KATE
It is a bright and sunny Monday morning, just the right one for sealing business deals but apparently my dummy of a brother doesn't think so as he was supposed to have been here about 20 minutes ago to seal off this business deal that we've been canvassing for a long time but he is nowhere to be found.
"Where is Mr Liam? Is he not coming?" Our potential business partners as well as some of the board members had started asking questions and the look on their faces wasn't that of delight.
"Mr Liam is on his way please exercise some little more patience," his secretary tried to calm them down but we both knew that was a lie.
Liam is nowhere near coming.
He knows how important this is for the company. How can he mess this up?
I just know he is somewhere with who knows who doing who knows what? He always does this. Satisfying his sick cravings at the wrong time and leaving me to always clean up his mess. I wish I could just leave him to face the consequences of his foolishness but I can't just let all the effort I have put into this for months go down the drain just like that.
I had to do something and I had to do it fast.
Stepping forward. "Sorry everyone something came up and I am afraid my brother won't be able to make it on time but he has asked me to stand in his place," I said calmly making sure my confidence could be felt by all who were there however their faces was clearly showing their disapproval there were even little side talks here and there.
I am sure they didn't think I am capable enough because of my age and most especially because I am a female. However I was determined to prove all of them wrong!
I took a deep breath, scanning the room filled with skeptical faces. The boardroom was sleek and intimidating, but I wouldn't let that deter me. "I appreciate your patience," I began, projecting my voice with authority. "While Liam is unable to join us, I believe I can convey our vision effectively."
I launched into the proposal, highlighting the innovative strategies we'd developed over the past few months. "As you all know, our market analysis indicates a significant gap in sustainable solutions. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we can not only meet consumer demand but also position ourselves as industry leaders."
I glanced at the faces around the table, watching for any signs of interest. A few were taking notes; others exchanged glances. Encouraged, I continued. "Our projected growth rates are promising. By implementing our new framework, we can achieve a 30% increase in revenue over the next fiscal year. This is not just a proposal; it's a path to transform our company."
I paused, allowing the numbers to sink in. "I know the risks seem daunting, but our detailed risk assessment shows that the potential rewards far outweigh them. We've done our homework, and the data speaks for itself."
Questions began to surface, some challenging, but I welcomed them. Each response was met with confidence, addressing concerns about logistics and resource allocation with precise solutions. The atmosphere shifted as I noticed their skepticism fading.
Finally, I concluded, "This isn't just about profit; it's about setting a standard in our industry. I'm committed to seeing this through, and I invite you all to join me on this journey. Together, we can redefine what's possible."
A moment of silence followed, and then the CEO of the partnering company nodded slowly, a spark of intrigue in his eyes. "You've certainly given us something to think about. I appreciate your initiative." The murmurs of agreement around the table grew louder.
With the final votes tallied, we sealed the deal. One by one, they offered their hands, smiles breaking across their faces, some even acknowledging the strength of my pitch with newfound respect. I couldn't help but feel a rush of triumph.
A sense of accomplishment and pride surged through me for taking charge of the meeting. The once skeptical faces were me woo at my knowledge and delivery. If only they knew that I have been the one doing the underground work all along and my brother is what you can call a figurehead. All the ideas pitched to them were purely mine but since it's for the greater good, I don't mind not being given the credit. Running the company is my passion and I put my energy into it. Not necessarily because of the money or the fame but it is what makes me happy. However I won't deny it does feel good receiving the credit.
As soon as the meeting came to an end, I went to my office. I was about to relax and enjoy my peace when my brother suddenly peeped into my office.
"Hello there little sis," he said smoothly with no atom of worries at all as he leaned confidently on the frame of the door.
Immediately my face folded into a frown. "And where have you been?"
"Around. Anything?" He replied with a raspy voice as he walked in.
He is really clueless isn't he?
My gaze narrowed at him and that's when I noticed a smudge of lipstick on his neck. Just as I had thought. He was with a lady while he was supposed to finalize a deal!
My brother is never going to change with this frivolity. I hope he understands that it's not good for business.
"Liam. Don't tell me you forgot all about the Magpie solutions meeting today?" I frowned.
"You were supposed to be here as the leading representative. Why didn't you show up? What were you doing? I tried to calm my voice and not sound agitated or angry though I am.
"True! Where's everyone? How did it go? ?" He suddenly remembered and i just frowned at him
"You smashed it right? I knew you could do it," he added playfully.
Sighing. "Tell me, why didn't you show up? You know what's at stake. You know how important this was. So why weren't you here?" I asked even though I know the reason but I just wanted to hear it from his mouth.
"Err I had some important business to handle," he said with a guilty smile and I raised my brows.
"Does that business involve getting lipstick on your neck?"
He rubbed his neck and smiled like a child caught stealing candy.
"Business is business," he said playfully.
"Whatever happened to business before pleasure, huh?" I frowned but his funny, carefree expression just made me want to laugh
"Heyyy. Pleasure business is important business", he said breathily leaning over the desk
"Whatever,"I rolled my eyes instead.
"We need you back here. I just hope your business partner doesn't get you in trouble one of these days. Just imagine if dad was around?"
"Relax girl. I knew dad wasn't going to be around and I never doubted your capabilities one bit. My speech and business proposal were all done by you! So you see I knew everything was under control," he said with a charming smile, hoping to sweet talk me.
It worked as I blushed a bit, feeling proud of myself but I tried my best to not show any emotion.
"They were skeptical about letting me handle it, you know? They want you, not me." I said with a little seriousness.
"Please tell your secretary to send me the details of the meeting. I'll see you around. Good job today!" He said with a wink and left and I sigh.
Such a character!
Reaching for my car keys on the table. I picked up and left the office as well…
Some administrative members were still hanging around the corridor chit chatting. I knew there was no escaping this, I would have to join the conversation.
"Here she is! The star of the show," one of them said, beckoning me over. It was Mr Hart, one of the senior directors. He was standing with Mrs Joanne and Sir Kingston.
"I was only doing my job,"I said modestly with a smile.
"Yeah, and you're very great at it," Sir Kingston chipped in.
"In no time, we'll see you at the forefront of this organization, taking the full reins of authority," Mr Hart said playfully.
"Oh Mr Hart, I'm doing great where I am. As long as my impact is felt, I don't mind working in the background," I said, but do I truly believe that myself?
"Oh don't be so modest. If you're given such authority, you should own it. Don't worry, it will come to you in due time," Mrs Joanne said, fueling my desire to dream big.
I appreciated their concern for the company and I can't lie having a higher position would be great but I didn't want any form of power struggle between myself and Liam. So I guess, I'm perfect where I am.
"How's Eliane, your daughter? I haven't heard from her in a while," said, changing the topic of the conversation from myself to other things.
"She's doing very well. She won a scholarship to study in Harvard University", Sir Kingston replied, proudly.
"Oh that's beautiful. Congratulations to you both. Please do tell her to call me, we have a lot of catching up to do," I said with a smile.
"Sure, I will."
Glancing at my wristwatch. "Well gentlemen and lady, if you don't mind, I gotta run. Busy day," I said, giving each of them a farewell handshake.
"Alright ma'am," Mrs Joanne said.
I turned around and walked away.