CEO's Contract Obsession-Chapter 254: Free Coffee (1)

The entrance of Bellory Cafe was a scene of chaos, with cameras flashing, reporters’ voices echoing, and Welsh security personnel, making it unsuitable to accommodate any customers currently.

Amy was heartbroken by the unfortunate outcome of the launch, especially considering how well things were progressing earlier. Despite being married to Henry, she understood that his huge investment in her company meant she had to ensure it generated profits.

The sheer intensity of the unfolding events left her feeling utterly overwhelmed. Unaccustomed to being the center of so much attention and confronted by a sizeable crowd that seemed to press in on her, she felt as though she was being subjected to a form of attack.

The experience left her feeling harassed, powerless, and with the impression that everyone was eagerly anticipating her eventual collapse.

In search of refuge, she made her way to the manager’s office tucked away in the kitchen. As soon as she shut the door behind her, tears streamed down her face. Her chest tightened, making it hard to catch her breath, intensifying her emotional distress.

All she yearned for was a simple, ordinary life — to run Bellory, earn money for her family, and create job opportunities for others. Yet, she couldn’t understand why life seemed to be relentless in its challenges, despite her genuine intentions. Why were the reporters fixated on tarnishing Henry’s image instead of directing their focus toward the true criminals who had attempted to harm and endanger them?

She couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of injustice. Life seemed to consistently treat her unfairly, despite her consistent efforts to avoid causing harm to anyone. The suffering she experienced felt like an undeserved punishment.

Concerned for her friend, Mary realized that Amy was nowhere to be found. As Rei and Henry engaged in a discussion about their next course of action, Mary immediately head to search for Amy. The size of the cafe worked in her favor, and it didn’t take long for Mary to discover her best friend in tears, seeking comfort in the manager’s office.

"Oh, babe, come here," Mary tenderly pulled Amy into a comforting embrace. Amy clung tightly to her friend, as her cries grew louder and her emotions poured out.

"Cry it all out, Amy. It’s okay," Mary soothingly encouraged her friend, reminiscing on the countless times she had been there to support Amy through her past struggles, including the heartbreaking loss of her family.

Mary understood that crying didn’t signify weakness but rather a necessary release of emotions. She knew her best friend’s toughness and was confident that Amy would eventually find the strength to rise again.

Through her sobs, Amy expressed her deep remorse to Mary. "I’m truly sorry, Mary. I feel like I ruined the entire launch day. You and everyone else put in so much effort, and I blame myself. Maybe I should have stayed home or remained in my office instead of attending."

"Hush now, don’t say that," Mary consoled her friend, gently shushing her. "You worked just as hard as the rest of us, Amy. And remember, this is not your fault. It’s those greedy reporters who are to blame. They were so obsessed with finding a sensational story that they resorted to spreading damaging rumors."

As Amy wiped away her tears, she expressed her belief to Mary. "I think we should answer their questions to clear our name and to let people hear our side. What do you think?"

"Hmm, I find the idea appealing, but we should consult your husband and Rei first," Mary suggested, considering the expertise of both individuals in handling media affairs. "They are the experts in this area. Additionally, I’m certain they will consult with the company’s lawyers and PR team to make sound decisions."

"I guess you are right, but how can we save this day of the reporters are not going away?" Amy asked.

"Stay right here. I have an idea," Mary quickly went out of the room, leaving Amy behind as she hurriedly made her way to seek Rei’s help.

During her alone time in the manager’s office, Amy took the opportunity to compose herself. She carefully fixed her appearance, touching up her makeup to conceal any traces of tears, ensuring that her face portrayed a composed look as if she had not shed a single tear.

After a while, Mary returned to Amy with a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "Amy, I have good news," she exclaimed. "Henry and your lawyers have decided to hold a press conference tomorrow. As part of the agreement, the reporters will leave us alone until then. We’ll have some break until the conference takes place."

"Okay, but let me handle one more thing," Amy asserted, her determination shining through. She swiftly left the manager’s office, bypassing Henry and Rei, and headed directly towards the entrance of Bellory. Without hesitation, she stepped out of the cafe to directly face the cluster of reporters who were huddled outside, waiting eagerly for a story.

"Everyone, please listen! Can I have your attention, please?" Amy called out, her voice projecting with authority and determination. The reporters turned their focus towards her, intrigued by her assertive presence, and gathered around, forming a semi-circle in front of her.

Upon hearing Amy’s commanding voice and sensing the gathering crowd, Henry, Rei, and the rest of the Bellory staff swiftly made their way outside to see what was transpiring.

"I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for being here today, witnessing our launch. I am aware that many of you have questions, and I appreciate your concern. In order to provide you with accurate information and address your concerns, my husband has decided that we will hold a press conference tomorrow.

This will give us the opportunity to shed light on the situation and provide the clarity you are looking for. And I sincerely hope that each and every one of you will be present at the press conference as well.

It is my earnest wish that tomorrow, we can showcase our perspective to the world. But for now, how about I treat all of you to some Bellory coffee?" Amy proposed, a warm smile gracing her face. As she had anticipated, the media erupted in cheers upon hearing that they would receive complimentary coffee from none other than the CEO of Bellory herself.

Despite the nervousness residing within her, Amy greeted everyone with a heartfelt smile. Almost miraculously, the media instinctively formed a line in front of her, without any instruction needed. They stood in an orderly queue, reminiscent of obedient students, patiently waiting for their turn. Amy’s smile widened as she began serving them, grateful for this unexpected display of cooperation.

"Thank you all so much! I kindly ask you to help spread the word about Bellory Cafe," Amy expressed her gratitude to the gathered crowd. With a wave of farewell, she turned around to address her staff, instructing them on how to prepare the coffee for the awaiting media. Amy knew that these small gestures could make a significant impact in promoting her cafe’s reputation.

Once again, the media erupted into a chorus of cheers, their excitement building as they eagerly anticipated the complimentary offering. The prospect of receiving a freebie from Bellory Cafe elicited a sense of joy and enthusiasm among them, creating a lively and upbeat atmosphere.

As Amy made her way back into the cafe, Henry approached her, planting a quick kiss on her lips before enveloping her in a warm embrace. "That was absolutely incredible, my love," Henry expressed with pride. "I’m immensely proud of how you handled the situation. Who would have thought that a simple offering of coffee would make everyone shut up and obediently comply?" he added, playfully jesting about the unexpected effect their gesture had on the media.

"Perhaps you’re right!" Amy chuckled, sharing in the lighthearted moment with Henry. "Maybe they were just in dire need of a good cup of free coffee to perk them up. It’s amazing how a simple gesture can transform the atmosphere, isn’t it?" Her laughter and Henry’s playful banter helped dissipate the earlier tension, bringing a sense of lightness and brightness to the surroundings.

"My love, it’s time for you to return to work," Amy gently reminded Henry, her voice filled with affection and practicality. "You still have tasks to attend to at the site, while I have a crowd of press people eagerly awaiting their coffee." Amy recognized the importance of each of their roles and encouraged Henry to resume his responsibilities while she took care of serving the media.

"Alright, my love. I trust that you have everything under control," Henry assured Amy, his confidence evident in his words. "Furthermore, I’ll inform the security team to promptly remove anyone who attempts to cause trouble."

With that, Henry made his way back to his office, leaving Amy to manage the situation at the cafe while he ensured the safety and smooth operation of their establishment.