Chapter 87: The Little Vixen Tina

Strong Gris had spent decades in this industry and had weathered several stock market crashes. His extensive experience and professional knowledge allowed him to judge William's words with a critical eye. Deep down, Gris had suspected the market's vulnerabilities but never dared to voice such thoughts as boldly as William.

Hearing William's analysis shattered his last remnants of hopeful denial. Rational reflection led him to believe in William's forecast of further market decline. The market had indeed lost its confidence.

Gris, momentarily dazed, slumped onto the sofa in the VIP room. However, his resilience soon resurfaced. As a seasoned banker, Gris had the mental fortitude to bounce back quickly.

Now that he understood the likely outcome, Gris began calculating his next moves. If William's predictions held true, the Swiss National Bank could exploit numerous opportunities in the next one to two years. Earning a few billion would be considered modest. Following William's strategy, the bank could potentially rake in tens of billions.

Beyond the money, this foresight could significantly enhance the bank's reputation and influence among clients and industry peers. For Gris personally, successfully navigating this crisis could catapult him to the bank's presidency, elevating his social standing and his family's stature in Switzerland.

After mulling over William's words, Gris's previous hunches before the crash now seemed validated. The euphoria of the market had clouded his judgment. Now, with a clear mind, he was thrilled. He stood up and shook William's hand gratefully.

"Thank you, Mr. Devonshire. Your insights have been immensely valuable. It's true what they say: everything follows a pattern if you know where to look. We've all been blinded by greed.

"William, withdrawing at this point is the wisest choice. It's a simple truth, but not everyone can grasp it.

"Greed is indeed the original sin. Only the money in your pocket truly belongs to you. In the future, if you need anything in Switzerland, you can always count on me. I'm more than happy to be at your service. Once again, thank you, Mr. Devonshire."

William looked at the old man in front of him, now rejuvenated and glowing with determination. He couldn't help but admire him. 'No wonder this man became the Vice President of the National Bank. He regained his composure and made decisive plans so quickly.'

"You're welcome, Mr. Gris. The opportunity is in your hands. This is all part of God's plan, leading you to seek my advice today. Good luck, Mr. Gris."

"Thank you. I feel like I've gained a new lease on life. I'm confident that I can lead the National Bank to greater heights and possibly achieve my dream of becoming its president. The Gris family name will resonate through the Swiss banking sector. You are my lucky star, my angel," Gris said, giving William a hearty hug and three firm pats on the back.

This gesture made William instantly understand that Gris's words were a pledge of confidentiality. He had ambitions and aspired to become the president of the National Bank. Disclosing secrets would ruin his chances, and his family's standing in Switzerland could be jeopardized.

"Thank you, Mr. Gris. I must thank you for your support. Without your help, I couldn't have secured a 3% margin rate at the National Bank. So, we are friends, Mr. Gris. Friends help each other," William said with a smile.

Gris beamed. "Exactly, William. We are friends. The Gris family will always be loyal friends to the Devonshire family. God is my witness. It's getting late, so I'll take my leave now. The board is waiting for my report. We'll talk again soon."

William escorted Gris to the door. They exchanged farewells, each silently reminding themselves not to get too carried away. William knew better than to completely trust bankers unless betrayal came with a hefty price.

After seeing Gris off, William turned to Phillips. "Thank you for all your help these past few months, Phillips. This is a personal bonus from me," he said, handing Phillips a check for $2 million.

Phillips looked at the check, his eyes wide with excitement. "Thank you, Mr. Devonshire. It's been an honor to serve you."

William patted Phillips on the shoulder, feeling satisfied that everything had wrapped up well.

At Zurich International Airport, William, accompanied by Sam, walked into the departure hall. With a heavy tone, he told Sam, "This is as far as you go, Sam."

"Understood, BOSS. Is there anything else you need?" Sam asked, handing William his luggage.

Taking the luggage, William thought for a moment before saying, "Send my regards to Brian and the others. After you drop Alexandra off in the US, your job is done. I'll call you if I need anything. Thank you for your help, Sam."

"Of course, boss. It's us who should be thanking you for giving us old guys a chance. We're always ready for your call. Goodbye, boss," Sam said gratefully.

William nodded. "Goodbye, Sam."

During the past month, William had called Alexandra many times, but she never answered. Unsettled, he had Brian and his team discreetly protect her in Brazil. According to Brian, Alexandra had been burying herself in work, traveling worldwide for modeling gigs. Her stubbornness was evident as she threw herself into a whirlwind of shows.

William didn't believe he needed to cater to her whims. Avoiding him just because he didn't follow her advice seemed excessive. If it weren't for her allowing Brian and the team to stay, William might have thought she was considering breaking up with him.

Silently coming and going without a word left William feeling a bit sad. 'Am I really this undesirable?' he mused.

William had chartered a private plane to fly directly to Oxford, England. He had been away for three months, and his mother, Lena, had called multiple times urging him to return. Now that the money was made, it was time to head back and see her. The castle renovation was complete, and Lena had been eagerly awaiting his return to move in together. She had been calling incessantly, unable to wait any longer.

Two hours later, the plane landed at a private airstrip in Oxford. As William disembarked, he saw a Rolls-Royce and two Land Rovers waiting. His mother, Lena, stood there with the young beauty Tina and Barney Christmas. Seeing them brightened William's mood instantly.

"Hey, William! Over here!" Tina spotted him and ran towards him, wrapping him in a tight hug, her head nuzzling his neck.

"William, I've missed you so much. Where have you been these past few months? You left me and Aunt Lena all alone. Don't you know how hard we've worked on the castle? Look, I've worn myself thin!" she complained, guiding his hand to her waist while keeping her arms wrapped around his neck like they were a couple.

Tina, only sixteen, was already adept at such tactics. William couldn't help but hold her gently. She felt surprisingly good in his arms, and he tightened his grip slightly.

Tina, noticing his firm hold, felt a surge of triumph. 'I refuse to believe that I, a beautiful young girl, am less appealing than that Brazilian model. William promised to marry me when we were kids. I'm his true love,' she thought, her eyes gleaming mischievously like a little fox.

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