For instance, in the production of a product, the core components could have been sourced from a cost-effective supplier. However, the contract specifically designated a subsidiary under Thomson's company with inflated prices, under the pretext that their technology was more advanced and could ensure product quality. At the behest of Paul, the "Crook," the procurement and finance departments of the company did not scrutinize the matter further.
The marketing team, full of enthusiasm, believed this was a strategic decision to create a high-end product and actively prepared for the project's promotion, unaware that every piece of promotional material and every marketing event was quietly funneling company funds toward Thomson's side.
As the project progressed, funds flowed like water in the direction they had predetermined. Crook's company maintained a seemingly stable profit on paper, but the actual profit margin was gradually declining, while Thomson's company seized the opportunity to see its profits soar.
Looking at the growing numbers in his account, Paul's greed intensified. He said to Thomson, "Thomson, this business deal is raking in money fast, but to truly swallow Crook's wealth, we need to work on the shares. How's your plan coming along?"
Thomson put down his plan, leaned back on the sofa, and said confidently, "Relax, I've already found a few reliable people—small-time names in the business world who are desperate for cash. We can have them step in, under the guise of strategic investment, and slowly acquire Crook's shares. To the public, we'll say we're optimistic about the company's future and want to help it scale up and explore new fields."
Soon after, Thomson arranged several seemingly legitimate business meetings, inviting these so-called "investors" to meet with Crook's top executives.
At the meetings, Paul was eloquent, painting a rosy picture of the company's prospects. He presented carefully fabricated market research reports and future profit forecasts, convincing the executives that bringing in these new investors was a golden opportunity for the company to soar.
The finance director raised some concerns during the review process, such as the questionable sources of the investors' funds and their demands for a suspiciously high share percentage. But Paul dismissed him with an authoritative tone:
"Director, our company is at a critical stage of development. We need significant capital to seize market opportunities. These investors are coming with sincerity and resources. The shares they take now will bring us exponential returns in the future. You need to think long-term."
Under Paul's pressure and persuasion, the finance director reluctantly signed off on the share transfer agreement.
Thus, Crook's shares began to trickle into the hands of individuals controlled by Thomson, and the company's control gradually shifted toward Paul and Thomson.
At the same time, they manipulated the company's internal management.
Using his assumed identity, Paul gradually replaced key personnel with his loyalists, who followed only his and Thomson's orders. This ensured that all company decisions aligned with their wishes. Even if a few employees raised doubts, they were quickly silenced, unable to stir any trouble.
To outsiders, the company's business dealings and share changes appeared as normal commercial operations and capital restructuring. Industry peers even praised Crook's "bold reforms," believing they were innovative and ambitious, poised to achieve new heights in the industry.
At an industry gala, a rival company's boss jokingly said to Paul:
"Crook, your company's recent moves are impressive. Looks like you're gearing up for something big. We should exchange notes and learn from each other in the future!"
Paul smirked inwardly but put on a humble face, replying, "Oh, we're just feeling our way forward. We'll need everyone's support."
As time passed, Paul and Thomson successfully transferred most of Crook's wealth into their control—whether it was cash flow, fixed assets, or intangible brand value and business resources, they held it all firmly in their grasp.
Looking at the empire before him, Paul could almost see a life of luxury awaiting. He excitedly said to Thomson:
"Thomson, we've done it! No one can stop us from enjoying this wealth now. Thinking back to those days of fear and caution, we've finally made it."
Thomson, equally smug, patted Paul's shoulder and said:
"Yep, but we still need to be careful. No one suspects us yet, but you never know when something might go wrong. We've got to keep things tight and maintain the status quo."
Back at the villa, Bess, Ava, and Lily remained in the dark. They saw Paul bustling about at the company and assumed he was working hard for the family and the business, showering him with even more care and affection.
Bess would gently hand Paul a cup of hot tea when he came home, smiling as she said, "Darling, you've been working so hard lately. No matter how busy the company gets, take care of yourself."
Each time Paul faced such concern, a fleeting pang of guilt would cross his heart, but it was quickly drowned out by greed and pride. He'd smile and reply, "Sweetheart, it's all worth it for our future."
Paul began frequenting high-end venues, buying luxury cars and watches, living a life of extravagance.
After purchasing a limited-edition sports car, he drove to Thomson's office, picked him up, and headed to a private club in the suburbs for a night of indulgence.
Thomson eyed the sleek new car and teased, "Crook, you're living the high life now, huh? This car's got a vibe. Our tough days are officially behind us."
Paul laughed heartily, floored the accelerator, and the car shot forward like an arrow. He shouted, "Thomson, this is just the beginning! We've got endless money to spend however we want, and no one can stop us."
They sped along to the opulent private club, where staff greeted them respectfully, ushering them into the most luxurious suite. Rare wines and gourmet dishes flowed endlessly.
Life seemed to go on calmly, with Paul and Thomson continuing to manipulate Crook's company for their gain.
They devised new projects under the banner of expanding into overseas markets, planning to transfer the company's remaining high-quality assets abroad, turning the company into their personal cash machine.
In the company's boardroom, Paul addressed the executives with fervor, outlining the new project plan:
"Everyone, this overseas project is a golden opportunity for our company. If we succeed, we'll establish a foothold in the global market and become an industry leader. Yes, the initial investment is significant, but the returns will be immeasurable. Let's work together to make this a success!"
The executives, swayed by Paul's grand vision, nodded in agreement, captivated by the alluring prospects, unaware that this was yet another trap set by Paul and Thomson.