Page 12 of The Billionaire’s Betrayal (Billionaires of Paris #2)
EVA
I had barely seen Tristan in the last few days.
Between daily tasks, the Hope Foundation, and buying back shares on the market, sometimes directly from shareholders I knew personally to block Aron Capital's advance, I didn't have a minute to myself.
By evening, I was drained, and only my workout sessions at the club kept me going.
The Extraordinary General Assembly took place in a packed room where the air seemed charged with tension. About fifty shareholders and representatives crowded in, all aware of the importance of the decisions ahead. I felt this nervousness in every fiber of my body.
Lazarus Rousseau stood up, naturally imposing his presence. Beneath his cold exterior, I sensed a sharp mind that had meticulously prepared his intervention.
"It's time to breathe new dynamism into Community Pilot," he began in a measured voice.
"Our analysis shows that the company isn't fully exploiting its potential.
The market is evolving rapidly, and our competitors are gaining market share that we could have conquered.
With our expertise in international development and our financial resources, we can significantly accelerate growth and create more value for all shareholders.
For this, we request a seat on the board of directors. "
The murmurs in the room betrayed the impact of his arguments. Some nodded, acknowledging the relevance of his analysis. Tristan rose in turn, calm and self-assured. His gaze swept the room, naturally commanding silence.
"Community Pilot's vision goes beyond simple growth indicators," he declared firmly.
"Our mission is to facilitate collaboration on a global scale while preserving our core values.
Yes, we could grow faster by sacrificing certain principles, but at what cost?
Our sustainable and ethical development model is precisely what differentiates us and makes us attractive to our clients and partners. "
He paused, letting his words take effect.
"We don't reject change or evolution. That's why we've already initiated discussions with partners who share our long-term vision.
Our development plan anticipates accelerated growth, but in a responsible and sustainable manner.
It's also why we've consolidated our position in recent weeks.
We've strengthened our shareholding by buying back shares to protect Community Pilot against opportunistic takeovers.
This ensures that decisions made today will serve our values and long-term vision, not the interests of an external actor whose intentions remain unclear. "
Lazarus Rousseau remained silent, his narrowed eyes betraying his annoyance. He had just realized that the battle would be more difficult than expected. The recent increase in the block of shares held by the management team reduced his room to maneuver.
"Shareholders expect concrete results, not promises," he interjected. "Your cautious approach is making us lose crucial opportunities."
"Our results show consistent and healthy growth," Tristan replied. "Our independence guarantees our ability to maintain this course while innovating. The partnerships we're developing will strengthen this position without compromising our decision-making autonomy."
The animated discussions that followed showed that each camp had scored points.
Steve, the chairman of the meeting, spoke to initiate the vote:
"Ladies and gentlemen, we will now proceed to vote on granting Aron Capital a seat on the board of directors [3] ," Steve announced solemnly.
The room was engulfed in palpable tension.
When the votes were collected, Steve spoke again, his voice resonating in a room where everyone collectively held their breath:
"The counting will now begin."
Seconds seemed like hours, every movement amplified. Community Pilot's future was at stake.
Finally, Steve stood to announce the results:
"The proposal to grant Aron Capital a seat on the board of directors is... rejected."
A sigh of relief swept through the room. Murmurs of approval, even bursts of joy, echoed. Tristan, still impassive, nevertheless revealed a glimmer of satisfaction in his gaze.
Lazarus Rousseau clenched his jaw. He had just lost this battle.
Tristan then addressed the assembly:
"Thank you for your trust. We will continue to move forward together, respecting the values that unite us."
The room erupted in applause. I glanced at Tristan, my heart filled with admiration. He had succeeded! All we had left to do was finalize the fundraising!