Moreover, while Jack had invested in many projects, most of them were profitable. There were only a few insignificant losses in comparison to the profits made.
“Alright, I understand.”
Jack replied embarrassedly when he heard the displeasure in Jasper’s tone.
Jasper sighed. “Most results aren’t caused by a single reason or person, Jack. Both you and I have our own shortcomings, and it isn’t too late for us to adjust with this opportunity.
“Don’t think too much about this. I’m well aware of how capable you are. And now that you’ve been given a platform where you can go all out and excel, I’m sure you’ll do great.”
Despite being a man in his 40s, Jack still felt his heart thrum in his chest at the words and replied sincerely, “Don’t worry, Mr. Laine. I’ll do my part well.”
Once he returned to the hotel, Jasper was met with a surprised, though expected, ‘guest’. Ian Hull.
In the same rooftop bar, Ian sat facing the river and raised his wine glass at Jasper who was walking over. He smiled sinisterly and began, “This was where you sat when you threatened me, huh, Jasper?”
Jasper plopped down on the seat opposite Ian and replied, “Threatened? I don’t think I understand what you’re saying. How could you accuse me of threatening when all I did was speak the truth?
“Though I must say that I’m impressed, Mr. Hull. You managed to find me so quickly. I suppose your roots run deep here in Waterhoof City after doing business here for so long.”
Ian scoffed. “The Southeast Province is your territory, so I accept my defeat. But this time, you’re handing yourself over to Waterhoof City on a silver platter!”
Jasper shrugged calmly. “And you’re so certain that you’ll manage to devour everything I have?”
Ian guffawed. “You must’ve received news already, hmm? Let me tell you, I’m not the one attacking you this time. It’s the better half of the Haddock Chamber of Commerce that wants to get rid of you and your sly old man!
“Dawson should already feel the pressure by now. Did he tell you that he’s facing more than just competition from other supermarkets? Most of his customers are also buying expired goods and products without a manufacturing date, qualification certificate, and manufacturing company stated. They’re all complaining now.
“And your investment company too. You’ll receive the news very soon of someone reporting your investment company using investment as a guise when you’re actually using it to evade taxes. You’ll be investigated immediately!”
Seeing Ian’s proud and arrogant face before his eyes, Jasper replied calmly, “Schuler Supermarkets always abides by the industry regulations when it comes to the products they sell. There’s no way there would be expired goods or products without a manufacturing date, qualification certificate, and manufacturing company stated.
“As for my investment company, well that’s even more simple. Every Somer Dollar I own has its tax paid for.
“I’ve done nothing wrong, so there’s nothing I need to be afraid of. You can’t possibly think that this is all it’ll take to deal with me, can you?”
Ian scoffed. The smile still stayed on his face, but his gaze grew cold. “Are you actually stupid or are you just pretending to be stupid? Just because you didn’t do it doesn’t mean you don’t have to take responsibility here.
“After the investigations, even if the supermarkets are found to be following industry regulations and your investment company is proven not to be evading taxes, what would other people think?
“Reputation isn’t easy to build up, but it’ll only take a few days for everything to come crashing down.”
Ian tilted his head to take a sip of red wine and spoke leisurely, “I don’t need to use these tricks to end the both of you. Customers just need to know that Schuler Supermarkets have been investigated before for selling goods against industry regulations.
“And entrepreneurs seeking investments just need to know that your company has been investigated for using investment as a guise to evade taxes.
“These two rumors are enough to completely destroy your business credit.”
Ian leaned over to stare at Jasper as he spoke and smiled wretchedly, “So what if I’m blatantly framing you? What’re you going to do about it?”
