Page 63 of The Next Door Billionaire's Deception

“Why don’tyoucontacthim?”

“You’re right. Almost forgot I can do that.”

I pick up my phone and dial Alex. There’s no response. I try a second time, but it’s still the same thing.

“I suggest you do that later, though. It’s almost time for your meeting,” Anna says, glancing at her wristwatch.

“I just hope Mr. Lamar accepts my invitation.”

A folder in hand, I head for the conference room with Anna in tow. The receptionist informs me that John Lamar arrived ten minutes ago and is already waiting. Not only did he make it, but he was also quite early at that – the meeting isn’t due for another hour.

As the automatic doors to the conference room swing open, John Lamar, who’s standing by the open glass windows, turns. A tall, old, balding man, Lamar has the aura of a predator. With his hulking stature, and thin, set eyes, his presence dominates the room.

Seeing me, he breaks into a wide grin.

“Ah, Mr. Burnes!”

Striding across the room to meet him, I offer him a hand. He shakes it, his gaze sticking to mine.

“I’m glad you accepted my invitation."

“Ah, don’t thank me yet. I only did so out of curiosity. What could be so important that you had to see me in person, instead of representatives, or, at most, the CEO?”

“I know the power you wield in Emerald as the head of the board, Mr. Lamar. I also know you’re an acute businessman.”

His grin fades from his face, and he raises his eyebrows. I’ve caught his attention. Good.

“I’m just a man that knows how to maximize profit and minimize loss. So? What did you call me here for? Our representatives have given you our terms for the takeover, haven’t they? I can’t imagine you inviting me here to discuss anything other than that.”

“You’re very astute. But I’m not here to push a takeover deal. Far from it. I haveanotheroffer for you and your company.”

I lower myself into one of the swiveling chairs. “Please take a seat, Mr. Lamar.”

He sinks into a chair just opposite mine. “What’s the deal, Mr. Burnes?”

“A takeover will be ill-advised at this time. There’s a lot of potential for growth for both of our companies, but a takeover limit that potential. There’s another way both parties can benefit, without anyone being laid off or any unfair deals.”

“Cut to the chase, Mr. Burnes. Why am I here?”

“A partnership. Between both our companies. That’s my deal.”

“What? A partnership? Let me get this straight. You want our companies to enter a partnership?

Did I stutter?

“Exactly. We both keep our staff, and our profits for the year, but we enter a merger, without any buyouts. There’s no loss, and there’s a lot of gains, because of the fresh exchange of ideas and all.”

Lamar rested his face on his knuckles. I’ve said what I wanted to say. Now I’m giving him time to consider.

After a long moment, he raises his head. “Well, Mr. Burnes. I admit the deal sounds good. But, I must ask, is there any catch?”

I flash him a winning smile. “None, whatsoever.”

His gaze narrows. “A few weeks ago, you were so intent on buying Emerald for its growth potential, you said. What changed your mind?”

“If I took over Emerald, I would have eventually merged it. Why do that when I can enter a partnership and keep brilliant minds like yours on board, working hand-in-hand?”

Lamar’s wide grin returns. “My, I gotta say, you’re a clever man, Mr. Burnes. Alright. I’m in.”

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