Chapter 278

"So you started without me, didn't you?" Clifford said calmly. "Then please, continue. Where were we? The vote? In that case, as a shareholder, my vote should count as well, shouldn't it?"

Wallace retorted, "Didn't you resign? We are currently holding a meeting to elect a new CEO. Since you're here, you might as well give your farewell speech."

His words were a clear declaration of the outcome.

"Besides, the vote is already over. Even with your vote, the result is seven to six."

Clifford was silent for a moment, then let out a soft laugh.

Everyone thought he had gone mad, to be able to laugh at a time like this.

Clifford raised a hand and gestured to Ziven behind him. Understanding immediately, Ziven brought over a file.

Clifford tossed the file onto the table. "In that case, I suppose it's time I exercised my own power. According to the bylaws, a shareholder with over 34% possesses veto power. Apologies, but I happen to hold exactly 35%. Therefore, I declare your vote invalid."

The statement made several people, especially Wallace, jump to their feet.

"You... how is that possible?" Wallace snatched the file, his eyes scanning it in disbelief.

Wallace had once held 50% of the shares, but he'd distributed them himself. Renata and Clifford alone held 30%, and he had given another 3% to Polly. That left him with only 17%. Even after reclaiming Yolanda's shares, he was only at 27%! That was precisely why he had called this meeting instead of just appointing a new CEO himself.

He had only himself to blame for his cleverness. He had assumed that even after dividing the shares, he would remain the largest

shareholder, and with Yolande net

portion essentially his to reclaim at any time, he felt secure. He needed an heir, and Clifford's capabilities had impressed him, leading to the decision to divide the shares. But by the time he realized the danger, it was too late.

Wallace could count on his fingers and toes and still not figure out where Clifford had acquired so many shares. Even with Renata's and Polly's combined, he would only have 24%. Where did the other 11% come from? All the shareholders were sitting right here!

"Could it be you..."

A knowing smile touched Clifford's lips. "You can think about that later. Right now, we need to solve the company's problems."

"Since we're on the topic of elections, and as you mentioned, I did previously offer my resignation I believe that given Wallace's recent contributions to the company, his current shareholdings, and corporate regulations, he is no Tonger qualified to serve as

chairman. The bylaws state that the individual with the largest share percentage shall serve as chairman. The answer to who that should be is

now self-evident."

"How dare you, Clifford!" Wallace slammed his hand on the table, knocking a bottle

of water to the floor.

Clifford continued coolly, "Oh, and

one more thing. According to

company regulations, any attempt to manipulate corporate decisions by influencing shareholder votes or interfering with company operations is a serious violation of board rules warranting removal from one's position and expulsion from the board of directors. For the sake of fairness, let's put it to a vote."

Leaning one hand on the table, Clifford raised the other slightly. "All in favor of removing Wallace from his position and the board of directors, please raise your hands."

Wallace's face twitched with rage. 'Violation of board rules'-what a load of nonsense! This was just an excuse. He was dead set on kicking his own father out of the company!