Chapter 52: Ariana getting ally
Even though the boardroom was full of people talking, the sound barely reached Ariana as she came in. She moved sternly among the executives and investors, her eyes fixed and focused on her goal. Today was particularly critical, because the meeting would shape both the Camelo Corporation's future and her hold on it. She didn't have room for anything to go wrong.
The table was bright and well-lit, but nothing managed to ease the tension in the room. Ariana quickly looked over at the end of the table, right where Jason Foster, a major backer of the corporation, was seated. He was an important ally of Antony and, in the business world, his word could greatly affect what happened. It was obvious to Ariana that winning his loyalty would be an important step toward establishing her power in the company.
But getting Jason Foster to side with her would be no easy job. People said he made his choices without emotion and was very loyal to Antony. More than just a polite talk or a good plan was needed to make him defect. Ariana had to dig deeper. She understood that looking into the man's reasons and possible weaknesses was crucial.
As soon as the meeting got started, Ariana began to notice a faint but reliable unease in her chest. All this added stress: her workload, the close monitoring of her actions by Antony's allies and the hesitation from her own board members meant it was tough to focus on any one thing. But Ariana steeled herself. She wasn't as scared as she was in the beginning. She now had a goal and wasn't ready to give up.
Ariana said in a calm but strong voice, "Good morning, everyone." I'm grateful that everyone could be here today. I have some interesting news on the company's future and I believe we'll be able to proceed with the changes we've discussed.
A few people agreed, though the majority stayed quiet, just looking at her. She wondered if Alex was waiting for her to mess up or if they really wanted to see her show them what she could do. Either option, she made sure to keep going.
Management began the meeting with market performance data, changes in the organization and the situations of new projects. Yet the discussion kept going and Ariana started to think more about the job at hand. Now I had to speak with Jason Foster.
She glanced at the table's end, engaged with him momentarily and then continued with their meeting. He was still, wearing a perfectly pressed suit and displaying an aura of firmness. Just a small smile on Jeremy's face showed he doubted Ariana could lead others. The man saw Ariana as a new, largely ignorant heir, since he had worked with Antony for countless years before Ariana held power.
Still, Ariana recognized that there was more to Jason than being a businessman. Cassius was not only loyal to Antony at work but also felt it on a personal level. The bond between the two men was deeper than just their business relationships. Being part of Antony's family's story caused Jason to struggle letting go of his commitment to them. She decided she had to get past Frank's loyalty and knew right where to begin.
After they discussed the company's finances briefly, Ariana asked for a pause. She got to her feet and looked around the room. At this point, there was no time to pause and think. She stopped for a moment, then looked at Jason Foster.
With a steady voice, Candace began by saying, "Mr. Foster." I know that Antony Raymond has been a favorite of yours for a long time. Your help as our partner has greatly contributed to the corporation and shaped the decisions we've taken so far. I know you are also thinking about what lies ahead. I want to believe that Camelo Corporation will move past its old problems and focus on what can be accomplished moving forward.
Jason looked surprised, assuming that Azra did not want to talk to him. By way of acknowledgment, he gave a gentle nod as though blessing her to speak her mind.
Ariana wasn't finished. She understood that everything would depend on what she did in this moment. Rachel then spoke directly to me, in a voice that sounded more personal.
She recognized the reason behind Cleopatra's choice as the result of their history and her voice reflected her sincerity. Still, history often sees changes over time, as Mr. Foster can confirm. Most people stay loyal due to memories of the past, but I am moving on to something better for my future. I aim to bring this company into the 21st century by introducing innovations, making important changes and looking at ways to grow that Antony never thought of. However, for this to become a reality, I need people eager to look to the future, not just to the past."
All you could hear was the stillness in the room. Everyone noted as Jason Foster stared at Ariana, his expression thoughtful, hiding what he was thinking inside. Ariana had a brief thought that she might have been wrong about Kevin. Was it possible she pushed things too hard by openly challenging him? Yet, she had already traveled this far and she was determined not to back down.
She continued, looking directly at Mr. Foster, "I'm giving you a chance to help save lives, Mr. Foster." A chance to be involved in something greater than just your life. A change to help shape the Camelo Corporation but also the future of the whole industry. You can be part of an achievement that will be remembered as a successful business turnaround. Consider whether you want to support someone who can take this company to the next level or just keep holding on to the past.
As Jason leaned back in the chair and folded his arms, his gaze softened just a little. She noticed that he was working through something in his head. She had definitely succeeded in reaching him. Caesar was giving it thought, thinking about the advantages and disadvantages of supporting one side against the other.
After what seemed like a very long time, Jason finally started talking.
Mr. Chumbley lowered his voice and said, "You have a very strong point, Miss Camelo." The future is something I've given some thought to as well. I noticed that the world is changing and that shows through the weakening of Antony's plans. I've always believed it's important to be loyal. And you expect me to walk away from the community I've trusted all my life.
Ariana didn't take her gaze away from him. "Loyalty is important, Mr. Foster. Just because you are loyal to someone, doesn't mean you need to be loyal to everything they do wrong. If you really think the Camelo Corporation is worthwhile and has a future, I am asking for your support. By uniting, we will help make this company the best it's ever been.
There was a really long silence and Ariana's heart started to beat fast inside her. Nearly everyone in the room stopped breathing while waiting for Jason's response.
A nod from him followed, like he was making up his mind for the last time.
Miss Camelo had Jason's attention now, as his face closed off and became more determined. I promise to back your ideas for what is to come. Let's see where this goes."
Her breath found its way into a tight place in her throat. It was done. Antony's former friend Jason Foster was now siding with her instead of with Antony.
Everyone in the room murmured out of surprise. Several board members looked at one another in disbelief after Jason's statement. A number of people expressed doubt about what the company could expect going forward. Ariana wasn't bothered by how other people treated her. Her victory in the struggle meant the Camelo Corporation belonged only to her from now on.
For a short time, Ariana paused to enjoy the progress of the meeting. It was shown that she wasn't only an heiress without power, but also a leader on her own merits. And with Jason Foster on her side, she knew that the tide was finally turning in her favor.
But Ariana knew better than to rest on her laurels. This was only the beginning. There were still challenges ahead of Rachel, Antony, and their supporters, but with each victory, Ariana was one step closer to taking full control of her destiny. And she would stop at nothing to ensure the Camelo Corporation's future was hers to shape.