Page 21 of The Billionaire's Betrayal
When the votes were collected, Steve spoke again, his voice resonating in a room where everyone collectively held their breath:
"The counting will now begin."
Seconds seemed like hours, every movement amplified.Community Pilot's future was at stake.
Finally, Steve stood to announce the results:
"The proposal to grant Aron Capital a seat on the board of directors is...rejected."
A sigh of relief swept through the room.Murmurs of approval, even bursts of joy, echoed.Tristan, still impassive, nevertheless revealed a glimmer of satisfaction in his gaze.
Lazarus Rousseau clenched his jaw.He had just lost this battle.
Tristan then addressed the assembly:
"Thank you for your trust.We will continue to move forward together, respecting the values that unite us."
The room erupted in applause.I glanced at Tristan, my heart filled with admiration.He had succeeded!All we had left to do was finalize the fundraising!
13.A calculated risk
TRISTAN
After the Extraordinary General Assembly, the tension had subsided, but we all knew this victory was only temporary.Aron Capital had been denied a seat, but their influence continued to grow.The Board of Directors meeting that followed needed to establish our strategy for the coming months.Our share buyback plans and discussions with potential investors were underway, but new obstacles were already emerging.
"Where do we stand with the Area Ventures negotiations?"asked Claire Lacombe.
"They're still hesitant," I replied."They see potential in our model, but they consider our projections too ambitious in the current context.They're asking for additional guarantees before committing to the fundraising."
A heavy silence settled.The directors exchanged worried glances.Area Ventures was the investment fund most aligned with our values and the most strategic for securing our future.If they joined our investment round, not only would their financial contribution allow us to accelerate our development, but it would also send a strong signal to other investors.Yet their reluctance threatened to compromise this opportunity.
Eva spoke up, bringing a new element to the debate:
"Our share buyback strategy has attracted market attention.The rise in price has drawn speculators betting on our next moves.Each new acquisition is becoming increasingly expensive, which complicates our room to maneuver."
"At this rate, we risk depleting our reserves much faster than anticipated," highlighted one director."Our liquidity isn't infinite, and this could impact our ongoing projects."
Leila, always attentive to human aspects, raised an essential point:
"This situation is also creating internal tensions.Our teams are worried about the company's future.The uncertainty and Aron Capital's threat are affecting their morale.Without clear communication about our strategy, we risk losing their trust."
"What are our options?"asked another director.
Eva continued:
"The share buyback has fulfilled its initial objective: slowing down Aron Capital.But we must now redirect our efforts.The main issue remains the fundraising.Convincing Area Ventures and other investors to join us will be decisive in securing our independence and pursuing our growth."
Steve nodded:
"We could revise our growth projections to make them more conservative.That would reassure Area Ventures and other potential investors.By showing that we are realistic and prudent in our management, we'll strengthen their confidence."
I nodded.
"Very well.Our immediate priority is to finalize our pitch for Area Ventures and other key investors.We need to present them with an adjusted plan that proves the solidity of our strategy.For my part, I'll continue discussions with other potential partners.At the same time, let's launch a detailed internal communication plan.Our teams need to understand our long-term vision and the measures we're putting in place to protect Community Pilot's independence."
Audrey's help was particularly valuable in my negotiations with potential investors and partners.She exceeded all expectations.For each of them, she had prepared a detailed file on their history, previous investments, strategic expectations, and even personal negotiating preferences.Thanks to her meticulous work, I arrived at each meeting with a head start, able to anticipate objections and offer tailored arguments.
This information was crucial.It allowed me not only to adapt my approach but also to build trust from the first exchanges.Audrey didn't just execute her tasks rigorously; she went far beyond.She constantly sought to optimize our approaches, spotting the slightest opportunities for adjustment.Her confidence, intuition, and ability to analyze power dynamics in a discussion impressed me.
