With that final display of protective disdain, Brady turned on his heel and strode away from the scene.
Eric’s thoughts churned with wry amusement as he watched the dramatic exit. What kind of mature father figure behaved with such obvious childishness? He turned his attention back to Hadley, his expression softening into a genuine smile. “Your brother demonstrates remarkable devotion to your well-being and happiness.”
“He absolutely does,” Hadley agreed with a confirming nod, her appreciation for Brady’s character evident in every word. “Please wait here for just a moment while I go upstairs to change my clothes.”
“Of course.” Eric’s agreement came easily as he settled into position outside in the yard, content to wait patiently for her return.
He retrieved his phone and placed a call to Phillips, who remained stationed at the front gate.
“Phillips, I need to discuss something important with you…”
“The logistics department oversees the supply chain operations, and it appears that the Jenkins family’s supermarket chain is one of the contenders in the bidding process. Am I right?” Eric asked.
“Indeed,” Phillips responded with a nod. “But theirs is just a fledgling enterprise, hardly comparable in stature to the venerable brands we typically consider.”
Eric arched an eyebrow, a spark of conviction in his gaze. “Given time and dedication, even a newcomer can rise to prominence. Shouldn’t we give an up-and-coming player a chance to prove their mettle?”
Phillips understood the underlying message—Eric was showing his support for Brady.
As anticipated, Eric pressed on with conviction. “Let Brady have the opportunity. I’m confident he’ll deliver.”
Brady’s earnest nature was his greatest asset, his youth perhaps his only Achilles’ heel.
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Yet, with a guiding hand, Eric believed he could flourish, and Eric was more than willing to extend that support.
“Very well,” Phillips replied, understanding the directive. “I’ll inform the team.”
“Excellent,” Eric said with a satisfied nod.
That afternoon, a wave of astonishment washed over Brady when his secretary burst into his office with unexpected news from the Scott Group.
“We won the bid?” Brady asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.
“Absolutely, Mr. Jenkins!” the secretary beamed, barely containing her excitement.
Brady’s mind reeled.
He had entered the bidding process with modest expectations, viewing it as a learning opportunity rather than a realistic shot at victory.
Yet, against all odds, success had found him.
His thoughts drifted to an encounter earlier that morning on Jewel Avenue, where he had crossed paths with Eric. A suspicion began to take root.
“I see,” Brady said, regaining his composure. “Thank you. You may return to your duties.”
Once alone, Brady mulled over the situation and then reached for his phone to call Hadley.
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