Chapter 16: Battlefield
363words
"Ready?" Jack asked as our car pulled up to the entrance.
I adjusted my designer suit—armor for the battle ahead. "Born ready."
The receptionist smiled professionally. "Mr. and Mrs. Thompson? Mr. Davis is expecting you."
The executive floor buzzed with activity. As we walked the corridor, I fought waves of déjà vu. How many times had I walked these halls as Rachel Williams, invisible and underestimated?
Michael rose from behind my father's desk, his smile predatory. "Thompson! And the lovely Mrs. Thompson. Please, sit."
"Where's Mia today?" I asked innocently. "Executive partners usually attend these meetings, don't they?"
Something flickered in Michael's eyes. "Ms. Brown is handling other aspects of the acquisition."
Jack smoothly steered the conversation to business. "We're interested in acquiring a significant stake in Williams before your takeover completes."
Michael's eyebrows rose. "Bold move. Why?"
"The tech integration possibilities are compelling," Jack replied. "And my wife has a particular interest in family-founded businesses."
"Is that so?" Michael turned his attention to me. "What specifically interests you, Mrs. Thompson?"
"Legacy," I answered, holding his gaze. "How quickly it can be built—or destroyed. I find it fascinating how vulnerable even the strongest companies become when leadership changes hands."
A flicker of unease crossed Michael's face. "Williams has been mismanaged since the founder's health declined. I'm simply... correcting course."
"Of course," I smiled coldly. "Nothing personal, just business. Right?"
The meeting concluded with tentative agreements for further discussions. As we prepared to leave, Michael touched my arm.
"Perhaps you'd join me for lunch sometime? Without our spouses. I could share insights about Williams that might... interest you."
Jack tensed beside me, but I maintained my composure. "I'd be delighted. I have so many questions about the company's recent history."
In the elevator, Jack finally spoke. "He's hitting on you."
"I know."
"And you're encouraging it."
I turned to face him, my expression resolute. "I'll use whatever advantage I have. Isn't that what you taught me?"
The doors opened, and I stepped out first, leaving Jack to follow in troubled silence.
