Chapter 2

THE  SHARK IN THE SUIT 

Ryder Blackwood smiled charmingly as he shook hands with Asher's father. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Mr. Thompson," he said, his voice smooth and confident.

Asher's father smiled back, his eyes wary. "The pleasure is mine, Mr. Blackwood," he said. "Please, call me James."

Ryder nodded, his smile never wavering. "Of course, James," he said. "And please, call me Ryder."

As Ryder took a seat at the table, Asher couldn't help but notice the way he moved. He was like a shark, gliding effortlessly through the water, his eyes fixed on his prey.

Asher's eyes narrowed as he watched Ryder. He didn't trust him, not one bit.

"So, Ryder," Asher's father said, leaning back in his chair. "Tell us about your proposal."

Ryder smiled again, his eyes glinting with excitement. "I believe that Thompson Industries has tremendous potential," he said. "But I also believe that it's being held back by outdated management and inefficient practices."

Asher's eyes flashed with anger, but he kept his mouth shut. He knew that he had to let Ryder make his pitch, no matter how much he disagreed with him.

"I propose a merger between Thompson Industries and Blackwood Incorporated," Ryder continued. "I believe that our two companies could complement each other perfectly, and that together, we could achieve great things."

Asher's father leaned forward, his eyes interested. "Go on," he said.

Ryder nodded, his smile growing wider. "I believe that we could increase efficiency and reduce costs by streamlining operations and eliminating redundant positions," he said. "And I believe that we could increase revenue by expanding into new markets and developing new products."

Asher's eyes narrowed as he listened to Ryder's proposal. He could see the appeal of it, but he also knew that it would mean sacrificing a lot of what made Thompson Industries special.

"I'm not sure that's the right approach," Asher said finally, his voice firm. "I think we need to focus on preserving the values and traditions that have made our company successful for so long."

Ryder's smile never wavered, but Asher could see a glint of annoyance in his eyes. "I understand your concerns, Asher," he said. "But I believe that my proposal is the best way forward for Thompson Industries."

Asher's eyes flashed with anger, but he kept his cool. He knew that he had to stay calm and focused if he was going to defeat Ryder.

"I disagree," Asher said finally. "And I think that we need to explore other options before we consider a merger."

Ryder's smile grew wider, and he leaned forward, his eyes glinting with excitement. "I love a good challenge," he said. "Let's do it."

Asher's eyes narrowed as he watched Ryder. He knew that he was in for the fight of his life.

As the meeting drew to a close, Asher couldn't help but feel a sense of unease. He knew that Ryder was a formidable opponent, and he wasn't sure if he was ready for the battle ahead.

But as he looked at Ryder, Asher felt a spark of determination ignite within him. He was going to fight for Thompson Industries, no matter what it took.

And as he stood up to leave, Asher caught Ryder's eye. For a moment, they just stared at each other, the tension between them palpable.

Then Ryder smiled, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Game on," he said.

Asher's eyes narrowed, and he smiled back. "Bring it on," he said.

As they left the conference room, Asher knew that the battle for Thompson Industries had begun. And he was ready to fight.