At those words, Ashley's taut nerves suddenly relaxed. A relieved smile appeared on her face, and she hurriedly nodded solemnly in response.
"Yes, Mr. Edgar! I'll study hard, adapt to the position as quickly as possible, and do all my work well."
Edgar nodded slightly, calmly drew an exquisite slip of paper from inside his jacket, and held it out to Ashley.
Full of puzzlement, Ashley reached out to take it and slowly unfolded it. The instant she saw its contents, her pupils contracted and her breath caught.
It was a check!
There were seven neatly lined-up zeros after the first digit-a full ten million dollars!
"The Department of Defense invests over forty billion dollars in dedicated funding in Vought every year. This bonus was originally Madelyn's."
Edgar spoke flatly, as though casually mentioning something utterly insignificant.
"Unfortunately, she left partway through, and someone needs to take over the subsequent liaison and coordination work. From today onward, this money is yours."
Ashley's breathing instantly quickened, and towering waves surged through her heart.
Was this what being Vought's Vice President was worth?
She had only just taken over the position, and on her very first official day, she had received a staggering ten million dollars.
She knew that if Madelyn were still in the position, the resources and compensation available to her would only have been greater.
Receiving a reward without having done anything to earn it was already an extraordinary privilege.
"Mr. Edgar, I... I really don't know what to say."
Ashley's voice trembled with excitement, filled with flustered gratitude.
Edgar remained utterly composed. In his eyes, ten million dollars seemed no more than a mere thousand dollars in spare change, hardly worth mentioning.
"You deserve it. No need to be so reserved. A simple thank-you will do."
"Thank you!