Devil's Prisoner of Love by Prefer

Aurora met his gaze directly and answered without hesitation, "Of course. Didn't you say your credentials were impressive? But when I looked at the company's recent records, it seems you've lost several major orders."

The documents attached to each individual's profile had caught her attention. Mr. Elderstone had assumed that in such a short time, it would be impressive enough for her to remember everyone's names, let alone review additional materials. Yet, Aurora had done just that.

The recent lost orders were a sore spot for Mio. They were supposed to be secure deals-practically his for the taking. But inexplicably, they had slipped away. Two of them, in particular, had been with long-time clients. Despite verbal agreements, the clients had backed out at the last minute and signed with another company instead.

This wasn't an isolated case. Even a company they'd partnered with for years, which had been set for a renewal, had suddenly refused to renew their contract. Mio had gone to finalize the paperwork, only to be told outright that they were taking their business elsewhere.

Though Tina was no longer with the company, Mio had always believed his abilities were at least on par with hers. Yet, these repeated losses made it clear that others didn't share his confidence.

Frustrated and unable to vent his anger, he was further aggravated by Aurora's sudden return. Her pointed remarks now only worsened his mood, and his forced smile faltered.

"You've certainly come prepared," Mio said, his tone strained. "But wins and losses are part of the game. Sometimes losing an order is completely normal, just as I've deliberately taken orders from others before. Business is a battlefield, and everyone fights to win. There's nothing unusual about that."

Aurora seemed to have anticipated this response. She pressed on, "Stealing orders might be normal, but I also noticed that several of the company's long-standing clients have refused to renew their contracts and have switched to other companies. When my mother was in charge, none of this ever happened. But now, under your management, not only are orders being stolen, but even renewals are falling through. Don't you think you should reflect on where the problem lies? Or could it be that you're simply not as capable as you claim?"

Her words struck deep. Many of those present were unaware of these incidents. Mio, of course, hadn't gone around broadcasting his failures. But now, with Aurora exposing him, skeptical glances began to turn his way.

is what Miss Aurora said true? Did

for concern. Losing orders is commonplace. I'll secure even bigger deals in the future," Mio replied,

losing orders is commonplace for you? It seems you've never even considered whose fault it is," Aurora retorted sharply. "Doesn't it make more sense to be worried about leaving the company in his hands? I looked into it-those lost orders could have brought us billions in profit. Billions, lost just like that, and he calls it

words sparked murmurs among the crowd. Even those who had previously supported Mio began to waver. After all, the lost revenue directly

Mio said, his pride wounded. "What gives you the right to question my abilities? My

necessary to achieve his goals. Recognition of his capabilities was his

anger flare on his face, Aurora smiled and continued, "You're talking about the past? Back then, you were only the vice president. My mother was the chairperson. Frankly, I suspect many of those orders you claim as your achievements were secured because of her influence. Now that she's ill and the company is in your hands, your true capabilities-or lack thereof-are showing. People were worried about the company being handed to me, but isn't it just as

that his anger was playing into

waiting for you! "This time, I'll admit responsibility for the losses," he continued. "But you can't erase

masked their hostility was gone. This was exactly the outcome Aurora had been aiming for-Mio had lost his composure. She responded with a calm smile, "I won't deny that experience matters. But as a leader, there's something else that's just as important." She tapped her temple lightly. "A sharp mind is key to getting things done. Since you look down on me and I question your abilities, why don't we settle this with a fair competition? Let's give everyone here a chance to see who's truly capable. If you win, I'll agree to Mr. Grant's proposal and let you temporarily take the position as head of the family. But if I win, you'll relinquish all control of

we competing on?" Mio

multimillion-dollar order. Whoever secures it and signs

repeat itself. I accept the challenge. Since everyone is here, why not

lost his cool, but Mr. Grant hadn't. What if this was a trap laid by Mr.

condition to add,"

"Please, go ahead."