His 181St Second (Laverne and Marina) novel Chapter 20

**Winds Carry Lost Promises by Asa Holt Vale**
**Chapter 20**

Marina felt a flicker of optimism ignite within her, and her previously forced smile transformed into one that was truly heartfelt, illuminating her features with a warmth she had almost forgotten.

Just as she was about to voice her thoughts, Daron interrupted, casually flipping through the documents laid out before him. “If I decide to acquire shares from the Ross Group and you’re still eager to shape its future, then we might as well skip this entire discussion,” he remarked, his tone light yet pointed.

With a decisive snap, he closed the folder and tossed it aside as if it were inconsequential, his intense gaze locking onto hers with unwavering scrutiny.

Marina met his gaze head-on, her resolve unyielding. “You’re reading far too much into this, Mr. Zamora. If I’m transferring the shares to you, then the direction of the Ross Group is entirely in your hands, not mine,” she stated firmly, each word infused with conviction.

By this point, any sentimental attachment she had to the company had been completely severed. Those proposals she had submitted were relics of a past effort, remnants of a time when she believed in the potential of Ross Group. She had included them merely to showcase the company’s strengths and solid foundation to Daron.

Whatever path he chose to take it down or any potential conflicts with Lavern that might arise were no longer her concern.

Daron’s expression softened slightly, the sharpness in his gaze giving way to a more contemplative demeanor. “All right then, lay out your terms,” he urged, his voice now carrying a hint of curiosity.

Marina pressed her lips together thoughtfully. “Ross Group had previously invested in a project, but Lavern unilaterally pulled the funding and shut it down for reasons unknown. I would appreciate it if you could keep the investment flowing into that project, Mr. Zamora,” she replied, her voice steady.

After all, Yesenia had lost her job standing up for her, and Marina had promised to rectify the situation. She was determined to ensure that Wonder Group could weather this storm.

Daron nodded slightly, acknowledging her request. “That’s a reasonable ask. Just out of curiosity, would you prefer I invest as a stakeholder in Ross Group, or would you rather I represent Zamora Group?”

The question caught her off guard. He tossed it out so casually, as if it were merely an afterthought, but Marina immediately sensed the implications.

Choosing the Ross Group angle would send a clear signal that she was still emotionally tethered to the company, still trying to meddle in its affairs.

After a moment of contemplation, she parted her lips, her voice measured and deliberate. “Choose whatever option suits you best, Mr. Zamora, the one that maximizes your advantage.”

What mattered most to her was that Wonder Group received the necessary funds to navigate this challenging period. The specifics of Daron’s involvement were secondary.

Daron, reclining on the sofa, appeared pleased with her response. He chuckled softly and reached for the documents once again. “The ball’s in your court, Ms. Finley. Name your price.”

“Five billion dollars.” She had structured the deal to include a reasonable discount, hoping to make it more appealing.

Daron raised an eyebrow at her figure, maintaining a neutral tone. “So you’re planning to retreat to Vrufield, kick back, and let your sister finance your endeavors? Not a bad deal.”

Marina was momentarily taken aback, speechless in the face of his comment.

Daron continued, “Let’s make it seven billion dollars, taxes included. This way, Elnora won’t accuse me of lowballing you and tarnishing my reputation.”

She nodded, a hint of gratitude surfacing in her expression. “Thank you, Mr. Zamora.”

His face remained impassive, revealing nothing of his thoughts. “My team will draft the contract and have it sent to you through the lawyers for your signature,” he stated matter-of-factly.

Marina nodded in agreement. “Sounds good.”

—

Back at Alyssa’s charming little villa, her mood had significantly improved.

Lavern strolled into the courtyard, only to find her humming a cheerful tune as she busied herself with sprucing up the surroundings, clearly in high spirits.

He approached her from behind, wrapping his arms around her waist in a familiar gesture of affection.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify