Lucius (Acquisition Series #4) - Celia Aaron Page 0,9

call this what it is, Ms. Delacroix—a hostile takeover wrapped in a pretty package.” I let my gaze slide down her body, then back to her eyes. “You’re here because your company preys on shareholder doubts and multiplies them until you’ve created a problem to which you’re the only solution. I see your sleight of hand, and I can assure you the board will as well.”

Though her cheeks turn a brighter shade of pink, she stands her ground. “The board serves at the pleasure of the shareholders, and I will have the proxy votes to change leadership by the time the shareholder meeting happens in May if you refuse to accept my offer as it stands.” She turns to the rest of the board, and I can see her heartbeat fluttering at her throat.

Despite her calm demeanor, she feels the fight in her veins. She’s a predator like me, and when she scents blood, she doesn’t stop. I like it—her fire, her violence. I want more if it, and isn’t that a fucking problem.

“I would advise you all to consider my proposal and let Delacroix help you instead of remaining captive to old money interests who serve only themselves.” She shoots me a sharp glance. “Thank you for your time.” She collects her bag and her attorney, then the two of them leave the conference room.

I turn to the board and stroll to the head of the table. “Look, she did a great song and dance. Really, she did. I appreciated it as much as all of you. But the simple fact is, her company is far too wet behind the ears to take on Magnolia. She may have ideas or thoughts on improving our business, but I didn’t hear a single concrete idea that would increase profits.” I point at Sin. “That’s because we know this business inside and out. Call us old money if you want, but our family built this company brick by brick, doing whatever was necessary to see it succeed and thrive. If you think allying with Delacroix is in your best interest …” I take in a deep breath and stare down each board member in turn. “I suggest you rethink your position and consider your future as a well-paid member of our board.” I retake my chair. “Meeting’s over. Give us the room.”

I’m not interested in their thoughts on the matter. After all, I just gave them all the thoughts they need on the matter. If someone isn’t on the same page, I’ll have to pay a visit to them outside of business hours. It’s always work, work, work, isn’t it?

I lean back as they file out and the transcriptionist follows, leaving Sin, Teddy, and me in the room.

“You let that little slip of a woman get the drop on you?” Sin smirks.

“Shut up.”

Teddy shrugs. “She didn’t convince the board. I don’t see a problem.”

I lean back and peer out at the foyer. Evelyn’s in deep conversation with her attorney.

“She may not have convinced the board, but if she can get proxies from shareholders, she can install her own board.” I idly flip through her prospectus. “But that’s not even the point. The point is that she tried to kill me last night, and I have no clue why.”

“What?” Teddy’s blond eyebrows rise in alarm.

I wave a hand at him. “It was nothing.”

“Nothing?” He stands. “Are you shot? Do I need to check you—”

“I’m fine, doc. Just a little bruised. Sit your Grey’s Anatomy ass down.”

He gives me a sharp look. “Dick.”

“She was wearing a mask, so I didn’t see her face, but it’s her. I can feel it.” Like an animal scenting its prey—I know it was her.

I glance at her again. She’s moving, heading toward the elevator bank, and her sidekick is already gone. There’s no way I’m letting her get away this easily.

“You two discuss reasons amongst yourselves. I’m going to have a little chat with Ms. Delacroix.”

“Lucius,” Sin says in his bored drawl.

“What?” I pull the door open.

“Try not to leave any forensic evidence this time.” He stands and buttons his suit coat.

Teddy shakes his head. “Don’t you do anything, Lucius. You can’t even be sure it was her.”

“Me? Why, I wouldn’t hurt anyone, Teddy. You know that. Sugar wouldn’t melt in my mouth.” I let the door close as Sin barks a laugh and Teddy fumbles for a comeback.

Evelyn thinks she has the upper hand. That’s cute. It really is. But if she knows me at all—and she