You Looked Down on Me Once, Now You Look Up. novel Chapter 161

The Martin Group had built its success on technology. No matter how many changes Emerson made to the company, he never dared touch the tech division. That was Jason’s legacy—the foundation he’d built from nothing.

But Emerson’s background was in administration, not tech. When it came to that department, half the real power belonged to the department manager. The guy was a true genius, obsessed with research and development, but he wasn’t exactly great with people.

Emerson had his own issues with him, but he couldn’t deny the man’s talent. He’d even thought about replacing him a few times, but after searching everywhere, he just couldn’t find anyone who measured up.

Once, as a test, Emerson put the manager on unpaid leave for a while. The guy didn’t complain—he just grabbed his wife and kids and went on an overseas vacation, disappearing completely. In just two weeks, the company’s systems crashed so badly that the cybersecurity team had to get involved.

That’s when Emerson finally understood: some people really are impossible to replace.

Right now, Ruby was all about the new smart home division. On the market, there was only one tech giant doing something similar, but their products were ridiculously expensive. Martin Group’s approach was different—affordable, reliable smart home tech that anyone could use.

If they could pull this off, it would take the whole company to the next level.

As the end of the month got closer, Patricia’s team stayed quiet. Ruby, on the other hand, kept finding chances to throw in a few sarcastic comments.

Finally, on the 30th, it was time for the big product pitch.

Ruby stepped into the main conference room in a sleek black skirt suit, holding a presentation remote. She spoke confidently as she walked everyone through her 38-slide PowerPoint.

At the end, she couldn’t resist taking a jab at Patricia. “That’s the proposal from Team One. I’m curious—what does Team Two have to offer?”

Patricia, sitting off to the side, suddenly had all eyes on her. She didn’t get up. Instead, she glanced at Aurora.

Aurora stood and headed to the front.

Ruby looked annoyed. “Shouldn’t your manager be presenting?”

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