Page 14 of Clock Strikes Paradise

“Perhaps she's simply a skilled negotiator,” I suggested, though I understood Bart's reservations. Celeste's warmth and charisma were disarming, a stark contrast to Laurent's aloof arrogance.

“Maybe,” Bart conceded. “But I still think we need to proceed with caution. We can't let her charm us into accepting a lowball offer.”

“Agreed,” I said, nodding. “Elise, make a note to verify TechWeb's financial statements. I want to be absolutely certain their numbers are solid.”

“Already on it,” Elise said, her fingers flying across the keyboard of her laptop. “I've also requesteda detailed breakdown of their projected revenue over the next five years. I should have that information by this evening.”

“Good,” I said. Elise’s ability to anticipate my needs was one of the things that made her such a valuable asset.

“One more thing,” Elise added, her dark blue eyes meeting mine over the rim of her glasses. “Should we anticipate any counteroffers from either party during dinner tonight?”

“It's possible,” I replied. “We need to be prepared to respond strategically. Bart, I want you to focus on the financial details. I will handle the negotiation tactics and the overall flow of the conversation. Elise, you jump in if you feel the conversation needs a nudge.”

“Understood,” Bart said, nodding curtly.

“Yes, sir,” Elise added.

I took a sip of the cucumber water, the cool liquid refreshing against my palate. The weight of responsibility for this deal was a constant companion, but I thrived on pressure.

Bart and I continued to dissect each element of the two proposals, exploring various scenarios and mapping out our responses. Elise remained attentive, diligently noting our every word.

“Laurent mentioned his interest in expanding Podium into the European market,” Bart said, tapping his finger on a page of his notes. “We might leverage that ambition during the negotiation.”

“Yes. We could—” Elise’s eyes flashed with surprise as her words stopped.

“Could what?” I prompted.

A delicate flush danced across her face. It made me wonder if her skin would feel warmer there. “I’m sorry,” shecontinued. “I got caught up in the excitement. It’s not my place to interject.”

Bart’s lips lifted into a hint of a sneer, which pissed me off. “I’d like to hear what you have to say.”

“Oh. Well, I was just thinking that you could counter by highlighting the potential challenges of such an expansion. And that Celeste’s offer eliminates the need for approvals due to foreign ownership simply because TechWeb is a US company. Laurent might need to be reminded that it's not as simple as replicating Podium's success in a new territory.”

“Excellent point,” I said, intrigued by her strategic thinking.

She quickly took a gulp of water. “Thank you.”

Even Bart looked a little impressed.

Sensing she was still flummoxed, I refrained from pointing out that Laurent’s extensive experience with sports and diverse multinational businesses would make for a rather seamless transition. “Don’t be afraid to speak up. You’re part of the team here.”

When she glanced up from her water and met my eyes, I forgot to breathe for a moment as our gazes held. The sight of her in that swimsuit this morning flashed through my brain before I could get a grip on my runaway mind. Wrenching my eyes away, I brought up the next report on my laptop.

The remainder of our meeting passed quickly. We analyzed current market trends, debated legal complexities, and brainstormed ways to maximize Podium's value. Elise ensured every detail was meticulously documented. As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the meeting room, I felt a sense of satisfaction. We were prepared.

Ileaned back in my chair, flexing my shoulders to ease the tension that had settled there. “Good work,” I said, my gaze sweeping over Bart and Elise. “We've covered a lot of ground today.”

“Indeed,” Bart agreed. “We’ve got all our bases covered, and I have a feeling we’re about to hit a home run with this sale.”

“I hope you both managed to take some time to enjoy yourselves this afternoon,” I said, the words leaving my mouth before I could stop them. I blinked, surprised at my own question. I rarely inquired about the personal lives of my employees, but the words seemed to hang in the air, demanding an answer.

“I did,” Bart replied easily. “Took a walk along the perimeter path. It goes all around the island. Got in some exercise and enjoyed the view. This place is pretty spectacular, even for someone who’s more of a city guy.”

“I spent some time at the pool. Also, I attended a yoga class yesterday at a studio I came across, Calypso Calm.” Elise’s gaze met mine briefly, a tentative smile on her lips. “It was… surprisingly relaxing. A great way to let go of stress.”

Just the thought of contorting into all those positions nearly made me shudder with distaste. Nate, of all people, had told me he enjoyed yoga. I couldn’t fathom any of it. “I find pressure brings out my best work,” I replied, my voice clipped and professional. “I have no need to relieve stress.”

Elise’s smile faltered, and she straightened her belongings absently, her gaze fixed on her closed computer. A sudden awkward silence settled over the room, and what I’d just said came back to me. I’d just reinforced the image of a cold, unfeeling CEO.