Page 119 of A Whole New Play

Henry clears his throat to draw the room’s attention. “We are very excited to have you joining Paxter at this stage. With your capital, we are sure to take the industry by storm.”

“You already are,” Derek Lawson says. “That’s why we’re here. Should we sit to discuss the finer details of the investment?”

“Of course.” Henry pulls back a chair and waves for me to sit down. The men wait until I do to take their seats.

The conversation turns to business. I lay out my leather portfolio when we begin to discuss Paxter’s projected quarterly earnings, handing Derek and Adam each a paper with our current financials, ROIs, product yields, and overhead costs. You name the figure, you can find it on the paper.

“This is very thorough,” Derek remarks.

“Yes.”

“We appreciate thorough,” Adam tells me.

It takes everything I have not to preen from the subtle praise. It’s one thing to think you’re good at your job, but it’s another to hear it. Especially from a businessman who is a freaking billionaire.

“And this investment will guarantee what percent stake in the company?”

“Ten,” I answer. “To be divided between you as you see fit.” This information was covered before this meeting, but it’s not surprising that the men want to confirm the finer details before officially signing a rather large check.

More details are discussed.

Questions are answered.

In less than half an hour, Derek Lawson and Adam Moreno sign the papers to officially join Paxter as angel investors.

Neither Will, Henry, nor I can hide our ecstatic grins. The company was already doing well, but with this financing, our potential is practically limitless. The company will be scaling up so quickly. I mentally prepare myself for more late nights until we can get enough staff to help shoulder the workload.

“I look forward to seeing what you guys can do,” Derek shakes each of our hands.

Adam does the same. “Yes,” the Spanish billionaire smiles. “Let me take you all for a celebratory drink.”

“We’d love to,” Will answers for us.

I keep a polite smile on my face, disappointed that my evening’s plans have been thwarted.

What plans?

Sulking in your apartment while you watch the Rough Riders playoff game?

“Isn’t there a football game on tonight?” Henry asks.

I turn and find the second founder of Paxter watching me. He, as well as everyone else in the company, knows my dad is a coach for the Rough Riders. It’s also likely they know I used to date Carter Jones. Though, no one has ever asked me about it.

I shoot him an appreciative smile before saying out loud, “Yeah, it’s the conference championship game.”

“Ah, I totally forgot.” Will shakes his head and then explains to our investors, “Valerie’s dad works for the Rough Riders. This is the first time the team’s reached the championship in fifteen years.”

“Well then, we should go somewhere that will be playing the game,” Derek says. “Unless you already have plans?”

I do.

“No.” Once again, I force my smile to stay on my face. “I don’t have plans.”

“Great,” Will jumps in. “Let us finish up a few things here, and then we can meet you in the lobby in half an hour. One of our admin assistants can give you a tour of the rest of the office while you wait.”

“Sounds good,” Derek replies politely.

Adam snorts with amusement. “You Americans and your American football. I’m telling you, fútbol is much more entertaining to watch.”

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