Page 98 of Emergence and Ascendance

"Two days. He's trying to make sure I don't have time to defend myself."

"You know how he operates and you need to be here, Scot. In person. This isn't something you can do on the phone."

I rubbed my temples, mentally working through the logistics. "I know. I'll fly back tomorrow night. I have to prepare my arguments."

"Yeah, you do. Don't think that just because it's you, he'll go easy."

I laughed arrogantly. "He's going to go in guns blazing because it's me. I'm going against him. He's going to be pissed because it makes him look bad."

"At least you know what you're dealing with."

"I do." I sigh.

"James forwarded me that market analysis you requested. I'll send it over with my notes in an hour."

Last night, while Christian made us dinner, I worked on this trainwreck my father had created with James. He immediately got to work, and I was grateful for having him on my side, but nothing was better than knowing Alex always had my back, even during the times he didn't fully believe I was making the best decisions. "Thanks, Alex. I really appreciate you."

"You know I got you, Scot. Always. Oh, and Dad sent Justin to feel you out? What the fuck?"

"How do you know that?"

"I heard Dad on the phone with him right before I called you about the board meeting but didn't catch the entire call. I asked what was going on and he brushed it off. I didn't think about it till later."

"Yeah, he called last night and tried to convince me to bring the project under Whitney International's umbrella. Claimed he was looking out for me."

Alex snorted. "Dad's really on some bullshit with this. Want me to handle Justin? I could make his life very fucking difficult."

I smiled. "No. I handled him. I made it very clear that I wasn't interested in his help or anything else he might be offering."

"You sure? Because I've been looking for an excuse to fuck with him."

After he tried to use me to sleep his way into our family connections…

"I'm sure. Justin's not worth the effort and he was just following orders. We both know who the real problem is."

Our father…

"Yeah we do."

"I need to focus on preparing for Thursday. This is my baby, Alex. I'm not giving it up."

"You shouldn't have to and you won't. You've got this. Your numbers are solid and the development plan is on point. Whether he likes it or not, Dad will have to acknowledge that."

I sighed. "From your lips to God's ears, but thank you."

"Always. Just promise me you'll have your shit together with this. Dad's really on one."

"I will. I'll see you Thursday."

"You want me to pick you up from the airport or send a car?"

"Not sure yet. I'm going to figure out my flight plan. I don't want to use the company jet or he'll know I'm coming."

"I'll charter one for you."

"You don't have to. I'll work something out."

"You sure?"

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