Chapter 32 - The Terms of Engagement
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Two days later, Charlotte and Ethan sat in her office, poring over the final risk assessments for the Denver project. The numbers were not just solid; they were exceptionally well-structured. Ryan’s firm had done its due diligence perfectly.
"I have to admit, I’m thoroughly impressed," Ethan said, tapping his pen against the printed dossier. "He didn't just bring us a good idea; he brought us a legally bulletproof, ethically sound execution plan. The city council in Denver is already fully on board."
"He had to learn the hard way," Charlotte murmured, signing her name at the bottom of the risk assessment form. "But he learned."
"So, we are officially greenlighting the partnership?" Ethan asked, raising an eyebrow.
"We are," Charlotte confirmed. "But there will be strict conditions. Bennett Global will not simply be a silent checkbook. I want our own compliance officers physically on the ground in Denver. I want monthly, unredacted financial audits. And I want a binding clause that explicitly caps executive compensation for the duration of the build."
Ethan smiled, making notes on his legal pad.
"You’re putting him on a very tight leash," Ethan noted.
"I am establishing the standard operating procedure for all future Bennett Global joint ventures," Charlotte corrected him smoothly. "This isn't about punishing Ryan. This is about protecting our shareholders and the employee pension fund. If he truly wants to build affordable housing, he won't mind the oversight."
Later that afternoon, Charlotte initiated a video conference with Ryan and his senior partners in Denver to finalize the agreement.
Ryan appeared on the screen, sitting in a modest, glass-walled conference room.
"We have reviewed the proposal," Charlotte announced, skipping the small talk. "Bennett Global is prepared to fully fund the equity requirement for the Denver initiative. However, we have added several strict compliance and oversight riders to the final contract."
She outlined the mandatory audits, the presence of her compliance team, and the strict limits on executive payouts.
"If these terms are unacceptable, we will respectfully decline the partnership," Charlotte finished, her face impassive.
Ryan’s partners looked slightly nervous, exchanging quick glances. But Ryan didn't hesitate for a single second.
"The terms are entirely acceptable, Charlotte," Ryan said, his voice carrying genuine respect. "We welcome the oversight. We want this project to be completely transparent from day one."
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"Excellent," Charlotte said, allowing a small, professional smile to touch her lips. "Ethan will forward the final contracts within the hour. I look forward to breaking ground with your team, Ryan."
"Thank you, Charlotte," Ryan said softly before the screen went dark. "I won't let you down."
