Page 86 of The Billionaire's Betrayal
"Hello, Eva.I know Tristan has a follow-up appointment at the hospital and that he hasn't returned yet...may I speak with you?"
Surprised by this unexpected visit, I remained speechless for a moment before stepping aside to let her in.
A slightly tense silence settled between us.I offered her tea, which she accepted, and we sat down with our steaming cups.She finally cleared her throat before speaking.
"Eva, a lot of things have happened lately, and I realize that I misjudged you.I owe you an apology."
I remained frozen, almost incredulous.Judith de La Tour was apologizing?It was so unexpected.
"I know I've been unfair to you, and I sincerely regret it," she continued."Please know that I've only ever wanted one thing: Tristan's happiness.And I've realized that without you, he is anything but happy.I promise that from now on, you won't have any complaints about me."
I could guess the effort this concession cost her.It took courage to admit one's wrongs, especially for a woman as proud as she was.Despite everything we had been through, Judith had just earned a bit of my respect.
"I appreciate your words, Mrs.de La Tour," I replied, touched despite myself by her words."I hope we can bury the hatchet."
She slowly nodded, a timid smile floating on her lips.
"Call me Judith."
I nodded slightly.Only time would tell if Judith would keep her word, but it was a step in the right direction.
***
I adjusted my outfit for the umpteenth time when Tristan gently approached and took me in his arms, easing my anxiety a bit.He placed a gentle kiss on my lips before looking into my eyes.
"Eva, you have no reason to be nervous.You've been COO for years; you know all the board members.They've always listened to you and trusted you, and that won't change," he said in a reassuring voice.
"Yes, but usually, you were with me.We've always been a team.Without you by my side, I feel like something's missing."
He held me a little tighter, his gaze full of assurance.
"It doesn't change your skills, Eva.I've seen the presentation; it's perfect.You're going to nail it, as always.I believe in you."
An emotional smile formed on my lips.
"Thank you," I said softly, touched by his support.
I took a deep breath and headed to the office.
The tension was palpable in the conference room.The board members, seated around the long table, exchanged worried glances.
"Thank you for coming today.These past weeks have been particularly turbulent, especially in Tristan's absence.But I want to reassure you: we've taken all necessary measures to stay on course."
All eyes converged on the large screen when I projected the presentation.
"As you can see, our financial performance remains stable.Several new projects are in negotiation, notably a strategic partnership with an emerging technology company that will significantly strengthen our market position."
"That's encouraging, Ms.Mercier," a board member intervened in a measured tone."Nevertheless, it's crucial that we can reassure investors about the stability and continuity of leadership, particularly during Tristan's extended absence."
I straightened up, aware that my response had to be flawless.
"I understand your concerns and don't underestimate the importance of stable leadership.Since Tristan's departure, we've been working in synergy with the management team to ensure seamless continuity.Tristan remains involved in every strategic decision, even remotely, and we ensure that each initiative aligns perfectly with our long-term vision."
Steve straightened up at the other end of the table.
"Eva has led the company with remarkable skill these past weeks.Her decisions, both thoughtful and strategic, have not only allowed Community Pilot to maintain its course but also to position itself for new opportunities.Her ability to manage this transition is, in my view, indisputable."
"And what about the fundraising?"asked another board member.
