Nestor shook off the thought. He was probably just overthinking it. Lawrence was likely laying everything out in business terms to get this group of hard-headed managers on board.
The conference room was completely silent. Years of experience had taught these old-timers that in the business world, nobody acted out of kindness. It was always about profit.
Lawrence’s explanation made perfect sense. It was clear, logical, and honestly, pretty convincing.
Malloy opened his mouth but only managed a grunt. “So we’re supposed to drop The James Group and cozy up to Nexus Dynamics? What if Nexus Dynamics changes their mind? What if they use us to go after The James Group and then throw us away when they’re done?”
Lawrence’s voice stayed steady. “That’s why The Blair Group has to prove its value fast. We need Nexus Dynamics to see their investment in us is worth every penny.”
Nestor felt a wave of relief. He remembered Malvin coming in person last night to talk business. That kind of gesture showed real sincerity. Nexus Dynamics was the country’s top tech company, with a spotless reputation. Everyone wanted to work with them, so there was no way they’d risk their credibility on games.
“Opportunity always comes with risk. If we choose to stay comfortable, the market will leave us behind. If we choose to change at the right time, we could see something spectacular. What do you all think?” Lawrence looked around the room, calm and collected.
Everyone was looking at him differently now.
There was something about Lawrence. He had a quiet steadiness that seemed too mature for his age, like the tip of an iceberg hinting at something even more powerful hidden below the surface.
No one was laughing anymore. No one whispered. Something in Lawrence’s words had reached them—maybe it was a sense of urgency, or maybe it had lit a spark of ambition.
Nestor found himself surprised all over again. Lawrence wasn’t just capable, he had real skill and vision. He’d brought The Blair Group back from a dead end.
“Lawrence, I’m in,” the tech manager said suddenly.
The head of R&D nodded. “Count me in too.”
One after another, everyone voiced their support. Only Malloy stayed silent with his arms folded, but he knew it was happening. The Blair Group was about to go through a real transformation.
Almost without thinking, Nestor adjusted his tie. Compared to The James Group, Nexus Dynamics was in a whole different league. Standing here, he felt small.
Today’s meeting would decide whether his company survived. The weight of it all made his heart race.
He glanced at Lawrence beside him.
Lawrence wore a tailored dark suit, standing tall and walking with a quiet confidence. There wasn’t even a hint of nerves on his face—he looked like he belonged here, like this was just another day.
Nestor felt a pang of envy. Lawrence was almost too calm.
Maybe it was because of his time in the military. Maybe he’d just seen bigger things.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: After the Fall A Leap into a Stranger's Arms
I’m glad I hung in there for all 368 chapters. This was a really good story!...
They are on a base. Alice and Shirley need to be approved and sponsored to enter. What are they worried for? Can random people just come on base?...
I’m glad the tech team has a conscience. I was also thinking the same thing about the team being the one to build it because Shirley doesn’t code anything....
This hearing is being drug out like one in real life....
How does Shirley think she can dismiss and call witnesses at will in the courtroom, telling Amy that she could leave now?...
The audacity. She just insulted his deceased wife and their child, but she wants justice? 🤣🤣...
This is the most delusional couple. Making up slights against themselves from people who couldn’t care less. Twisting everything into their own narrative of what they think and feel....
Finally. It’s all out there....
I hope he remembers to stop access to anything Alice currently has the rights to take....
Didn’t Alice bring food? She left it. I would definitely have it tested....