Page 13 of The Billionaire’s Betrayal (Billionaires of Paris #2)

TRISTAN

After the Extraordinary General Assembly, the tension had subsided, but we all knew this victory was only temporary.

Aron Capital had been denied a seat, but their influence continued to grow.

The Board of Directors meeting that followed needed to establish our strategy for the coming months.

Our share buyback plans and discussions with potential investors were underway, but new obstacles were already emerging.

"Where do we stand with the Area Ventures negotiations?" asked Claire Lacombe.

"They're still hesitant," I replied. "They see potential in our model, but they consider our projections too ambitious in the current context. They're asking for additional guarantees before committing to the fundraising."

A heavy silence settled. The directors exchanged worried glances.

Area Ventures was the investment fund most aligned with our values and the most strategic for securing our future.

If they joined our investment round, not only would their financial contribution allow us to accelerate our development, but it would also send a strong signal to other investors.

Yet their reluctance threatened to compromise this opportunity.

Eva spoke up, bringing a new element to the debate:

"Our share buyback strategy has attracted market attention. The rise in price has drawn speculators betting on our next moves. Each new acquisition is becoming increasingly expensive, which complicates our room to maneuver."

"At this rate, we risk depleting our reserves much faster than anticipated," highlighted one director. "Our liquidity isn't infinite, and this could impact our ongoing projects."

Leila, always attentive to human aspects, raised an essential point:

"This situation is also creating internal tensions. Our teams are worried about the company's future. The uncertainty and Aron Capital's threat are affecting their morale. Without clear communication about our strategy, we risk losing their trust."

"What are our options?" asked another director.

Eva continued:

"The share buyback has fulfilled its initial objective: slowing down Aron Capital. But we must now redirect our efforts. The main issue remains the fundraising. Convincing Area Ventures and other investors to join us will be decisive in securing our independence and pursuing our growth."

Steve nodded:

"We could revise our growth projections to make them more conservative. That would reassure Area Ventures and other potential investors. By showing that we are realistic and prudent in our management, we'll strengthen their confidence."

I nodded.

"Very well. Our immediate priority is to finalize our pitch for Area Ventures and other key investors.

We need to present them with an adjusted plan that proves the solidity of our strategy.

For my part, I'll continue discussions with other potential partners.

At the same time, let's launch a detailed internal communication plan.

Our teams need to understand our long-term vision and the measures we're putting in place to protect Community Pilot's independence. "

Audrey's help was particularly valuable in my negotiations with potential investors and partners.

She exceeded all expectations. For each of them, she had prepared a detailed file on their history, previous investments, strategic expectations, and even personal negotiating preferences.

Thanks to her meticulous work, I arrived at each meeting with a head start, able to anticipate objections and offer tailored arguments.

This information was crucial. It allowed me not only to adapt my approach but also to build trust from the first exchanges.

Audrey didn't just execute her tasks rigorously; she went far beyond.

She constantly sought to optimize our approaches, spotting the slightest opportunities for adjustment.

Her confidence, intuition, and ability to analyze power dynamics in a discussion impressed me.

I even ended up taking her to some of these negotiations. As I had imagined, exchanges became more fluid in her presence, and even the most demanding interlocutors seemed to yield to her charm. With her, I felt better equipped to successfully complete the new fundraising round.

That morning, as I was reviewing the new projections for Area Ventures, Audrey entered my office.

"Tristan, I've finished organizing your notes and drafted the specifications for the Australian branch. I find this project fascinating."

She paused, as if to give more weight to what would follow:

"After studying the opportunities and challenges of this new market, I think I can handle part of the implementation," she said confidently.

I frowned, surprised by her proposal.

"That's ambitious, Audrey. You've been here a short time, and this type of project requires much more extensive experience," I replied, trying to measure my words.

She smiled, full of confidence.

"I understand, but you've seen what I'm capable of.

My lack of experience can also be an asset: I'm open to new ideas and I know how to adapt.

Let me handle the first steps, like coordination with local teams and establishing initial business relationships.

You've seen how I've managed difficult clients.

I can bring that same dynamism to this project. "

She wasn't wrong. Audrey had proven she could handle tense situations skillfully, but managing the development of a foreign branch was another matter entirely.

It required a deep understanding of the economic, legal, and cultural specificities of the country.

It was a project of a completely different scale.

I took a deep breath, thinking about the work overload that had weighed on me since the Extraordinary General Assembly.

I needed to delegate more effectively. Eva, with whom I had planned to work on this project, was already overwhelmed between her responsibilities and the Hope Project.

Audrey, despite her lack of experience, had this fresh energy that could bring new life to the team.

"Listen, you've proven your skills, but this project is too vast for you to take on alone," I said, quickly flipping through the file she had just placed.

"Here's what I propose: you'll handle the coordination with local teams and initial exchanges with our partners on-site.

I'll assign an experienced project director to support you, and we'll see how you do. "

Audrey looked at me, a satisfied gleam in her eyes.

"Thank you, Tristan. I'm sure I can do it. I'll do everything to steer this project in the right direction."

I nodded. Her enthusiasm was contagious. Even while remaining cautious, I knew she deserved her chance. She was competent, ambitious, and ready to invest herself. With her energy, she could really make a difference in such a demanding market.

"But remember, Audrey, if you encounter the slightest difficulty, come see me immediately," I added, more serious.

She nodded with a radiant smile.

"Count on me, Tristan. I won't disappoint you."

I watched her leave the room, torn between confidence and apprehension.

Her motivation and ability to learn quickly compensated for her lack of experience.

By entrusting her with part of the project under supervision, I was taking a calculated risk.

The company needed new blood, that boldness that drives innovation.

I was trying to convince myself of that, anyway.