Chapter 13 - The Meeting
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The news of the patent transfer hit the financial markets like a bombshell.
Vanguard Holdings’ stock price plummeted as investors realized their hostile takeover bid was completely worthless.
Marcus Thorne requested an immediate, in-person meeting with Clara.
She agreed.
He arrived at her office looking furious, his expensive suit doing little to hide his agitation.
“Ms. Vance,” Thorne sneered, ignoring her outstretched hand. “That was a very cute trick with the patents.”
“It wasn't a trick, Mr. Thorne,” Clara replied calmly, taking her seat. “It was a strategic realignment of our assets.”
“You intentionally sabotaged a legitimate acquisition.”
“I protected my company from a vulture.”
Thorne leaned over her desk, trying to use his physical size to intimidate her.
“You think you’re untouchable because of your father’s legacy. But you just cost your shareholders a massive payout. They will rebel.”
Clara didn't flinch.
She had faced down monsters much closer to home than this man.
“My shareholders are currently enjoying the highest dividends this company has seen in a decade,” Clara stated, her voice icy. “And they prefer long-term stability over short-term greed.”
Thorne scowled.
“We will find a legal loophole to invalidate the transfer.”
“You are welcome to try,” Clara smiled faintly. “But my legal department is very thorough. And frankly, Mr. Thorne, you are boring me.”
Thorne’s face turned red.
“Excuse me?”
“You operate on predictability,” Clara said, leaning back. “You bully, you acquire, you dismantle. It’s unoriginal. I have real work to do.”
She pressed her intercom.
“Maya, please escort Mr. Thorne out.”
Thorne stood up abruptly.
“You will regret this.”
“I rarely regret protecting what belongs to me,” Clara replied, not looking up from her paperwork.
As the door closed behind him, Clara let out a long breath.
She hadn't yelled.
May you like
She hadn't panicked.
She had simply held her ground.
