Page 58 of The Next Door Billionaire's Deception

“It’s not – ”

I pause. Maybe it won’t be much of a bad idea to get a fresh perspective.

“Okay, here’s the issue. So my consulting firm wants to merge with another, for various business reasons. We made a bid earlier, but it was rejected. Now, we’re making a much bigger offer, while also at the same time trying to buy more stocks to be in a controlling position.”

“Do you have any idea why the first bid was rejected? Maybe you need to take that into consideration when making a bigger one.”

“Well, let’s just say, the firm has potential, but is being mismanaged. What do you think we should do? Go forward with the proposal, or take the gradual step of building stocks?”

She remains silent for a minute or two.

“Is there anything else at stake in the merger?”

“Good question. There actually is. The CEO of the other firm is a figurehead, but he’s a close friend, and I don’t wanna ruin our friendship by leaving him out in the cold with the merger. But with the way his firm is going, it won’t be long before they’re out of business.”

She relaxes on her chair. “There’s only one thing you can do.”

I sit up. “What’s that?”

“The right thing. Honestly, I can relate to the story. Emerald has had some takeovers over the years. You just do what you feel is right.”

“Alright. Thanks. For being here.”

She takes a sip of her juice. “Works both ways.”

Lunch is served, and we eat amidst some chatter.

After lunch with Melissa, I drive back to my office, where I’m told the representatives of Emerald are already waiting, back from their lunch break.

All morning, we haggled between the interest of my company and theirs. Unable to reach a consensus before lunchtime, both parties decided to take a break. I decided to spend my lunch with Melissa, who was free, as it turned out.

Striding to the conference room, I’m greeted at the entrance by Thomas, my financial officer, Jonathan Higgins, my Human Resources and Development manager, and Anna, my secretary.

“Welcome back, sir,” Anna says, handing me my tablet.

I glance at my wristwatch — Ten minutes past two.

“Are they back inside?”

Jonathan nods. “Yes sir.”

“Alright. Let’s go then.”

I enter the room, followed by Jonathan and Thomas, and the three representatives of Emerald stand to welcome us, extending their hands.

After shaking them each, I lay down my tablet. “Let’s continue the business.”

One of the reps clears his throat. “After reviewing our earlier discussions, we’ve decided to come to an agreement. Emerald Inc. is for sale on three terms.”

I observe the three men, all smiles and chins raised.

“First, our asking price for Emerald is one billion dollars, plus a thirty percent interest in all profit for the next ten years. Also, the current members of the board are allowed to keep their share. Last of all, Emerald is not merged with Vibrant, but kept as a separate entity, albeit under your control.”

My HR & development manager, Jonathan, leaps up, opening his mouth. I raise a hand.

“No, Jonathan. They’ve laid down their terms. We cannot deny them that right. Don’t lose your cool.”

Jonathan, gritting his teeth, sits down. A smirk plays on the lips of one Emerald Inc. rep.

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