Page 84 of If the Ring Fits

As Adrian shakes his head, chuckling, I grin back at our hosts, their easy-going attitude but clear brilliance already sparking my excitement.

For the pitch, we settle into a meeting room. My fingers fumble with the projector cord as I set up my presentation materials, hoping my console idea will fit right in.

I take a deep breath and launch into my pitch, walking them through the educational features, accessibility settings and imaginative games. “… and that’s how this console will revolutionize playtime for kids everywhere,” I conclude, the words tumbling out in a rush of enthusiasm.

Reaching for the demo tablet, I hand it to Thomas, but hewaves me off with a self-deprecating chuckle. “Oh, you’d better give that to Reese. She’s the one you need to impress.” His effortless charm and humility catch me off guard, a refreshing change from the big egos I was used to at my previous start-up.

As Reese explores the demo, her brow furrows in concentration. Each tap and swipe ratchets up my anxiety. I study her face for any hint of a reaction. Seconds feel like hours.

Suddenly, her expression transforms, eyes widening with delight. “This is incredible! The perfect companion to our K2-P toy line. I’ve been researching how to teach coding skills in a fun, approachable way and your console nails it.”

Pride surges through me at her effusive praise. I’m about to respond when, from across the table, K2-P lets out a sarcastic beep. “Excuse me, I believe I remain the superior product.”

His comedic timing defuses my nerves, pulling a laugh from everyone.

Reese continues to gush, seemingly oblivious. “Seriously, Rowena, this blows every other idea out of the water. The accessibility features, the engaging gameplay… it’s genius.”

As I bask in the validation of my work, I marvel at the energy in the room. Thomas and Reese’s passion for creating meaningful toys is infectious, their easy banter and obvious affection heartwarming. Even K2-P’s snarky interjections feel like being part of a family.

I catch Adrian’s gaze. His subtle nod and proud smile are the cherry on the cake.

Thomas’s grin widens as he watches his wife’s enthusiastic response. “Honey, we might need to work on your negotiation tactics. You’re not supposed to let them know how much you love it right off the bat.” His teasing tone is laced with adoration.

Reese laughs, her cheeks coloring. “I can’t help it! When something is this perfect, why hide it?” She turns back to me, her eyes sparkling. “Rowena, I genuinely believe our visions align seamlessly. Creating educational toys that are inclusive of children with disabilities is a core value for us.”

Thomas nods in agreement. “Absolutely. And what’s great is that your console works brilliantly as a stand-alone product but can also integrate with our existing K2-P line as an add-on.”

“Just ensure my magnificent design remains the star attraction,” K2-P interjects, his radar eyes swiveling between us. “I have a reputation to uphold, you know.”

The robot’s quip cracks me up. It’s astonishing how this quirky invention has stolen my heart in mere minutes. Reese and Thomas must’ve poured their souls into its creation.

Thomas leans forward, his expression turning serious. “Rowena, I’ll need some time to crunch the numbers, but I’m confident we can put together an attractive offer. A royalty agreement, coupled with a collaborative R&D arrangement. How does that sound?”

I’m floating on air with the promise of a dream coming true. I glance at Adrian, who gives me an encouraging smile before he addresses Thomas. “That sounds fantastic. In the interest of full transparency, we are taking meetings with other potential partners as well.”

Thomas nods, unruffled. “Of course, I wouldn’t expect anything less. But I assure you, we’ll be able to table an attractive proposal. This could be the start of something incredible.”

As the meeting concludes, handshakes are exchanged and smiles are mirrored all around. Adrian and I make our way out, a giddy excitement bubbling within me.

The last thing I hear as we exit the conference room is K2-P’s indignant voice. “Wait a minute, do I get a cut of these royalties?”

“No!” comes their joint reply.

Angry beeps follow. Then Thomas’s and Reese’s laughter mingles with the robot’s persistent grumbling.

This is where my toy console belongs—in the hands of creators who understand the power of play to change lives. I’m almost tempted to go back in and tell them I want to sign right away.

As if sensing my exuberance, Adrian turns to me as we exit the building. “Make sure you listen to the other proposal before you decide anything.”

I nod while silently disagreeing.

Adrian sees straight through me, reinforcing his warning. “MC Toys is great, but they’re just a start-up with limited distribution.”

“Why? Who are we meeting next?”

His responding smile is dazzling. “Only the largest toy manufacturer in the country.”

My jaw dangles open. “How did you manage that? I suppose they don’t just take walk-ins.”

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