New beginning: Billionaire love story (Claire and Alex)

Chapter 35 The meeting

In Jack's spacious office, Claire sat across from him, her expression focused as she briefed him on the upcoming meeting with the

Harris company.

"Jack, I need you to take the lead in today's meeting with Harris," Claire stated, her tone serious yet composed.

Jack, the vice president of the company, listened attentively. "Sure, Claire. But why the sudden change? You're usually the one leading these meetings."

Claire hesitated, not wanting to reveal the personal reason behind her decision. "I have an urgent matter that requires my immediate attention," she replied vaguely, hoping Jack wouldn't press further.

Jack nodded understandingly. "I see. Don't worry, Claire, I've got it covered. Is there anything specific you want me to focus on during the meeting?"

"Hm...just listen to what Alexander Harris has to offer and ask him the reason for choosing Metacortex." Claire appreciated Jack's professionalism and willingness to step in.

"Okay, noted. I just wish you can be present at the meeting."

"I just wanted to make sure that the Harris is a worthy company to partner up with before I meet them myself. I just don't want to regret it."

"Okay, consider it done."

"Thank you, Jack. I really appreciate your help with this," Claire said sincerely.

Jack smiled reassuringly. "Anytime, Claire. We're a team, after all. Anyway, I heard about the charity you organize."

Claire raised her brows. "How did you know?"

"Well, I have my source and I accidentally overheard your conversation with your secretary."

Claire chuckled lightly. "Looks like I couldn't keep anything hidden from you, Jack."

With their strategy set, Claire left Jack's office, feeling a weight lifted off her shoulders. She trusted Jack to handle the meeting professionally, allowing her to attend to the pressing matter which she had purposely made it up. She doesn't like lying especially to Jack since he is the only one in the company that help her but on the other side, she is not ready for Alex to find out the truth about Claire. She will wait for a perfect timing to show who she really is.

The clock struck 1 PM as Alex Harris arrived at the headquarters of Metacortex, a prestigious tech company. He was eager and excited to share his ideas during the meeting, anticipating the CEO's response with a mix of enthusiasm and nerves. Accompanied by Christian as well as his secretary, Alex made his way into the building. As they passed through the corridors, the employees couldn't help but glance at Alexander Harris, a recognizable figure in the business world across Europe. The Harris family was renowned for owning 10 hotels globally and was even considering expanding into the shopping industry.

Despite the attention, Alex kept a composed demeanor, his good looks not going unnoticed by the women in the office.

Christian slightly leaned closer to Alex as he whisper to him. "I guess you are always the beacon of light."

Alex rolled his eyes since he is used to hearing his best friend joking remarks.

Hiss

s secretary deftly handled the formalities, requesting a visitor card before they proceeded to the designated meeting floor. Christian, ever perceptive of his friend's emotions, placed a reassuring hand on Alex's shoulder. "Are you nervous, mate?" he asked with a knowing smile.

-Alex scoffed, a hint of arrogance in his tone. "Nervous? Please, I'm not nervous about anything. It is only a meeting.

"Of course, after you are Alexander Harris."

Christian chuckled inwardly, understanding that beneath Alex's bravado, there was a hint of excitement and perhaps a touch of nerves. However, Alex's pride often masked his true feelings.Upstodatee from Novel(D)ra/m/a.O(r)g

Upon reaching the meeting room, they were greeted by Sandra, Claire's secretary, Sandra ushered them inside and introduced them to Jack, who was already present.

"Mr. Harris, it's a pleasure to have you here, Jack Winston." Jack said warmly, extending his hand in greeting.

Alex shook Jack's hand firmly, his gaze assessing the man who would be temporarily filling in for the CEO.

"Likewise, Mr. Winston. I appreciate you taking the time to meet with us."

Taking his seat across from Jack, Alex couldn't help but inquire about the CEO's absence.

"If you don't mind me asking, where is the CEO? Will she attend the meeting today?"

Jack shook his head slightly, indicating that Claire had other commitments. "Unfortunately, she had to attend to an urgent matter. I'ÙÌ

be stepping in for her during this meeting. I hope you are okay with that." Jack jokingly said.

Alex smiled and nodded understanding. Though a part of him was disappointed not to meet with the CEO directly. "Of course, 1 understand. Let's proceed then."

The meeting commenced with Alex presenting his ideas and proposals with confidence. Jack listened attentively.

"So, you want to partner up with Metacortex for your upcoming hotel in Las Vegas?"

"Yes, that is indeed my plan."

"Interesting. What is your reason for choosing Metacortex? Because we are not the only technology & software company."

"Good question, Mr. Winston. I chose Metacortex because of its fame. As a businessman, I am not going to lie."

Jack nodded at his courage for admitting.

"However, I also know that Metacortex is one of the most reliable, fast-forward and successful technology & software company. People across the globe are using Metacortex and since the theme of my new hotel will be technology, it will only make sense choosing Metacortex." "Since Metacortex was under Robert Robertson leadership, we do not have any significant progress. We do not have any updates with our software Cortex and our stock even dip. So, what makes you so sure Metacortex is reliable?"

"I always mention this lot of times, but it is not the company however the person behind who lead the company is the cause. I know Robert Robertson is not a good CEO, no offence, Mr. Winston,"

""None taken."

"I once had a deal with him. We had meetings and we sign the contract. Out of nowhere, he terminated our contract. He doesn't give us a specific reason, he just cut us off. From that moment, I figured Robert Robertson is not a good leader. Since, you have a new CEO, I don't doubt this company to do the same mistake."

"You really think highly of our company, Mr. Harris. I appreciate that."

"I am a businessman, Mr. Winston. I know which company is good and which is bad."

"I must admit, your offering today is tempting. However, I must discuss this with the CEO but don't worry I will try and persuade her if she reject it."

With a bright smile, Alex and Jack shake hands ending the meeting

"It was a great pleasure, Mr. Winston "

"Likewise, Mr. Harris."

Alex felt satisfied with the progress he made. He is positive that Jack will be the bridge to build a successful partnership.

Exiting the meeting room, Christian walk to his side.

"Do you think this time will be it?"

"I have a good feeling. Whatever the result, we have presented our offer and if she reject it,'

H

Alex stopped in his track and face Christian. Afierce look clouded his eyes as the corner of his lips curl up to a smirk "We barge in to her office."