Ryan certainly sensed the irony in Sam's voice. "What are you trying to say?"
"What right do we have to demand our own employees to buy our cars?!" Sam demanded. "This is a direct violation of labor laws, and do you have any guarantees that they're willing to buy it? If so much as one of them is unwilling and they decide to report us, we must face the law's judgment, and what do you think would be left of Saunderia's reputation? The tide hasn't really changed for Saunderia, and playing Russian roulette with company PR will see us facing bankruptcy again soon."
"I'm sure they won't protest if we give employee rebates," Ryan argued.
"Employee rebates? What's the percentage we are talking about?" Sam demanded. "Thirty? Forty? Maybe even beyond fifty? Did it cross your mind that we'd be taking a loss in capital? Every employee has different living conditions and family background too, which affects their purchasing power. Moreover, if I'd recently bought a car that I'm pleased with, I'd refuse your offer even if you sold it to me with a ninety percent discount! Cars aren't household items—it's a consumable that requires maintenance. Even if it's a new energy car and costs less than carbon-fueled vehicles, it still costs money, especially for maintenance!"
Though Ryan was left glowering, he persisted. "There are employees who will need it! Do you think this is right, denying my proposal when you've done nothing?!"
Sam shrugged. "Aren't you denying my hard work even before Damian Craig has given me a definitive response?"
Ryan fumed, obviously put on the spot by Sam just then.
"This is a board meeting," Ryan growled through his teeth. "The board's unanimous agreement is needed. Those who agree with my proposal to have Saunderia employees purchase our cars with rebates as a means of promotion, raise your hand."
Everyone was quiet and did not move—none of them agreed with Ryan's proposal, after all.
He was left staring at them in disbelief—did Sam buy all of them in no time at all?!
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: A Life Debt Repaid novel (John and Cordy)