Just then, a message popped up. But it wasn’t from Bryson.
Edwin’s profile picture appeared after a moment’s delay.
“Hannah, the Garza family approached me today. They’re interested in a major collaboration.”
He sent over a detailed business proposal and contract.
“I’m smelling a rat, though. Hannah, can you look into this? The Garzas have never dabbled in tech before. Why the sudden interest in partnering with us? And if they’re scouting for partners, Layne’s company is the top dog in the industry. Why come to us?”
With no response from Hannah, Edwin continued typing.
“These aren’t just minor concerns. The Garzas and the Whites aren’t exactly friends, especially with the whole Jenny mess. Why the sudden love for collaboration? Do you see any hidden daggers in the deal?”
Hannah didn’t exit the office app until she’d pored over every detail of the proposal and contract. Then, she spotted Edwin’s messages.
“Hannah, when are you coming back? The company’s floundering without you. I feel utterly useless. I could cry right now. I’m not supposed to pressure you, and I know you’re swamped overseas. But I’m getting a bad vibe about this Garza deal. I’m really freaking out.”
While the contract and proposal seemed legit, Hannah couldn’t shake off the history between the Garza family and her mother. And with the Garzas linked to a past incident of hers, she couldn’t trust their sudden interest in collaboration with the Whites.
After careful consideration, Hannah punched in Edwin’s number.
The call connected with swift efficiency. “Hannah! At last, you’ve found a moment to reach out.”
“I’ve read through your messages. No red flags in the contract or the business plan,” Hannah stated calmly.
“What?” Edwin hesitated on the other end. “So, should we proceed with them?”
‘s
Hannah detected the tinge of uncertainty in Edwin’s voice. “They’ve already drawn up the contract. Why wasn’t I informed sooner?”
Books Chapters Are Daily Updated Join & Stay Updated for All Books Updates…
Edwin sounded resigned. “Dexter and Bryan jumped the gun, only letting us know a few days ago. Thankfully, we halted them before they sealed the deal.”
“Dexter and Bryan?”
Hannah raised an eyebrow, realizing how out of the Loop she’d become during her time abroad.
This only solidified her suspicion of the Garza family’s ulterior motives. “If the Garza clan genuinely intended to partner with us, they would’ve approached you directly. Instead, they relied on those two incompetent fools. Clearly, something’s amiss.”
“So, should I reject the contract?”
Noticing the Garza family’s representative was Merlin, Hannah probed further. “Who did the Garzas send for negotiations? Have you met them?”
“No, not yet. The contract remains unsigned, and frankly, I’m reluctant to proceed without more insight into their intentions.”
“Arrange a meeting with their representative. Gauge their motives.
Offer concessions if needed. The contract stands, but delay signing.