As The Stars Aligned

Chapter 7

Novalie briskly made her way to the conference room, her thoughts racing like a freight train. As she reached for the doorknob, she silently implored, "Please, God, let this merger be a success." The weight of the situation bore down on her, and she knew that this meeting could shape the future of The Jones Enterprise.

Pausing outside the door, she closed her eyes for a brief moment, taking a deep breath to steady herself. She whispered softly to herself, "It's going to be okay. Just give them what they want to hear, and everything is going to be fine." With that, she opened the door, where representatives from TechTrove Solutions were seated around a large table.

"Ms. Jones, thank you for joining us," one of the representatives greeted her, extending a hand. Novalie shook his hand firmly and took her seat at the head of the table, projecting a confident and composed demeanor.

"No, it's my pleasure," she replied graciously, her voice steady. "So, what brings TechTrove Solutions by so early? I thought the meeting wasn't until 10:30." Novalie's curiosity was evident as she addressed the representatives from TechTrove.

"We thought that we couldn't just wait," the TechTrove representative replied, his tone measured. "The Jones Enterprise is steadily growing, and we would love to merge with you."

Novalie leaned forward, her interest piqued. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, so let's get to the specifics. What exactly are you proposing?"

The TechTrove representatives exchanged glances before one of them said, "We just want 50% of your company." Novalie did the calculations in her head and then returned her gaze to the representatives. "If I agree to give you 50%, what assurances can you provide regarding the continued success and growth of The Jones Enterprise within TechTrove Solutions?" She leaned forward, her business acumen shining through as she sought to secure the best possible terms for her company.

Before TechTrove could give their answer, the conference room door burst open, and Damien strode in, followed closely by Sarah. "I'm sorry, Mrs. Jones," Sarah began, a hint of frustration in her voice, "I tried telling him that you were already in a meeting, but he wouldn't listen."

Novalie looked at Damien, her heart skipping a beat as recognition flooded in. It was him—the enigmatic man she had danced with at the masquerade ball. The one she had seen on television the night before, removing his mask as he exited the event. She recalled their graceful movements on the dance floor, the mysterious connection that had sparked between them. It was as if destiny had brought them together, masked yet unmistakably drawn to each other.

"Thank you, Sarah," Novalie replied, her eyes still lingering on Damien. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the task at hand. The unexpected entrance of the man she had danced with at the masquerade ball had thrown her off balance, but she couldn't let it deter her from her responsibilities.

As Sarah retreated, Novalie turned her full attention back to the TechTrove representatives. Their proposal for a 50% stake in her company hung in the air, awaiting her response. Novalie knew she had to make a decision, one that would impact the future of The Jones Enterprise.

The weight of the situation bore down on her shoulders. She had worked tirelessly to build her company into what it was today, and relinquishing half of it was not a choice to be made lightly. Yet, she also recognized the potential benefits of such a merger and the opportunities it could bring for growth and innovation.

Novalie's mind raced as she considered the options before her, knowing that this pivotal moment would shape the course of her business and, quite possibly, her personal life as well.

"I have a proposal," Damien said, taking a seat at the conference table. His presence commanded attention, and all eyes turned toward him. Novalie watched him closely, her curiosity mixed with a hint of apprehension.