The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

"Dad, can you believe Mr. Pearce is actually willing to transfer twenty percent of his shares?

Back when we tried to buy just ten percent, he wouldn't budge-no matter what we offered. He even played the nostalgia card, reminding us how he once helped Mom, hoping to guilt us out of pushing through the acquisition.

But now-now he's ready to sell to Stella without a second thought."

Skyler watched as Shawn's father disappeared down the corridor, his voice calm and measured. "The Pearce family is only accepting Star's offer because they've got their eye on those cutting-edge tech companies she controls. Sure, the Pearce stock isn't quite on par with ours, but that twenty percent is nothing to sneeze at. Not many people could even dream of affording it.

And I don't believe for a second that Star has access to that much cash.

My guess? She'll end up coming to us for help."

Even when the Williams family wanted to acquire a company, it took at least a year to free up enough capital. Their business might be worth billions, but actual liquid assets were always tight.

A smart businessperson knows how to invest wisely. Only regular folks park their money in the bank and collect interest.

Jonathan's eyes brightened. "If Stella does ask us for help, could we use the chance to buy some of her original shares in Star?"

Skyler fixed Jonathan with a steady look, his gaze deep and unreadable. "Jonathan, you and I both know how valuable those original shares are. Do you really think Star doesn't understand that, too?

she never would've joined the Williams

her shoes-would you hand over something that

expression tightened. He had no

"If you understand this, why assume Star doesn't? Besides, whatever we offer her,

After all, if you're going to give something away, why not keep it in the family? But just as the words reached his lips, he realized what Skyler was getting

reminding him that their intentions

to a pack of relatives clearly itching to snatch it up Jonathan hesitated, then asked, "If she comes tous for a loan but doesn't want to trade her shares, what

no small amount-most likely, they'd have to transfer funds

was willing to trade her original shares, that would be

just wanted to borrow the money without giving up anything? No

དེ

Jonathan, when

covet

don't mean

we refuse to negoci

altogether.

s