billion book
Chapter 1618
Chapter 1618 Chasing the Whitmans Out
"Mr. Whitman, whether your niece stays in detention isn't our concern-that depends on her crime's severity. As a member of the Chamber, are you unaware of the public backlash she's caused? Or do you not even check the news?
"Netizens are praying that the Whitman family will go bankrupt now and have told the Chamber to investigate this issue!" Edison sneered.
Edison's pointed remarks echoed through the room, causing those who had considered aligning with the Whitman family to hesitate.
Initially, with the Wray and Montclair families' downfall, the Whitman family seemed like the best option for future alliances. But Wynter's recent scandal had cast a dark shadow.
Allegations of serious economic misconduct were being whispered, implicating not just her but potentially the entire Chamber of Commerce.
The public outrage was fierce. Consumers especially couldn't tolerate hypocritical behavior-if someone wasn't genuinely virtuous, perhaps no one would mind. But to craft a pristine image and then exploit the common person? That was an unforgivable betrayal.
This move was a deliberate blow from Fredric, specifically aimed at Wynter. No one knew of this strategy of his, not even Lucas. However, one thing was clear there was no way he would let a mere business person pose a threat to his standing.
Edison, fully aware of Fredric's intentions, took advantage of the situation, exerting pressure on the Whitman family during the meeting. He knew he wasn't alone. Surely, other people positioned by Fredric were also present. As expected, following Edison's words, someone who usually went unnoticed in the Chamber took the opportunity to speak up.
"Mr. Whitman, the times have changed. Disregarding consumer trust makes everything harder these days. "Public opinion is a force we can't ignore, and our companies in the Chamber are feeling the impact. We need to make some adjustments to show the public we're serious about accountability."
"I agree. While we respect Mr. Gordon's legacy, we can't let these actions slide-it's a serious offense! Whether it's Wynter or the Whitman family, they should withdraw from the Chamber. Evidence against them is undeniable, and if we don't act now, we might all be implicated."
As voices rose in agreement, Stetson understood the implication. He tapped on the table to bring the meeting to order.
"Quiet, please. I understand everyone's concerns, but outright removal seems excessive. Things haven't settled yet, and both the Quinnell and Whitman families have been his Chamber's pillars. Acting hastily could leave a sour taste. I disagree with removing them.
"However, we can't ignore the public outcry, either. So, how about a compromise? Noah and Taylor, for now, you two will temporarily step back from Chamber affairs. Once things calm down online, you may resume your roles."
Noah, hearing this, had already realized the gravity of the situation. He quickly reached out and held Taylor back when he was about to throw a fit.
The biggest surprise, however, was for Edison. He had expected that Fredric had people positioned within the Chamber, but he hadn't anticipated that even Stetson would be among them.
Stetson, along with Cleo, had always been notoriously incorruptible and was known for his loyalty to the Quinnell family. With these two around, any plan to seize control of the Chamber would be challenging at best. Yet, it turned out Stetson was in Fredric's camp all along.
Edison had initially viewed Stetson as his primary obstacle. Now, it became clear that the Whitman family had no hope of remaining within the Chamber.
Edison's smile was the widest. "Then, let's go with Mr. Leftnon's suggestion."