The group’s global CEO, Alexandre Rivas, entered accompanied by several members of the international board. His presence was unexpected; no one anticipated that he would come from New York solely for this celebration.
Laurent stiffened in surprise, then immediately adopted his professional smile.
— Mr. Rivas! What an honor to welcome you.
Everyone stood up. I remained with my back turned, arranging glasses on a table.
I felt footsteps approaching.
« I was looking for someone in particular, » said Rivas.
Laurent seemed disconcerted.
— Someone? Who?
Rivas did not reply. He walked straight towards me.
The entire room fell silent.
I turned around slowly.
Our eyes met, and he smiled with genuine respect.
Then, before the astonished eyes of more than a hundred guests, the group’s managing director bowed slightly and declared in a clear voice:
— Good evening, Madam President. We are happy to see you finally back.
The sound of a cup shattering on the floor was the only sound that followed.
Camille remained frozen. Laurent turned pale.
Murmurs began to spread through the room.
— President?
— What did he say?
— Who is she?
Laurent approached, incredulous.
— There must be some mistake… it’s my wife… well… a housewife…
Rivas looked at him with a mixture of surprise and disapproval.
— Housewife? he repeated. Mr. Dubois, allow me to formally introduce you to the majority owner and president and CEO of Horizon Global Holdings.
The silence became heavy.
Read more by clicking the (NEXT »») button below!
