A Night to remember : Book 3

Chapter 13

**** Max****

I hung up and resume reading a report on my desk. I have so much to do : four reports to write, Josh sent me a list of items he needs researched, and I have a meeting with Winthrop Enterprises' shareholders, Financial advisers and their management team. This part of the meeting was a resolution of the merger.

Last week was the planning stage. Its the most complex part of the process. It entails analysis, an action plan and negotiations between both parties involved. For Gregory's sake and well-being, we promised this would be a smooth transition without disrupting the established balance of both companies. When it came down to talking about the contracts, Just talking !, a cold shiver went up my spine. That's when Gregory pulled me aside during the first meeting and emphasized the importance of this merger. What it means to him and his family.

No pressure right?

By signing such a contract, he is bestowing a piece of Kira's legacy into my care.  He is trusting me to succeed at this so that both companies can grow and expand as one.

"I want you to look at me, Max," he glanced over at me. 

"I am old. my heart is weak and at this point, I need to let go of my worries." he paused. I couldn't help feel  empathy for his helplessness . 

"It brings me great joy that you are my daughter's Knight in Shinning Armor. Her support."

I certainly did not feel that way at the moment. Keeping this secret from her was the worst and it was killing me.

"The only thing that will let me finally have peace and sleep...eternal sleep if it comes to that, is that....she is taken care of."

My chest twisted tightly. Painfully. "You'll never have to worry about that Gregory. She and our children are my life."

That statement could not be far from the truth and I made sure he understood that. His mouth softened into a smile.

"This isn't going to be easy. She is going to give you hell," he chuckled.

I sighed deeply. "I know, it's what i'm dreading." 

A brief moment of silence followed.

"How do you want to proceed?" he asked quietly. "How are you going to lessen the blow to give you time to explain this to her?" 

In all honesty, I don't think anything will lessen this blow.

She is losing her father!

"I'll tell her. I just need the right moment."

He agreed.

"In the meantime, I can send out a brief press release after everything is done, tell our respective companies during our next meeting. And hope the gossip doesn't get to her before I tell her."

"Mr. Chase?" the voice pulls me out of my thoughts. I look over at the phone and answer.

"Yes," 

"They are ready for you in the conference room."

"Thank you, I'm on my way."

I stand and gather all my things then head out to the meeting. We all file in and sit at our respective seats. Everyone settles in and the meeting begins; bringing us up to date from the last meeting that involved the signing of the letter of intent and appointing of advisers.