Bad Guy My Boss (ENG)

Chapter 17

Theeranai continued to look at his cousin and former close assistant, Mark, with the same jealousy that had eaten away at his heart his entire life. Why? Why does someone like Vee get all the good things? The people around him were all top notch. Over half of the employees came from prestigious universities, and many were top of their class or honor students.

Look at Mark. He was so skilled and dedicated that everyone in the construction industry knew their reputation. Mark did not act like a normal salaried employee. He behaved as if the Burton Group was his family, his home, which he had to protect and cherish with the utmost dedication. Mark was smart in positioning himself. He maintained good relationships with all the companies, from partners to competitors. If Vee was adept at playing the role of a shrewd businessman, Mark would play the opposite role, adding multiple dimensions to negotiations. His counterpart would soften Vee's rough edges. When Vee was tough, Mark would sweeten the bitterness, doling out pleasure bit by bit until the other side thought they were benefiting, even if they were actually gaining nothing. Many companies were said to have approached Mark with better offers, but he didn't leave. He continued to work as if he were a devoted slave to the Burton Group. Until earlier this month, when Mark abruptly quit Vee, Theeranai felt a sense of satisfaction that Mark was finally gone. But it seemed like he had celebrated too soon. Mark not only didn't run away from Vee, but it also seemed like his bonds had grown even stronger.

Damn!

The more he thought about it, the more his jealousy grew, filling his chest. Even though he didn't particularly care for Mark, he still wanted him close. How good would it be to have someone who could satisfy him both at work and in bed? Even if Mark tried to distance himself, that didn't mean he'd let Vee have it all. If he couldn't have it, then no one else could, especially him.

"This time, I'll make sure you fall that low. If I can't do that, don't call me Theeranai." He cursed under his breath, gritting his teeth, unable to suppress his vengeful feelings. He was willing to do anything, no matter how vile the method, just to crush Vee. Theeranai took a large swig from the glass in his hand, letting the strong alcohol douse the fire in his chest until one of the project executives greeted him. The angry man dropped his demeanor and smiled.

"How are you, Mr. Theeranai? It's been a while since we last saw each other." Said the slightly overweight man in his early fifties, patting the younger man on the shoulder.

"Hello, Mr. Wichen," Theeranai greeted with a respectful wai, hiding his shrewd fox eyes.

"I'm fine, thank you. I hear you've been busy working in Myanmar. How are you doing?"

"There were some minor issues with the locals, but we managed to handle them. By the way, I heard about the XXX Island Complex project that you managed to... snatch from the Burton Group. That's impressive." Wichen said with a knowing smile.

Theeranai smiled widely, proud of his accomplishments, which had brought him money, work, and satisfaction he hadn't felt in years. He would have to realize that not everything is easy. In the past, he didn't have enough capital to bid on big projects, but now everything has changed since Lodge arrived. What seemed impossible became as easy as waving a hand.

"It's no big deal. I just had a good partner and the right time."

"Lodge Industries' investment in Thailand has really shaken up the industry, huh?" His conversation partner joked.

"It's no big deal, Mr. Wichen. It's just one project."

"But that project is quite important. I heard it includes several systems within the complex."

"Yes, Lodge specializes in systems work. Besides, Mr. Lodge wouldn't allow himself to be outdone by the Burton Group."

"The Burton Group must be feeling the pressure now, especially now that their star player is gone. I can't believe I let him go. Excuse me, I need to speak to Mr. Wisanu."