Entwined Destinies

Chapter 9: The Conflict

"The reason I called this meeting is to inform all stakeholders that Ratanapong Luxe Holdings will be entering a joint venture with Sukprasit Co. Ltd."

"Huh?" The room erupted into murmurs, the surprise palpable at Lingling's announcement.

Milk, one of the directors, was visibly taken aback. "Khun Ling, shouldn't this decision have been discussed with the stakeholders first?"

Another voice from the back chimed in, "Are we facing financial difficulties for you to make such a move?"

Lingling shook her head, crossing her arms confidently. "No, we are not. And as the owner of this company, I am not required to seek permission from the stakeholders to proceed with a joint venture."

Milk stood up, her voice steady but clearly filled with concern. "I understand you are the owner, but transparency and collaboration with the stakeholders is crucial for maintaining trust, Khun Ling."

Lingling's eyes flickered with determination as she responded, "I appreciate your concern, N'Milk, but this is a strategic move. Ratanapong Luxe Holdings will benefit from the partnership with Sukprasit Co. Ltd. Our position in the luxury market will strengthen, and this alliance will provide us access to resources we currently lack."

The murmuring grew louder, and one of the other directors spoke up, "But Sukprasit Co. Ltd.? Aren't they known for being ruthless in negotiations? What makes you think this joint venture won't end up harming us in the long run?"

Lingling's gaze remained firm. "This decision wasn't made lightly. I've carefully assessed the benefits and risks. Sukprasit Co. Ltd. has an international supply chain and a wealth of expertise in expanding into new markets, something we need to push Ratanapong Luxe Holdings to the next level."

Milk, still standing, shot a look at Lingling, her expression softening slightly. "I trust you, P'Ling, but I'm concerned about the potential backlash from shareholders. This is a bold move. Are you prepared for the consequences if they don't support it?"

Lingling's expression faltered for just a moment, but she quickly regained her composure. "I am prepared. This isn't just about today, it's about the future. I'll be having meeting with the shareholders next week to explain the full strategy and how we'll safeguard Ratanapong's interests, beside you and me are the biggest shareholder."

Milk nodded, but the tension in the room lingered, thick like the air before a storm. After the meeting, unable to shake her unease, she stormed into Lingling's office, shutting the door firmly behind her.

"Why?" Milk's voice trembled slightly, a mix of confusion and frustration clear in her tone.

Lingling barely looked up, her eyes cold and distant. "Why not?" she said, her arms crossed defensively. "I'm part of the Sukprasit family now after marrying Orm. This joint venture makes sense. We're aligning our family legacies."

Milk stared at her, incredulous, her hands on her hips. "Aligning our legacies? P'Ling, for two months, I ran this company on my own. No guidance, no support from you. I've been doing everything, and now you drop this bombshell without even consulting me—or anyone else for that matter?"

Lingling's gaze sharpened, her irritation rising. "I'm back now, aren't I? I don't owe anyone an explanation for what I do with my company. I've thought this through."

Milk's frustration deepened. She couldn't understand what was happening with her sister. "That's not the point, P'Ling. You disappeared for months, and now you come back with a decision like this, without even considering how it affects us? It's reckless."

Lingling stood, the tension in her posture mirroring her emotions. "Reckless? You think I haven't considered every angle? I didn't need anyone's approval. Least of all yours."