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Chapter 83 Strategic Investment For Mutual Success

83 Strategic Investment For Mutual Success

Wang paced in the office, wondering when its owner would arrive. He was dressed impeccably but even the blind could tell that something was on his mind.

He moved, unable to sit still and after a few more seconds of pacing, he unbuttoned the collar of his shirt and loosened his tie.

The tie had felt like a noose around his neck and honestly, the ultimatum he'd been given had been feeling like an actual noose.

That was also what had driven him here today. He couldn't afford to lose everything he'd built with his own two hands.

His AI, PathFinder, had once been hailed globally as revolutionary and now, it was the subject of public ridicule, mocked for its bias and manipulation. The same bias and manipulation he'd been forced to add by the investors.

Now, they were knocking on his door with a command to sell. The journalists were circling like vultures to carrion and his rivals smelled blood in the water.

He couldn't afford another loss.

He looked at the nameplate on the desk. He was currently waiting for Marcus Hale, Eidolon's Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships.

Whatever Nico was doing was working because with the pressure on, this was the best he could come up with. Luckily, he'd done his research.

Marcus had a reputation for being pragmatic, practical to the point of ruthlessness. Wang was sure the man could be swayed.

The door to the office swung open and Marcus walked in.

Tall with graying hair and blue eyes that looked like they knew all secrets to ever exist, Marcus had the kind of calm authority that made most people sit up straighter in his presence.

But Wang was not like most people. He turned to meet Marcus with a smile on his face and an extended hand.

"Mr. Hale, thank you for meeting me so late."

Marcus shook his hand but didn't smile. "Your message seemed... urgent."

Wang nodded, taking a seat before Marcus even offered. The senior executive raised an eyebrow at the lack of decorum but said nothing, settling into his leather chair across the desk.

Wang leaned forward, keeping his voice low and conspiratorial. "Let me get straight to the point. I believe you and I can help each other."

Marcus steepled his fingers, keeping his expression neutral. "Go on."

Wang took a deep breath. Time to convince the keyholder.

"As you know, Eidolon Interactive is at a crossroads with its latest venture. The partnership between PathFinder and your gaming ecosystem could transform both industries."

Wang opened his mouth to defend himself but Marcus wasn't finished.

"Your reputation is already in tatters because of the PathFinder scandal. And now, you think adding corporate espionage to the mix will help your case? Let me give you some free advice."

The man held Wang's gaze, making sure he was listening attentively. "Go back to fixing your product instead of trying to undermine your competition, Wang."

Wang gritted his teeth in a mixture of anger and humiliation. Was this not the same man who had accepted bribes for a few deals? He'd heard from a reputable source. "You don't understand-"

"What I understand," Marcus said coldly, "is that this conversation is over."

Wang's hand twitched toward the envelope but Marcus's glare stopped him. Slowly, Wang stood, straightening his jacket and forcing himself to maintain a shred of dignity.

"You're making a mistake." He said, his voice trembling with barely suppressed rage.

Marcus didn't respond. He simply pressed a button on his desk, summoning his assistant. A moment later, the door opened and a young woman stepped in.

"Please show Mr. Wang out." Marcus said without looking at Wang.

The assistant nodded politely. "This way, Mr. Wang."

Wang hesitated for a moment before grabbing his briefcase and storming out of the office.

This had been a failure from the start. Nico had to have gotten to him before he did.

"Fuck you, Voss." He whispered under his breath. "This isn't over."

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Marcus Hale sat at his desk, staring at the envelope Wang had left behind. On another day, he would've accepted it and did what he did best but his luck had run out.

Kale had caught him.

He'd been able to keep his job but it came with a few added tasks.

With a regretful sigh, he picked up the envelope and tossed it into his shredder. The thin paper disappeared into ribbons.

He picked up his phone and dialed a number. After a few rings, a familiar voice answered.

"Justin Kale here."

"Justin, it's Marcus. We need to talk. It's about Walk Shop."