Page 27 of Captured By the Bratva

“In conclusion,” I say, “I am fully committed to leading this company with the same passion and dedication that my father did. I ask for your trust and support as we move forward together.”

I sit down, my heart still pounding, but a sense of accomplishment washes over me. I’ve done my part, laid out my vision, and now it’s up to the shareholders to decide.

Uncle Joe stands to make his presentation, and I force myself to listen, even though every word feels like a challenge. He’s smooth, confident, and clearly has his own supporters in the room. I hold my ground, determined to show that I am not intimidated.

He begins by praising the company’s legacy and his brother’s work, weaving a narrative of stability and trust. As he continues, he occasionally glances at me, his smile polite but condescending.

“Violet has presented a compelling vision for the future,” he acknowledges. “However, dear,” he adds, the word dripping with patronizing sweetness, “there are some concerns that must be addressed.”

My grip tightens on the edge of the table as he continues. “Though she is undoubtedly intelligent and driven, we must consider her youth and relative inexperience in the business world.” He pauses, letting his words sink in, the implication clear.

“I have a business degree, and I’ve completed multiple projects that make me eligible for this post,” I interject, my voice steady despite the simmering anger.

Uncle Joe nods, as if acknowledging a child’s earnestness. “That may be true, Violet, but this is not a college project. This is a multimillion-dollar empire that impacts all of us present in this room. It requires seasoned leadership, someone who has been through the ups and downs of the industry, who knows how to run our business.”

He turns his attention back to the shareholders, his expression earnest. “Let me handle it for now, dear. You can take over once you’re more mature and have had more time to gain the necessary experience.”

A murmur of agreement ripples through the room, and I can feel the weight of his words pressing down on me. The shareholders are nodding, some more vigorously than others, and I know I need to act quickly to counter his argument.

“I understand your concerns,” I say, standing up to address the room. “But I believe that the fresh perspective and innovative ideas I bring to the table are exactly what this company needs right now. Yes, I am young, but that doesn’t mean I lack the capability to lead. My education and my projects have prepared me to think strategically, to drive growth, and to navigate challenges.”

I look around the room, meeting the eyes of the shareholders. “Our company has always thrived on innovation and forward-thinking. With your support, I can ensure we continue that legacy. I am committed to this role, and I am prepared to prove myself every step of the way.”

Uncle Joe watches me, his expression unreadable. “It’s not about your commitment, Violet. It’s about ensuring stability for the company. My proposal is simply to provide that stability until you have had more time to grow into the role.”

“Stability is important,” I agree, “but so is progress. We cannot afford to stand still while our competitors move forward. I respect your experience, Uncle Joe, but I also believe in my vision for this company and my ability to lead it into the future.”

The room falls silent, the tension thick. The shareholders exchange glances, weighing our arguments. I can see some of them nodding, a few even looking impressed. Others, however, remain unconvinced, their loyalty clearly aligned with Uncle Joe.

The chairman of the board finally calls for a vote. One by one, the shareholders raise their hands, their decisions clear. My heart sinks as I watch the majority of hands go up in favor of Uncle Joe.

I feel a rush of disappointment and anger, a bitter taste filling my mouth. Uncle Joe’s condescending smile feels like a slap in the face, his victory a personal affront. It’s not just about the company—it feels like a betrayal.

The chairman announces the results, and the room breaks into scattered applause for Uncle Joe. I struggle to maintain my composure, but the frustration and sense of injustice bubble up inside me. “This isn’t right,” I mutter, clenching my fists.

Uncle Joe stands, making his way over to me. “Violet, dear, I hope you understand. This is what’s best for the company.”

His words are patronizing, dripping with insincerity. I grit my teeth, feeling the anger flare up. “Don’t ‘dear’ me, Uncle Joe. This was never about what’s best for the company. This was about you wanting control.”

His eyes widen slightly, taken aback by my outburst. Before he can respond, Caleb steps in, placing a calming hand on my arm. “Violet, let’s not do this here. We need to leave.”

I pull my arm away, but his steady gaze brings me back to my senses. I take a deep breath, forcing myself to calm down. “I’m sorry. I just—this isn’t fair.”

Caleb nods, understanding. “I know, but we need to stay composed. Let’s go.”

Forcing myself to stay calm, I allow Caleb to guide me out of the room. My heart is still racing, the humiliation and anger almost too much to bear. As we step into the hallway, the cool air helps to soothe my burning frustration.

Caleb walks beside me, his presence reassuring. Once we’re outside, I take another deep breath, trying to center myself. The fresh air helps, but the sting of defeat lingers.

“Don’t take it personally, Violet,” Caleb says, his tone dismissive. “What Joe did was just business.”

I stop, turning to look at him. “Just business? He’s my uncle. He was supposed to support me, not undermine me in front of everyone.”

Caleb sighs, rubbing the back of his neck. “I get that it feels personal, but in the corporate world, decisions like this are made all the time. Joe played on his strengths, and the shareholders bought it. It’s not a reflection of your abilities or your potential.”

His words, though meant to comfort, do little to ease the hurt. “It sure feels like a reflection of my abilities,” I say bitterly.

“You’re young, Violet. You have time to prove yourself. Don’t let this one setback define you,” Caleb insists.

---