Page 22 of The Billionaire's Betrayal
I even ended up taking her to some of these negotiations.As I had imagined, exchanges became more fluid in her presence, and even the most demanding interlocutors seemed to yield to her charm.With her, I felt better equipped to successfully complete the new fundraising round.
That morning, as I was reviewing the new projections for Area Ventures, Audrey entered my office.
"Tristan, I've finished organizing your notes and drafted the specifications for the Australian branch.I find this project fascinating."
She paused, as if to give more weight to what would follow:
"After studying the opportunities and challenges of this new market, I think I can handle part of the implementation," she said confidently.
I frowned, surprised by her proposal.
"That's ambitious, Audrey.You've been here a short time, and this type of project requires much more extensive experience," I replied, trying to measure my words.
She smiled, full of confidence.
"I understand, but you've seen what I'm capable of.My lack of experience can also be an asset: I'm open to new ideas and I know how to adapt.Let me handle the first steps, like coordination with local teams and establishing initial business relationships.You've seen how I've managed difficult clients.I can bring that same dynamism to this project."
She wasn't wrong.Audrey had proven she could handle tense situations skillfully, but managing the development of a foreign branch was another matter entirely.It required a deep understanding of the economic, legal, and cultural specificities of the country.It was a project of a completely different scale.
I took a deep breath, thinking about the work overload that had weighed on me since the Extraordinary General Assembly.I needed to delegate more effectively.Eva, with whom I had planned to work on this project, was already overwhelmed between her responsibilities and the Hope Project.Audrey, despite her lack of experience, had this fresh energy that could bring new life to the team.
"Listen, you've proven your skills, but this project is too vast for you to take on alone," I said, quickly flipping through the file she had just placed."Here's what I propose: you'll handle the coordination with local teams and initial exchanges with our partners on-site.I'll assign an experienced project director to support you, and we'll see how you do."
Audrey looked at me, a satisfied gleam in her eyes.
"Thank you, Tristan.I'm sure I can do it.I'll do everything to steer this project in the right direction."
I nodded.Her enthusiasm was contagious.Even while remaining cautious, I knew she deserved her chance.She was competent, ambitious, and ready to invest herself.With her energy, she could really make a difference in such a demanding market.
"But remember, Audrey, if you encounter the slightest difficulty, come see me immediately," I added, more serious.
She nodded with a radiant smile.
"Count on me, Tristan.I won't disappoint you."
I watched her leave the room, torn between confidence and apprehension.Her motivation and ability to learn quickly compensated for her lack of experience.By entrusting her with part of the project under supervision, I was taking a calculated risk.The company needed new blood, that boldness that drives innovation.
I was trying to convince myself of that, anyway.
14.You're imagining things
EVA
Leila set her lunch tray across from mine before taking a seat.
"Wasn't Satoshi supposed to join us?"I wondered.
"I tied him up and hung him from the ceiling of his bat-cave," she replied, eyes sparkling with mischief.I chuckled, perfectly visualizing the image.
"What did he do this time?"
"He hacked my computer and played a Star Wars video while I was in the middle of a meeting with my marketing team.Can you believe that?I was so embarrassed!"
I laughed, genuinely amused.
Leila and Satoshi's story was quite explosive.They had dated during our last year of studies and then separated.Since then, they continued to circle each other, playing the worst pranks.
"This time, he'll think twice before doing it again..."she snickered.
