Chapter 11

Brandon's POV 

I stood confidently at the head of the conference table, addressing the room filled with key stakeholders, including my father, Bryan, and his father. The tension was an open secret as we discussed the proposed merger between our two companies.

"I understand that we all have different interests at play here," I began, "but I truly believe that this merger can benefit everyone involved. By combining our resources and expertise, we can create a more competitive and profitable entity that will drive growth and increase shareholder value."

Bryan snorted, rolling his eyes. "That's all well and good, Brandon, but let's not forget who's really going to benefit from this deal. You and your father are going to come out on top, while we are left with scraps."

I felt a surge of frustration, but I kept my cool. "That's not true, Bryan. This merger is designed to be a win-win for both parties. We are  offering a fair and generous deal that will provide significant value to your shareholders."

Bryan scoffed. "You call that fair? You're trying to lowball us, Brandon. We deserve better."

My father, who had been quietly observing the exchange, spoke up. "Bryan, I think you're misunderstanding the situation. This merger is a strategic move that will benefit both companies in the long run."

Bryan’s face reddened, and he slammed his fist on the table. "I don't care about the long run! I care about what's best for our company, and this deal isn't it."

I stood firm, my voice calm and rational. "I understand your concerns, Bryan, but I assure you that this merger is the best decision for everyone involved. And I have the numbers to prove it or are you particularly against it because you want your idea for more investment which will benefit only the stakeholders at the top and not everyone else?"

The Board of Directors, who had been quietly observing the exchange, nodded in agreement. "We agree with Brandon's assessment," one of them said. "The merger will provide significant benefits to both companies and all shareholders."

Bryan’s face turned beet red with anger, and he stormed out of the room, his father following closely behind.

My father turned to me, a hint of pride in his voice. "Well done, son. You handled that situation with professionalism and poise."

I smiled, feeling a sense of satisfaction. "Thanks, Dad. I just want what's best for everyone involved."

As the meeting adjourned and the room began to clear, I couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. Bryan’s anger and resentment steamed from a long list of behavioral issues, and I knew that this wasn't the end of the conflict.

I sat in my office, sipping my coffee and staring out the window as I replayed the meeting with Bryan and the Board of Directors in my head. Something didn't feel right.

I pressed the intercom button on my phone. "Kyle, can you come in here for a minute?"

My PA and best friend, Kyle, walked in a moment later, a concerned look on his face. "What's up, Brandon? You look like you've got a lot on your mind."

I leaned back in my chair and rubbed my temples. "It's just this whole situation with Bryan. I don't trust him. I feel like there's more to this than we know."

Kyle nodded thoughtfully. "I agree. Bryan’s always been a bit of a wild card. But what makes you think there's more to it?"

I shook my head. "I don't know. Just a gut feeling, I guess. But I'm telling you, Kyle, something doesn't add up."

Kyle's expression turned serious. "Just be careful, Brandon. If you're right, and there is more to this than we know, we don't want to get caught off guard."

I nodded, feeling a sense of unease. "I will. Thanks for listening, Kyle."

Kyle clapped me on the back. "Anytime, buddy. That's what I'm here for."

As Kyle left my office, I couldn't shake the feeling that we were just scratching the surface of something much bigger. And I was determined to get to the bottom of it.