I lift an eyebrow, saying nothing. I’ve already heard. Much to my surprise, Dad’s idea for the gala may have actually started an odd type of ‘bidding war’. It seems the proposed companies are starting to offer incentives in an attempt to secure their partnership with Danger Enterprises. They don’t have money—that’s why they want ours—but they have ownership percentages, profit sharing, and whatever other methods they think will sway the money their way.
“In addition to doubling our stock options, they agreed to name the scholarship fund at the university after your dad . . . the Robert Danger Advanced Technology Fund.”
I whistle, smirking a bit. “Like he’d know advanced technology if it bit him in the ass, but talk about playing to Dad’s ego. He’ll love the immortality of having his name attached to something like that.”
“That’s what I’m thinking too,” Robbie says. “I don’t care what money Chase’s boys might be offering because we know the money is there in every option in different amounts. But Robert Danger’s name in the paper every year as he hand-selects a recipient and personally delivers the scholarship? That sort of shit sticks.”
“You heard any gossip about what’s going on upstairs?” I ask.
“Decision is going to be soon,” Robbie says. “The whole board is involved now, and you know they’re playing it close to the vest. Closed-door chats and all.”
“The more they think about it, talk to each other, the better our odds. Shows that they have doubts about blindly following Dad’s order. I’ve had a couple of them call my home line to ask questions, and hell, Charlie caught me in the parking garage last week. I think that’s a good sign. I’m hopeful, at least.”
Robbie nods. “Makes sense. By the way, heard something else,” Robbie mentions. “You and Chase still aren’t talking to each other?”
“Yeah, we haven’t dealt with the shit show after the gala. Maddie said some things that have really made me think about my relationship with Chase and Liv, but I just don’t know how to go about changing a lifetime of rivalry, especially with this axe hanging over our heads,” I tell him dejectedly.
Before he can comment on my confession, my intercom buzzes. “Sir? Your father wants to see you.”
“Of course. Tell him I’ll be up right away,” I reply, looking at Robbie.
“First thing to do with your brother and sister . . . apologize. All three of you have been absolute shits to each other forever. Start with ‘I’m sorry’ and go from there,” he says like it’s that easy.
Easier said than done, but I know he’s right. “Thanks, man,” I say, getting up to head upstairs. In the minute it takes me to get to the board room, I see that Chase and Liv have already beaten me there. No surprise. Dad probably called me last, I think bitterly.
Still, I have room for hope. Chase doesn’t have his normal arrogant smirk on his face, and Liv has her usual detached façade. They’re not confident either. So whatever’s going on . . . I’ve still got a shot.
Dad’s back is to me as I enter the room, looking out over the skyline, his hands stuffed in the pockets of his suit and his shoulders squared.
He turns as I take my seat, and I see that his eyes are fiery as he stares daggers at all three of us. “You think I didn’t hear about the little incident at the gala? Scott, starting a fight with your brother like a child? Grow up, son. This is business, not playground roughhousing. Just another example of your inadequacy and infantilism.”
“I’m sure you know that’s not what happened,” I growl, glancing at Chase, who for once looks as surprised as I feel. He didn’t know this was coming either. “I—”
“If it were up to me, you’d be out on your ass! Your actions could’ve cost us dearly. God, imagine if one of the board members or one of the CEOs of the guest companies had walked in on that display of juvenile delinquency. Although I guess I shouldn’t expect better from you. By now, I know you’re always such a disappointment,” Dad yells. “Unfortunately, the verdict’s coming down, and it’s not solely my decision on which route we go. I can’t fire you because it’ll lead to too many questions, and I guess there’s the off chance they’ll pick your deal.” He says the last part with a snide grin, like it’s a complete impossibility.