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We both look up as the rest of the group return and take a seat.
The attorneys start the negotiations again.
Finally, Alex turns to Carson and nods. “I think we’re close to being ready to sign.”
Carson looks over at Suzanne, “Do you think we could have the contract updated with the changes by one o’clock?”
“Yes, that shouldn’t be a problem.”
Carson looks around the room. “Let’s break for lunch and meet back here at one o’clock to sign the contract.”
“That sounds good.” Alex stands and leaves the room. Serena looks over at Val. “Did you want to grab lunch, Val?”
Val looks over at me. “Chase, are you going to try to get some sleep?”
“As much as I would love to join you, I think I need the shut-eye. I don’t have to be here to sign the paperwork. I just wanted to make sure it was a done deal.”
“Thank you, Chase, for being here. I appreciate it.”
I walk over to Val and give her a brief but thorough kiss. “I’ll see you tonight.”
“You don’t have to be at work?”
“No, I’ll be home when you get off work, and we can catch each other up on everything.”
Forty-One
Val
When Serena and I walk out of Knight Security a little after one o’clock, we both feel satisfied with the contract.
Serena looks over at me, “I think everything went very well. That was one of the smoothest negotiations I’ve dealt with. Both you and Carson were flexible and fair. I think both sides basically got what they wanted, leaving Carlucci Software in a very good position.”
“I’m glad the negotiation part is behind us. I can’t wait to tell the team we have a signed contract from a major buyer, and we’re ready to launch.”
We say our goodbyes, and then I drive to Carlucci’s.
When I enter my department, every single member of the team watches me walk in. I can tell they’ve all been waiting. I give a huge smile and then hold the signed papers up over my head like a trophy.
“We have a signed contract, and we’re ready for launch!”
There are hoops and hollers as everyone gives a cheer. Then comes a lot of backslapping and high-fives.
Ellen comes over. “So, are you nervous about convincing the board?”
“No. I have complete confidence in the team, and I know this software launch will be approved.”
“I wish I had your confidence. Are you completely ready for the board meeting tomorrow?”
“Almost. I wouldn’t mind going over all the numbers again. I would like to have the projected numbers in hard copy so we can give each board member a handout. I want them to have something not only to look at but to reference once the meeting is over.”
“I can put something together.”
We continue to fine-tune everything until it’s quitting time. I walk out with everyone else, and I can tell that the team is in high spirits, knowing we have a signed contract.
On the drive home, a tight knot of dread starts tightening in my stomach the closer I get to the house.
After I pull into the drive, I take a deep breath and then open my car door.
