Kapitel 82: Preparations
"So what's next for work? A break or what?" Travis asked.
"A break is out of the question," I began, leaning against the kitchen counter, "the IPO roadshow is our chance to showcase the company's potential to potential investors. It's crucial for generating interest and securing funding for our upcoming projects."
Travis nodded thoughtfully, sipping his coffee. "Sounds like a big opportunity. How are you feeling about it?"
I shrugged, feeling a mixture of nerves and excitement. "It's definitely a lot of pressure, especially with everything that's been going on. But I know I need to stay focused and make the most of it."
Travis raised an eyebrow, looking concerned. "Are you sure you're ready for it? After last night…"
I cut him off with a determined nod. "I'll be fine. If anything, this whole ordeal has just made me more determined to succeed. I can't let anything or anyone hold me back."
Travis smiled, looking reassured. "That's the spirit. Just remember to take care of yourself, okay? Don't push yourself too hard."
I nodded gratefully, appreciating his concern. "Thanks, Travis. I'll keep that in mind."
"Maybe you should stay at Jasper's house until the roadshow starts."
"Good idea," I acknowledged, considering Travis's suggestion. "Being away from the chaos here might actually help me focus better."
Travis nodded in agreement. "Exactly. Plus, having Jasper around could provide some much-needed support."
I nodded, feeling a sense of relief at the thought of Jasper's presence. "Yeah, I think that's the best plan for now.
Facing the daunting task of leading the IPO roadshow, I felt a mixture of anxiety and frustration. It seemed unfair that Mr. Wallace had kept this information from me for so long, leaving me with limited time to prepare for such a critical presentation. The weight of responsibility as the CEO bore down on me, knowing that the success or failure of the roadshow could significantly impact the future of the company. Despite my lack of experience in public speaking, I knew I had to rise to the occasion and ensure that every detail was meticulously planned and executed flawlessly. The pressure was immense, and I only had three days.
On the eve of the big presentation, Travis imitated how I should be in every meeting. "Stand up straight and project louder!" he barked, his tone leaving no room for argument.
I couldn't help but let out a sigh, knowing that his demands were non-negotiable. "Can't I just let Mr. Chambers fill in for me?" I mumbled, already feeling the weight of the impending presentation bearing down on me.
Travis let out an exasperated sigh, his frustration evident. "Why would you ever think that? The CEO must be the one to speak, you know that," he reminded me sternly.
Feeling a wave of insecurity wash over me, I confessed, "I'm not a stage person." The idea of speaking in front of a crowd filled me with dread, and I wished I could avoid it altogether.
Travis's response was swift and unwavering. "There's no need for that. Generally speaking, the company will sell itself, and the keynote speaker will not have much effect on investment," he explained. "But you have to be able to speak and answer questions confidently in order to not scare anyone away."
"I think it's good. I'm convinced." Jasper defended.
Feeling a glimmer of hope, I turned to Jasper for support, but his compliment only served to frustrate Travis further. "Can you be serious? His demeanor needs to be a lot more confident," Travis snapped, his disappointment palpable. "I raised you better than this!"
As doubt began to creep in, I couldn't help but voice my concerns. "Do you think I can meet the $50 million fundraising goal?" I asked, desperate for reassurance.
Travis hesitated, avoiding my gaze. "I don't know, I'm just here to bring out the charisma," he deflected, his words doing little to ease my anxiety. "You aren't suddenly worried about screwing up, are you? That's not like you."
Feeling a pang of offense at Travis's question, I straightened up, refusing to let his doubt shake my resolve. "Of course not," I replied, my tone firm and resolute. "I may have my doubts, but failure is not an option."
I realized that this roadshow presented a golden opportunity to demonstrate my resilience and determination. Despite the recent turmoil and attempts to undermine me, I refused to be cowed into submission. I had clawed my way to the top for valid reasons, and there was no way I was going to let a group of conniving old men oust me without a fight.
Each member of the board had their own motives for wanting me out of the picture. Mr. Wallace, ever the opportunist, probably saw my removal as a chance to seize control of the company and pursue his aggressive expansionist agenda unchecked. With me out of the way, he could push through risky deals and speculative ventures without facing any opposition from a cautious CEO.
Mr. Carter, the pragmatist, probably viewed my ousting as an opportunity to restore stability and restore order to a company teetering on the brink of chaos. With me gone, he could step in as a steady hand at the helm, guiding Todd Corporation through turbulent waters with prudence and foresight.
