CHAPTER EIGHTY FOUR - A RECKONING TO REMEMBER

Back in their hotel suite, Max paced the room while Ava sat at the desk, furiously typing on her laptop. "Okay," Ava said, breaking the tense silence. "I've done some digging. TechVision's financials look solid, and their R&D department has been making waves in AI and quantum computing. Lucas wasn't exaggerating – they could be a formidable partner for Novatech." Max ran a hand through his hair, frustration evident in every movement. "But our current deal is better for Novatech in the long run. We've spent months hammering out the details, making sure it's a perfect fit." "True," Ava conceded. "But Lucas's offer is flashier. It's got that 'wow' factor that could sway the board, especially the more conservative members who've been hesitant about our deal." Max sat down heavily on the edge of the bed. "So what do we do? How do we counter this?" Ava turned away from her laptop, her brow furrowed in thought. "We need to refocus the narrative. Remind everyone why our deal is superior.