123. Controlling The Crowd
On The Day of the Gala.
The largest hall of the grandest hotel in Phoenix City echoed with indistinct chatter, laughter, and the sounds of glass clinking in cheers.
There were so many people in one place. So many reputable businessmen and women dressed in outstanding outfits, obviously out to impress.
Such an event occurred occasionally in Phoenix City, but this was the first time Heidi was attending one again after many many years.
It’s scary how things had changed a lot.
The last time Heidi was in this kind of gathering was during the time her Grandma was still alive.
Her Grandma, who had wanted to groom Heidi to be like her someday, would always drag her to such places even at a very young age.
“Ms. Olsen, this is the perfect time for you to mingle,” Isla said, pulling Heidi’s thoughts away from reminiscing the past memories. “All the great businessmen and women of Phoenix City are here, there’s no doubt we can make some allies.”
Heidi grabbed a glass of wine from a passing waiter, nodding. “I just need to find the perfect opportunity. Are you ready for our plan?”
The mischievous smile on Isla’s face told Heidi she was all ready.
“Ms. Olsen, you don’t know but I’m very good at spreading rumors. Don’t worry, very soon everyone inside this hall will know about your situation and the situation of the AG Group.”
“Do a good job.” Heidi winked at her, smiling mischievously as well.
“That, without a doubt,” Isla assured. ” In fact, I’ve hired some girls who are also inside this hall to help spread the rumors fast,” she leaned forward and whispered.
Heidi’s eyes followed Isla as she mingled with the crowd freely as if she’d done this countless times before.
From clicking glasses with random men, butting into lively chatters, and throwing out compliments to the haughty businesswomen, she managed to grab everyone’s attention in a very short time.
With that achieved, Heidi watched as she whispered some words to them acting confused like the crowd.
Very soon, the rumor about Harold Olsen’s dishonesty began spreading across the hall like wildfire.
“Wasn’t he the first young Master who took over the family’s business many years back?”
“Now he rules the company with his family. It is disturbing that he wants no one else to manage the business apart from his family members.”
“I have heard words about Harold Olsen which are disgusting. What is with giving that girl the position she deserves? This is an injustice I’ve never heard of.”
“It’s no wonder the AG Group keeps going down. With the amount of corruption going on inside, how can they not expect to lose the corporate battle?”
“I heard that girl did a good job by reviving one of the failing branches under the AG Group. Harold Olsen’s life revolves around his selfish whims, otherwise, he would think for the Group and not for himself.”
Heidi reveled in the whispers and gossip, leaning by a large table, twirling the wine in her glass with an upturned smile.
Steve approached her. “This is an unfavorable situation for you to drink wine.” He took the wine glass from her hand. “How about you don’t take any drink in this hall, Heidi?”
Surprised at his gesture, Heidi asked, Why not, Steve? I’m just having a sip.”
“Even a sip won’t do,” Steve defended gently.
Wasn’t he acting oddly? Everyone else was drinking in the hall, why couldn’t she?
“A lady as astounding as you is bound to attract enemies,” Steve said. “It is better to be safe, Heidi.”
Then he changed the topic,
“While you stand like a lonely girl in this corner, I can see you’re controlling everyone in this hall tonight. I never knew you were this smart.”
Heidi chuckled at his compliment. “It is just a simple psychological trick. If it doesn’t work, I’ve got more tricks up my sleeve.”
From the corners of her eyes, the familiar figure of a man was striding in their direction, his features stern and his eyes red with rage.
No doubt, Harold Olsen was also at the gala, and those who knew him pointed fingers at him.
“What the hell is the meaning of this, Heidi? I know you are behind the rumors spreading around!” Harold stood in front of her.
Heidi lifted her gaze, her eyelashes batting innocently, but on her lips was a mocking smile. “Uncle, what are you talking about?”
“You!” Harold pointed at her. “I am going to deal with you when you get home, Heidi. Because of you, I can’t stay in this party for long!”
“Bye-bye, Uncle,” Heidi waved with her fingers, purposely enraging the man further.
Harold Olsen looked like a volcano, ready to erupt.