Mr. Thompson, the enigmatic outsider, stood to benefit from the ensuing power vacuum, exploiting the chaos to advance his own agenda and consolidate his influence within the company. With me removed from the equation, he could position himself as a kingmaker, wielding his considerable influence behind the scenes to shape the future of Todd Corporation to his liking.
And then there was Mr. Chambers, the patriarch of Todd Corporation. With me out of the picture, his grip on power would weaken further, leaving him at the mercy of those with less noble intentions and the company would fail. He was only keeping me close because I was his lifeline.
As the evening settled in, Jasper took charge of the kitchen, effortlessly moving between pots and pans as he prepared our dinner. The aroma of spices filled the air, mingling with the warmth of his presence. He plated the meal and set it before me and I couldn't help but feel gratitude.
Since I was at Jasper's place for the past six days, a new rhythm had taken hold of our evenings.
Sex. Lots of hot rough sex.
With each passing night, a primal energy seemed to ignite between us, fueled by the intensity of our desires. I became the primary instigator and Jasper welcomed my advances eagerly, his own passion matching mine with an intensity that left us both breathless.
And though the horny beast had been unleashed from inside me, Jasper showed no signs of complaint. Instead, he reveled in the amount of times we could go at it, each night a testament to the fiery chemistry that burned between us.
I've never been more satisfied.
Jasper looked at me stare at him, his expression firm yet caring. "You've been pushing yourself too hard, Alex," he said gently. "You need your energy for tomorrow."
I grinned teasingly, feeling the familiar spark of mischief. "Well, if you want me to sleep, you could always tuck me in," I quipped, winking at him playfully.
Jasper chuckled, shaking his head as he crossed his arms. "Nice try. As much as I want to, not tonight," he replied, his tone firm but affectionate. "You need to eat and go straight to bed. Tomorrow's a big day, and you need to be at your best."
I sighed dramatically, feigning reluctance as I picked up my fork. "Fine, fine," I conceded, taking a bite of the food Jasper had prepared. "But only because of the roadshow. Otherwise, I'd stay up all night with you."
"I know you can," he said, his voice warm with fondness. "But trust me, you'll thank me in the morning when you're clearheaded and able to move. Since you're still neglecting getting protection, how about I just be your bodyguard."
"Thanks, Jasper," I said sincerely. "It'll save me the trouble."
Jasper smiled warmly, shaking his head. "No need for thanks, Alex," he replied. "I just want to make sure you're safe."
I nodded, understanding his sentiment. "Well, at least let me pay you for your time and effort," I insisted, reaching for my wallet.
But Jasper waved off my offer. "I appreciate the gesture, but I'm not doing this for the money," he said. "I just want to help you out."
"An employee should be paid."
"I'm not an employee, I'm your boyfriend." Jasper corrected me.
I couldn't help but smile at his generosity. "Whatever, Jasper," I rolled my eyes. "I'll fix your salary."
"Fine."
As we discussed plans for celebrating after the roadshow, I felt a surge of excitement. "How about we go out for a fancy dinner?" I suggested, eager to treat Jasper for all his support.
Jasper's eyes lit up at the idea, and he nodded eagerly. "That sounds perfect," he agreed. "I'm up for anything you want."
I had been eagerly waiting for the perfect opportunity to treat Jasper, to show him the fruits of my research and planning. A month ago, I had started looking up places to go on dates, meticulously compiling a list of the venues most likely to impress a date. I poured over reviews, scoured the internet for recommendations, and even asked Travis and Lollipop for their input.
But it didn't stop there. I took the time to personalize the experience, tailoring each aspect to Jasper's preferences and interests. I thought about the activities he enjoyed, the foods he liked, and the atmosphere he found most appealing. Every decision was made with him in mind, with the goal of creating a magical evening that would leave a lasting impression.
With careful consideration, I handcrafted the ultimate research-based date plan. I wanted to make Jasper acknowledge me as the king of dates.
"The past few days have been incredible, Alex," he said, his eyes shining with affection. "You know it might actually be hard to keep my hands off of you."
I smiled, my heart swelling with love for this incredible man. "Well, let's see you try tomorrow then," I replied.
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
-- Power-
Rangliste 
-- Power-
Stein