Chapter 3

Caleb frowned, and his security officer nearly put me in a restraint hold.

I dodged him and shouted as quickly as I could.

"Mr. Whitaker, I'm Nora Keppler from the computer engineering program at Crestmont Institute of Technology. You saw my automation project during Homecoming.

"I'm here because I want to discuss an investment."

Professor Cole had hinted that someone wanted to buy my technology. At the time, I had been proud and determined to remain an independent researcher, so I hadn't even agreed to a meeting.

Caleb studied me from head to toe, then seemed to remember.

"You have ten minutes."

I climbed into the car before he could change his mind.

"The project has progressed steadily since your visit, but the testing phase requires enormous computing capacity.

"The administrator controlling our budget doesn't understand the field. He sees only the cost, so he refuses to release more funding.

"You do understand it. Avenrix is one of the leading technology companies in the industry. You know the potential return is substantial.

"I want you to join the development as an investor. Based on our current projections, the money you put in now should at least double within two years of launch."

Caleb reviewed the data package I sent him. Approval flickered in his eyes, though his expression stayed unreadable.

"You know your field.

"But I could simply buy the project. Why should I finance your company instead?"

I met his gaze.

"Because I would destroy the program before surrendering ownership of my work.

"Your engineers could reproduce the technology eventually. The real question is how much time that would cost. In this industry, the first company to market captures the profit.

"Backing me now is the most efficient option. It gives you the shortest path and the strongest lead."

When he gave the slightest nod, I pressed harder.

"I'll accept a performance-based investment agreement. I'll stake everything I own on the project becoming profitable within three months of launch."

Caleb smiled, clearly surprised.

"You're young, but you have nerve.

"I reviewed your technology when I visited the institute. It meets our standards.

"I'll have legal draft an investment agreement immediately. Finance can transfer the first installment to the university tomorrow.

"I want a progress report every three months. If the work stalls, I reserve the right to pull further funding."

When I stepped out of his car, my knees nearly buckled on the sidewalk.

Relief and wild joy filled my chest. I wanted to sit down and sob.

But too much remained unresolved. I forced myself to breathe and called Professor Cole.

"Professor, the project can continue.

"I just met with Caleb Whitaker. Avenrix Systems is willing to fund the research, so we don't have to worry about the university grant anymore.

"The first transfer can arrive tomorrow. I'll submit the revised funding report tonight."

Silence answered me. It was nothing like the celebration I had imagined.

Dread returned at once.

Then Professor Cole's furious voice came through the phone.

"Continue? Not a chance.

"Nora, I never expected this from you. Debt collectors have been calling the dean's office looking for you.

"The institute takes integrity complaints seriously. Your mother is already here. Get back to campus now."