Page 20 of The Billionaire's Betrayal
Mr.Mackellen thought for a moment, his fingers gently tapping the table, betraying his reservations.
"A month is a long time.We already have programs in place, and I can't tie up my teams full-time for this."
"I completely understand, and I'm ready to adjust the duration.Perhaps two weeks would be a good compromise?The goal isn't to train them in depth but to show them the great work you're doing here so they have the right references.With mentors on site, I'm convinced the experience will be enriching for them without disrupting your teams too much."
He stared at me for a long time, his eyes shining with a calculating gleam.The silence stretched, and I maintained his gaze without wavering.Finally, he slowly nodded.
"Two weeks seems doable, provided they're well supervised.But I want to make sure it's also beneficial for the company.Maybe they could participate in a specific project?"
I hastened to agree, relieved but keeping my enthusiasm measured.
"Of course, I think they would be delighted to contribute to something concrete.That would make their experience even more valuable."
Mr.Mackellen looked at me, slightly amused.
"You know how to conduct your negotiations, Mrs.Mercier.I hope your project will be a success."
I smiled at him sincerely.
"Thank you, I know how precious each day you grant them is.Your support is invaluable."
12.General Assembly
EVA
I had barely seen Tristan in the last few days.Between daily tasks, the Hope Foundation, and buying back shares on the market, sometimes directly from shareholders I knew personally to block Aron Capital's advance, I didn't have a minute to myself.By evening, I was drained, and only my workout sessions at the club kept me going.
Fortunately, the buyback phase was ending.We had barely repurchased 3% of the shares, but it was enough to slow down Aron Capital.
The Extraordinary General Assembly took place in a packed room where the air seemed charged with tension.About fifty shareholders and representatives crowded in, all aware of the importance of the decisions ahead.I felt this nervousness in every fiber of my body.
Aron Capital had skillfully maneuvered, increasing their stake to 23% of Community Pilot shares and rallying a handful of dissatisfied small shareholders who judged our growth too slow.Their combined influence now reached 29%, a considerable force, even if it remained insufficient to reach the blocking minority of 33%.
Lazarus Rousseau stood up, naturally imposing his presence.Beneath his cold exterior, I sensed a sharp mind that had meticulously prepared his intervention.
"It's time to breathe new dynamism into Community Pilot," he began in a measured voice."Our analysis shows that the company isn't fully exploiting its potential.The market is evolving rapidly, and our competitors are gaining market share that we could have conquered.With our expertise in international development and our financial resources, we can significantly accelerate growth and create more value for all shareholders.For this, we request a seat on the board of directors."
The murmurs in the room betrayed the impact of his arguments.Some nodded, acknowledging the relevance of his analysis.Tristan rose in turn, calm and self-assured.His gaze swept the room, naturally commanding silence.
"Community Pilot's vision goes beyond simple growth indicators," he declared firmly."Our mission is to facilitate collaboration on a global scale while preserving our core values.Yes, we could grow faster by sacrificing certain principles, but at what cost?Our sustainable and ethical development model is precisely what differentiates us and makes us attractive to our clients and partners."
He paused, letting his words take effect.
"We don't reject change or evolution.That's why we've already initiated discussions with partners who share our long-term vision.Our development plan anticipates accelerated growth, but in a responsible and sustainable manner.It's also why we've consolidated our position in recent weeks.We've strengthened our shareholding by buying back shares to protect Community Pilot against opportunistic takeovers.This ensures that decisions made today will serve our values and long-term vision, not the interests of an external actor whose intentions remain unclear."
Lazarus Rousseau remained silent, his narrowed eyes betraying his annoyance.He had just realized that the battle would be more difficult than expected.The recent increase in the block of shares held by the management team reduced his room to maneuver.
"Shareholders expect concrete results, not promises," he interjected."Your cautious approach is making us lose crucial opportunities."
"Our results show consistent and healthy growth," Tristan replied."Our independence guarantees our ability to maintain this course while innovating.The partnerships we're developing will strengthen this position without compromising our decision-making autonomy."
The animated discussions that followed showed that each camp had scored points.
Steve, the chairman of the meeting, spoke to initiate the vote:
"Ladies and gentlemen, we will now proceed to vote on granting Aron Capital a seat on the board of directors[3]," Steve announced solemnly.
The room was engulfed in palpable tension.
