Still, none of the department heads and executives at Stellar Group thought Elise Scott was foolish after working under her leadership for some time.

Before they could indulge in wild theories about Elise’s intentions, she smoothly moved to the next agenda item. “It’s been more than two months since I joined Stellar Group. Thanks to everyone’s support—especially my sister Sophia—I’ve become well-acquainted with the company’s operations and management structure. For that, I sincerely thank you all.”

No one applauded. Not even Sophia, though Elise had clearly acknowledged her contribution.

Unfazed, Elise continued calmly. “As I’ve grown more familiar with the company, I’ve also identified certain inefficiencies and operational gaps. Naturally, these issues require correction. Therefore, I’m announcing a comprehensive reshuffling of positions—affecting everyone in this room.”

Her statement sent a ripple of unrest through the conference room.

A company-wide reshuffle was a major disruption, yet Elise announced it as though it were a minor adjustment.

“I will now read the list of personnel affected by this reshuffle. Of course, if anyone has concerns, you’re welcome to discuss them privately with me or the CEO. Those not on the list are expected to provide reassurance to your teams and coordinate with transferred personnel to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities, minimizing impact on company operations.”

Elise activated the projector and began reading the reassignment list.

“Christopher Brown is hereby relieved of his position as Director of Human Resources. His deputy will assume the role. Christopher will be reassigned as Supervisor of Transport Logistics—”

“What did you just say?” Christopher snapped, rising from his seat with a look of pure disbelief. “You’re demoting me to oversee vehicle maintenance? Is this some kind of joke?”

“It’s no joke,” Elise replied coolly. “You’re well-suited for this role, and Daniel Watson, your deputy, is better equipped to lead the HR department.”

“I’ve dedicated ten years to this company! You can’t just reassign me on a whim—”

“As I stated earlier,” Elise cut him off firmly, “any concerns should be addressed privately with me or the CEO. We will not debate this during the meeting.” Her tone left no room for argument. “Please do not delay the proceedings further.”

Furious, Christopher shoved his chair back and stormed out, slamming the conference room door behind him.

Elise paid no mind to the disruption and continued announcing the remaining reassignments.

The room remained relatively calm, as only two department heads were directly affected.

Wrapping up, Elise added, “Once again, anyone with issues regarding the reshuffle may speak with me or the CEO privately. Reinstatement to original positions is possible under certain circumstances. However, if you disagree with the changes but choose not to discuss them, you have my full support should you decide to pursue opportunities elsewhere. I would never stand in the way of anyone’s professional growth.”

Turning to Daniel, she said, “Please relay this message to Christopher as well. This meeting is adjourned.”

Elise stood, pausing to place a hand on Sophia’s shoulder before leaving. “We have challenging days ahead.”

She didn’t wait for a response.

All she needed was for everyone to witness the apparent solidarity between her and Sophia.

With that, she returned to her office briefly before leaving the building—leaving a messy situation for Sophia to handle.

Before long, Sophia’s office was flooded with disgruntled employees.

Voices overlapped in a chaotic uproar, each person demanding answers, pushing Sophia to the brink of frustration.

She had no prior knowledge of the reshuffle—Elise had never mentioned it—yet everyone assumed it was a joint decision between the two sisters.

No matter how she explained, no one believed her. They refused to speak directly with Elise, no matter how she urged them.

It took considerable effort for Sophia to extricate herself and head to Elise’s office, only to find her long gone.

In that moment, she realized both she and her father had fallen right into Elise’s carefully laid trap.