Chapter 23 "As a condition for our cooperation, I require a 50% equity stake in the company." Rachel declared with unwavering directness as soon as she took her seat. Arthur narrowed his eyes, probing, "Why is that?" She grinned lightly, her eyes sparkling. "The reason is simple. I possess the exclusive formula for Gucci Company and hold a top-tier position in the international perfume industry. Innovation is my forte. I believe President Bridgewater has already conducted market research. Gucci Company's downfall can be attributed to its lack of an authentic formula and innovation. Customers have lost the essence of the original, and their inner desires remain unsatisfied. Regrettably, there is no alternative but to relinquish it." His interest piqued, and a glimmer danced in his eyes. Indeed, he had invested a considerable sum in hiring international experts due to his comprehensive market research. Everything Rachel Morris had articulated was undeniably true. "If Mr. Bridgewater refuses to comply, then there's no basis for our collaboration." Rachel stated with evident impatience as she promptly rose from her seat. "But I would like to impart that I have other irons in the fire. The downfall of Gucci Company won't elude me. While you may have wealth, your wife's company may not be salvageable. It extends beyond mere damage to her reputation. Consider this." she concluded, laying bare his vulnerabilities, before pivoting to depart. Arthur was well-known for his desire to maintain his reputation, and Sheryl Morris was, after all, his wife. The humiliation of Gucci's fall would inevitably bring mockery upon him. "Alright, I agree." he declared just as she was about to exit the room, his magnetic voice piercing the air. She let out an internal sigh of relief, a glint of cold determination sparking in her eyes. Reclaiming Gucci's equity was just one aspect of her mission. The primary purpose was to uncover the truth behind her mother's death. If she left now, it would be impossible to proceed with her mission. While she was willing to fight for her cause, she would not let her mother's memory be tarnished. However, just as Rachel and Arthur concluded their negotiations and signed the contract, the click-clack of high heels reverberated through the room. Sheryl stormed in with an air of fury. For Sheryl, the skies darkened at that very moment. Lily Windsor, a close friend and classmate of Sheryl's, had awakened her with a call seething with anger. Lily had reported that Rachel had returned with two unexpected bastards. Having pursued marriage into a wealthy family, Lily had ultimately settled for an older man. Sheryl, on the other hand, had aspired to become Mrs. Bridgewater and was driven by inside information from a close confidant at the company to rush over. President's Office. Rachel lifted her head ever so slightly, her expression unwavering. Sheryl's once-beautiful visage had twisted into an unsettling distortion, a sinister glint in her eyes. However, her demeanor quickly shifted as she beheld Arthur sitting on the sofa, an imposing figure like a steadfast deity. She was momentarily stunned and immediately lowered her gaze, adopting a pitiful appearance. "Arthur, Gucci Company was a company given to me by my father. You can't dilute the equity with others." she implored as she approached him, took his arm, and began to weep. Chapter 23 Arthur met her gaze, then shifted his attention to Rachel, seated across from him. He gently touched Sheryl's face, his voice calm and reassuring. "Don't worry, you'll remain the company's director. Your expertise lies in other areas, after all." Could she become Mrs. Bridgewater? A glimmer of hope flashed in Sheryl's teary eyes, and she soon recognized the implications. Her entire coquettish countenance lit up with joy. Was Arthur finally going to propose? The sparkle in her eyes intensified. Title: ReelTalk EP 40 - Contract Lovers & Heartbreak CrushReel's ongoing romance series, Miss You After Goodbye, continues to captivate on the latest ReelTalk episode. Haley Lohrli dives into her daring new character, while Ben and Josh share insights into their own memorable roles, promising a blend of laughter and heartwarming moments. Exploring themes of love, loss, and unexpected connections, this episode delves deep into the intricate relationships that drive the narrative forward. As the stars reveal their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie, viewers are in for a treat with each unfolding scene. What sets this episode apart is its ability to balance humor with poignant storytelling, offering a refreshing take on modern romance dynamics. Dive into the world of Contract Lovers & Heartbreak, available to read at CrushReel for a journey that promises both entertainment and emotional resonance.