The whispers circulating outside all traced back to the Hampton family. Even the incident involving Vicki's alleged assault on Nicole had been spun into a narrative, portraying Nicole as a relentless suitor who publicly challenged Vicki, providing a convenient justification. Vicki, overwhelmed, finally made her escape.

Alec couldn't suppress a laugh at the absurdity of the rumors. It appeared that Wayne was resolute in pulling the Schultz Group down alongside him.

While Alec had never harbored animosity toward Vicki, he had never held a particular fondness for her either.

Initially, Alec believed partnering with the Hampton family was advantageous, given their perceived influence. However, witnessing their actions now, it seemed that abstaining from an alliance was a fortuitous decision. Considering the Hampton family's cunning, aligning with them would Likely yield disloyalty and trouble for the Schultz Group in the future.

Alec cleared his throat, halting the employees’ conversation with a firm, low voice. “Return to your tasks. Anyone caught gossiping will face termination."

Fixing his gaze on the dissenting employee, Alec delivered a frigid remark. "The Schultz Group doesn't coerce loyalty. If you wish to depart, do so now. Let's see if anyone obstructs your exit."

The employees fell into a hush, refraining from uttering a word out of caution.

Given the Schultz Group's superior benefits within the industry, securing a commendable position in this economic climate posed a formidable challenge.

Under normal circumstances, Alec would have handled individuals harboring hidden agendas, but his current time constraints demanded undivided attention on the Hampton family affair.

Alec entered Jarrod's office, finding him engrossed in work, his countenance grave and concentrated.

"Sir, Wayne's been dispatched, yet his persistence remains formidable. Moreover, the rumors circulating originate from the Hampton family."

Alec reported.

“Alright,” Jarrod replied without diverting his gaze from the computer screen.

Alec lingered, torn between voicing his thoughts and remaining silent.

Unable to suppress his curiosity any longer, Alec ventured, “Shall we simply allow the rumors to proliferate?"

“Have you devised a superior strategy then?" Jarrod raised an eyebrow.

"They're not disseminating accurate information! This tarnishes our company's reputation, and it's eroding the confidence of our employees..." Alec lamented.

“This presents an opportunity," Jarrod stated calmly.

Perplexed, Alec inquired, “What do you mean?"

Jarrod's gaze shifted from the monitor as his slender fingers rhythmically tapped the desk. "We can seize this moment to purge our internal ranks, eliminating any ties to the Hampton family."