Page 7 of The Billionaire's Betrayal
I took a moment to process.If they secured that seat, they could rally other shareholders to their cause.
"What’s our move?"I asked Claire, my tone serious.
"We have two options: either we buy back shares before they cross the critical threshold, or we bring in new strategic investors who align with our vision to inject funds and dilute their influence."
Buying shares would keep us in control but would drain significant resources, forcing us to dip into reserves or take on debt.Raising funds would secure long-term financial support but would take time.
Satoshi nodded.
"Given the cost of shares, the second option seems more realistic."
Claire chimed back in.
"I’m already in talks with a few funds that align with our values.I’ll send over their details, but we need to act fast.Aron Capital is already working to sway smaller shareholders.If we don’t move quickly, they could blindside us at the next general assembly."
We agreed on an urgent meeting with the co-founders and trusted partners.After thanking Claire, I let Satoshi head back to his office.
When Audrey returned from her lunch break, I asked her to schedule the meeting.Despite the tension brewing from Aron Capital’s aggressive play, I felt a sense of relief knowing I could count on her.If there was one thing I was sure of, it would be flawlessly executed.
4.We make a great team
EVA
At noon, I met up with Leila for our lunch break.She and I went way back to high school.Specifically, to the first day of our senior year.We both wanted to avoid the troublemakers in the back, so we grabbed seats in the front row, right by the window and the radiator.Contrary to popular belief, it’s actually one of the best spots to stay under the teachers’ radar.That day, she gave me a granola bar, and I lent her a pad, which I always carried for emergencies.That kind of exchange seals a lifelong friendship.
"What do you think of Audrey?"I asked Leila as we sat at an isolated table in the cafeteria with our trays.
"She seems very serious and professional.Why?"Leila replied, taking a bite of her food.
"She was all over Tristan this morning.Her chest was practically brushing against him.And when she saw me notice her little game, she flashed me a triumphant smirk that made me want to shove her out of the way."
Leila stopped eating and gave me a perplexed look.Then, I saw the realization dawn on her.
"Oh… You think she’s trying to seduce Tristan?"
"I’m sure of it."
"Did you talk to Tristan about it?"
"Yeah, but he thinks I’m imagining things.He’s so desperate for an assistant that he refuses to question her suspicious behavior."
"What worries you?"
"That Tristan might fall into her trap without even realizing it.She’s got everything going for her, a stunning body, a sharp mind, and unshakable confidence.You saw her at the meeting this morning.Every guy in the room was craning his neck to get a better look."
"Yeah, except Tristan."
"He was fascinated too; he just hid it better.At times, I wanted to kick him where it hurts to snap him out of it and remind him that I exist too."
Leila nearly choked on her food.
"I’d pay to see that," she laughed, totally unsympathetic."So, what’s your plan?"
"Nothing for now.I need to choose the right moment to avoid pushing Tristan away.Right now, he puts her on a pedestal, and the slightest criticism could backfire, making me look like some jealous, insecure woman.I’ll wait for the right time."
Leila shook her head in amusement.
"You are impressive, Eva.If I were in your shoes, I’d have already scratched my boyfriend’s eyes out."
