'Lucas' took one final look at himself in front of the mirror. He wore a plain black suit, charcoal gray shirt and black oxford shoes. His hair was slicked back. The only color in his whole outfit was his sparkling blue eyes. He smirked, it was time to open the floodgates. He left his house and headed to the Grand Convention Center where the business expo was being held. ' I can't wait to see the look on his face when I announce this' he thought as he looked out the car window. This was going to be good.
The Grand Convention Center was called grand for a reason. It was the largest commercial building in the capital. It was a medium sized skyscraper with a combination of circular and square shaped floors that seemed to make it stand out. It had large open rooms that could play host to over a hundred thousand people and still have enough space for tables and chairs. Due to this, it had large floor to ceiling windows on almost all its outer walls. It had the best facilities for hosting large conferences. This was precisely why 'Lucas' had worked hard to book the whole building. That and the fact that it was close to major media houses as well.
Sitting in the VIP area watching the Finance Minister giving his speech, 'Lucas' was worried. Would he pull it off? he wondered but it was too late. He couldn't run away even if he wanted to . "Please allow me to welcome this years host Lucas Decker," said the Finance Minister prompting 'Lucas' to stand up and head to the podium. 'Ah fuck it let's go' he swore as he shook hands with the minister amid claps and cheers.
'Lucas' waited until the clapping died out and adjusted his microphone. It was time to begin.
He cleared his throat and began," All protocols observed, distinguished guests I welcome you all to this year's convention. This year's theme "The future today" was chosen in line with the rapid growth of technology and business and the increased use of e-commerce to mainstream business. This rapid increase has created a relatively new niche in the business world. It has created new business ventures that I believe is a snippet of how the future will be, online only.
However, this can have both positive and negative effects in the business. This expo is going to mainly focus on this and, as we discuss this over the next three days, lets keep an open mind and come together in providing opportunities for growth and expansion in equal measure". He paused. Everyone clapped. Lucas' breathed in sharply. When the clapping died down, he continued. " I wanted to open this expo on a light note." They smiled. " Its been quite taxing and exhausting to plan for this expo. I had assumed it was pretty simple. Get venue, invite participants and find caterers and that's it. At least that's what I thought. Boy was I wrong." He stopped as everyone laughed. He continued," It has taken a toll on me both physically and emotionally. I haven't seen my fiancée in over two weeks. I bet she's been wondering," Is it going be like this all the time? Is he marrying me or am I coming in between an already established marriage"? " Everyone laughed again. Melanie shifted uncomfortably in her seat, she hadn't expected to be in the spotlight.
'Lucas' tone changed to a serious one. " With that, I came to a conclusion." He paused for effect. " I Lucas Decker hereby resign as the CEO of the Decker Group as well as withdraw myself as the host of this expo. However, I leave you in the very capable hands of my brother Jake Decker please help me in welcoming him onto the stage. "
For a moment, no one moved. Surprised, Jake jumped onto the podium and took 'Lucas' hand in greeting. He leaned into his ear," What the fucking hell do you think you're doing"? he asked angrily. To which 'Lucas' replied," What I should have done years ago", in the same angry tone. He pulled away and loudly said," I leave you in good hands", he clapped and stepped down from the podium. He went towards Melanie, hugged her and grabbed her hand. They walked out of the expo.
* * *
Lucas, who had been watching the expo live, smiled happily. This had turned out to be better than expected. The confused faces as well making it to the top trending story online was enough for him. It was time to make them pay.