The Mystery of Us (You and Me Against the World)

Chapter Fourteen

A modern office with a large window overlooking the city skyline. The decor is sleek and professional, echoing David Anderson's status in the business world. The walls are adorned with awards and certificates, a testament to his achievements. The room has a faint hum from the air conditioning, creating a calm atmosphere despite the tension brewing within.

The O.S. sound of a door opening is heard. DAVID enters, his tie slightly loosened. He exudes an air of stress.

David mutters to himself.
"Another meeting's done, another one coming.. just great."

He hesitates before sinking into the executive swivel chair. He rests his elbows on the desk, running his fingers through his hair, looking overwhelmed. After a moment of silence, he leans back, staring at the ceiling.
"There has to be a way to convince them... I just need a fresh perspective."

After a brief pause, Kit enters the office, holding a tablet and a notepad. "Mr. Anderson. Just a reminder that your next appointment is at ten."

"Do you mind if I push it back, Kit? I'm not exactly in the best state to see anyone right now. Push it back to ten thirty." David's thinking of a new strategy.

"Is everything alright, Sir? You've been on edge since the meeting this morning," Kit says.

David sighs. "Oh, just the usual. Let's say my business partners in Rio are less than enthusiastic about our upcoming project."

"Do you need me to set up a call with them or...?," Kit suggested.

David interrupts.
" No, no...not yet. I think I need to sort this out myself first. Maybe... maybe it's time I talk to Ken." He pulls out his cellphone and dials a number.

A trendy restobar filled with the soft murmur of conversations and clinking dishes. The air is filled with the rich aroma of coffee and pastries. David and Ken sit at a small table outside, a bustling sidewalk scene behind them. Ken, dressed casually, but stylishly, leans back in his chair, observing David's tense demeanor.

Ken and David start eating while having a serious discussion.

"The partners in Rio are such a pain in the ass. They're not buying into the new strategy I proposed. They think the market is unstable, and they want to pull back investments," David tells Ken.

Ken's being understandably concern, given the state of things. "But what's your angle?"

David responds. "I'm considering pushing for a more aggressive tactic. Maybe expand our portfolio while the market dips. Build up our assets now and ride the wave when things get better."

Ken raises an eyebrow. "It's a bold move.
Are you prepared for the fallout if it backfires?"

David shrugs, looking contemplative.
"What other choice do I have? Letting them back away means losing everything we've built there. I can't let that happen."

"You could frame it differently. Instead of pushing them to invest more, how about showcasing what could happen if they don't? You can always drag Jade into the picture, right?" Ken gives out his opinion.

David furrows his eyebrows. "You mean... like a worst-case scenario?...The thing is Jade doesn't want to be involve, he doesn't want to take the risk. You know Campbell sometimes can be very extra cautious."