Chapter 7: The Hostile Move
Chapter 7: The Hostile Move
Despite the impending doom hanging over her head, Elena was forced to keep moving. Viktor had arranged for her bail, strictly to ensure she didn't flip on him. He housed her in a cheap, secure apartment, stripping her of her designer clothes and luxury cars.
But Viktor’s master plan was already in motion.
At 9:00 AM on a Tuesday, Julian received an emergency call from his Chief Financial Officer.
"Julian, we are under attack," the CFO panicked over the phone. "A massive shell corporation just bought up thirty percent of our floating stock. They are launching a hostile takeover bid. The board is panicking. They’re demanding an emergency meeting this afternoon, and a vote of no confidence against you!"
Julian walked into the boardroom at exactly 2:00 PM. The room was buzzing with anxious murmurs. At the far end of the table sat Viktor, smirking confidently. He had used a proxy company to buy a seat at the table.
"Julian, my friend," Viktor said loudly, playing to the room. "We are all so deeply terribly sorry about the tragic... misunderstandings in your personal life. But the market demands stability. Your distraction is costing this studio millions. It is time for you to step down as CEO and allow capable hands to guide Starlight Studios into the future."
Several board members nodded in agreement. They were greedy, cowardly men who only cared about their quarterly dividends.
Julian didn't shout. He didn't lose his temper. He simply unbuttoned his suit jacket and sat down at the head of the table.
"Viktor," Julian said smoothly. "You have always been a fan of great cinema. You know that in every good movie, the villain always thinks he has won in the second act. But you forgot one crucial detail."
"Oh? And what is that?" Viktor sneered.
"I hold fifty-one percent of the voting rights. This company is a fortress, and you are standing outside the gates."
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"For now," Viktor countered, his smile fading into a dangerous scowl. "When Elena’s custody trial begins, and your name is dragged through the mud for being a negligent, abusive father who allowed his child to wander into a dangerous pool... the board will force you out. You have one week, Julian. Surrender the company, or I destroy your family."
Julian leaned forward, his eyes locking onto Viktor’s. "I’ll see you at the gala, Viktor. Make sure you dress for the occasion."
