gaze filled with understanding, offered a gentle smile. 'It's all right, child. I understand the complexities of the situation.'
Michael, along with his team, proceeded to leave. They boarded their car, exiting the gates of Lagos State House and heading towards a luxury restaurant for a well-deserved meal. It was true that Michael had initially mentioned they would only eat after the governor's decision favoured them. However, prior to their arrival at Lagos State House, he had ordered a simple but satisfying meal for his team. Now, he was taking them to an upscale restaurant for lunch. While Michael could be haughty, domineering, and exude a cold aura, he was not the type of person to unjustly punish others.