As tensions rose, every eye turned to Jimmy, anxious that he might not stand united with the group at this crucial moment.


    Jimmy was well aware of Knight’s implications. If he weren’t still under Charlie’s influence, he would have undoubtedly taken this chance to eliminate any risk and would have distanced himself from this group entirely.


    However, the circumstances had changed. Knight remained unaware of Jimmy’s true intentions. He aimed to leave ten people behind to work with Charlie, offering them sries while doing so. This was a prime opportunity for Jimmy to carve out a personal identity, and he knew he had to seize it.


    With a cold gaze fixed on Knight, he stated, “By setting a trap for us, you’ve essentially acknowledged that we, the workers, are part of the same collective. Now, you want me to separate myself from that group. Where does that leave me?”


    Knight quickly responded, “You are now a member of the board of directors! You are fundamentally different from them!”<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    Jimmy shook his head, replying, “I haven’t epted your stock options, so technically, I’m not part of your board.”


    Then, addressing everyone, Jimmy dered, “In this matter, I stand with all of you!”


    His words ignited cheers and apuse from the crowd.


    Before this moment, many had harbored frustrations towards Jimmy. His numerous ws, particrly his stinginess and greed, had been particrly off-putting. Coborating with him had felt burdensome, as he often exploited others and treated them like fools.


    Yet, in this instant, he radiated a sense of humanity that one wouldn’t expect from him. His ability to show such broad-mindedness and a sense of duty regarding this significant issue caused all resentment towards him to evaporate immediately.


    Jimmy was surprised by how satisfying it felt to y the role of a principled individual.


    Noticing Jimmy’s performance, Steve leaned towards Charlie and whispered, “Mr. Wade, with Jimmy and Knight at odds, how will this end?”


    Charlie smiled and replied, “You’ll be the one to finalize this. Jimmy is starting toy the groundwork for his future. He knows he’ll be in China for the long haul and wants to lead these ten colleagues, so he’s working to establish his authority.”


    Charlie continued, “However, he’s merely putting on a show for now. Without your backing, Knight won’t take him seriously. If you support him, the dynamic will change; Knight will think twice before challenging him.”


    Steve nodded and asked, “Should I just back him outright to resolve this?”


    Charlie chuckled, “Don’t be too direct. Remember, we’re on Chinese territory; everything needs to be bnced.”


    Steve looked surprised, “Are you suggesting a harmony of yin and yang?”<fn42d2> Chapters first released on find?novel</fn42d2>


    “Exactly!” Charlie affirmed. “Sometimes, opposites don’t have to be at odds; they can coexist without one needing to defeat the other. For us, it’s often like the interaction between ice water and hot water. If managed properly, they can blend into warm water, which is much more pleasant to consume.”


    “In our culture, we usually avoid burning bridges. I believe you would be better suited as a mediator in this situation. Allow the tension to simmer, and when the moment is right, use your position to provide both parties a way out. This maneuver will allow Knight to save some face while losing a little financially, and for the others, it will mean losing face but gaining some benefits. This way, you can ensure Knight won’t leverage their vulnerabilities against them while also ensuring his willingness topensate them.”