Hired a Gigolo, Got a Billionaire

Chapter 438 Marcus' POV The communal dinner was being served in the main pavilion, an impressive structure of wood and glass that offered a panoramic view of the mountains. The three companies had been strategically seated at separate tables, close enough that we could discreetly observe our competitors. The Ross team seemed to be made up mostly of younger employees, full of energy and clearly excited about the competition. They laughed loudly, gestured a lot, and looked genuinely enthusiastic about the weekend ahead. A modern winery, probably focused on innovation and digital marketing.

The Montgomery table, on the other hand, was completely different. The group looked more formal, and there was a palpable tension among them. Some faces seemed familiar, likely long-time employees who had survived the change in leadership. Others were clearly new, still trying to find their place within the team's dynamic. "It's strange seeing them here," Christian murmured, following my gaze. "After everything that happened." "Impressive how quickly they bounced back," I replied, taking a sip of the local wine being served. "A few months ago they were in total crisis, and now they look...

stable." "New money," Zoey observed, though her voice still carried tension from the earlier argument. "Someone must have made a serious investment." "But who would invest in a company with such a damaged reputation?" Madeline asked, clearly trying to make sense of it. "It doesn't seem like a smart move." "Maybe it was cheap enough to be worth the risk," Luke suggested, methodically cutting a piece of lamb. "Or someone saw potential in the traditional brand despite the recent problems." "It must have been a very attractive price," I agreed.

"A winery with the Montgomery history, even with the scandals, still has market value." "Especially if the buyer has the patience to rebuild the reputation," Christian added. "Could be a long-term strategy." "Or someone experienced in corporate restructuring," Madeline suggested. "There are investors who specialize in that, right?" "There are, 11 I confirmed. "Funds that buy distressed companies, clean them up, and resell them for profit." "Either way," Christian said, glancing discreetly toward their table, "whoever it is worked fast.

for a company that was practically bankrupt just a few months ago." The rest of the dinner unfolded with lighter conversation about the upcoming activities, the quality of the food, and comments on the spectacular mountain views. Still, I noticed that all of us occasionally cast curious glances toward the Montgomery table,

stage, wireless microphone in hand. "Good evening, everyone!" The organizer's voice echoed through the

leadership, and innovation." More applause, and I noticed all three teams looked genuinely interested. "Over the next few days, you'll take part in activities that will challenge not only your physical abilities, but also your capacity to

rising. "Representing the innovative Ross Winery, we have CEO Julius Ross!" A man in his early thirties, modern and energetic, stood up from the table near ours, waving confidently

had decided it was best for me to represent Kensington at this event. As COO of the Valentian division, and considering all the recent scandals tied to my name, he believed the local team needed visible leadership. Someone close. Someone