Ken Richmond paced back and forth in his study, the news of Michaelson's visit to the Westbrook Corporation gnawing at him. The large mahogany desk in front of him was covered with papers, and a glass of whiskey sat untouched beside a lamp that cast a dim, golden glow. Ken's stern face was set in deep lines of frustration as he picked up his phone and called his daughter.
"Hannah, come to my study immediately," he said curtly before hanging up.
A few moments later, Hannah entered the room. She was dressed elegantly, her classy outfit of a fitted navy dress and heels exuding sophistication. Her dark hair was styled perfectly, and her makeup was subtle but flawless. Despite her poised appearance, there was a hint of worry in her eyes as she approached her father.
"You called, Father?" she asked, her voice calm and measured.
Ken turned to face her, his expression stern. "Yes, I did. I just received some rather unsettling news. Michaelson visited the Westbrook Corporation today."
Hannah's eyes widened slightly in surprise, but she quickly composed herself. "I see. That wasn't expected."
"No, it wasn't," Ken replied, his tone sharp. "You told me you were working on getting close to Michaelson. What happened?"
Hannah took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully. "Father, I've been trying to establish a connection with Michaelson. We've met on a few occasions, and there's definitely a spark. But these things take time. He's a very guarded man."
Ken's eyes narrowed, and he leaned forward on his desk. "Time is a luxury we don't have, Hannah. The Westbrooks are already ahead of us. If Michaelson chooses to partner with them, our plans could be severely compromised."
"I understand, Father," Hannah said, her voice steady. "But I believe in being strategic. Forcing the issue could push him away. We need to be patient and play our cards right."
Ken let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through his graying hair. "Patience is one thing, but losing him to the Westbrooks is another. What is your plan, Hannah? How do you intend to win him over?"
Hannah straightened her shoulders, her eyes meeting her father's with determination. "I've been considering hosting a private dinner party, something intimate and exclusive. It will give me the opportunity to spend more time with Michaelson, away from the public eye. I'll make sure he sees the value in partnering with us over the Westbrooks."
Ken studied his daughter for a moment, then nodded slowly. "A private dinner party... That could work. Make sure it's perfect, Hannah. This is too important to leave to chance."
"Of course, Father," Hannah replied, a confident smile on her lips. "I'll make all the necessary arrangements. Michaelson will see that we're the better choice."
Ken's stern expression softened slightly, and he reached out to place a hand on her shoulder. "I trust you, Hannah. Don't let me down."
Hannah nodded, the weight of her father's expectations heavy on her shoulders. As she left the study, her mind raced with plans and ideas. She knew she had to act quickly and decisively. The stakes were high, and failure was not an option.
As she closed the door behind her, Hannah's expression hardened with resolve. She would win Michaelson over, no matter what it took. The future of the Richmond family depended on it.