Chapter 48 BUSINESS
“I completely agree. What's your suggestion?” Patrick raised an eyebrow as he seemed to find the suggestion I had made on the paper. “CineArts Press is an excellent choice. You really think of every detail, and that's something I admire about you.”
A sudden warmth rose to my cheeks at the compliment, and I cleared my throat before continuing:
“It's a new production company, composed of just a few members who hire amateur authors for their productions. Most of the content is edited by the co-founder and programmer, Alexander, along with partners Pablo, responsible for the commercial aspect, and María, in charge of financial management.” I paused, allowing Patrick to absorb the information before continuing. “Although they've been operating for less than two years, they've shown quality in their productions, especially in romantic shorts for social media, and have kept their finances balanced.”
“No wonder; I trust your ability to discover talent.”Patrick looked at me with a hint of smugness, implying something. “But something seems to be worrying you. What is it?”
“Well, they are quite inexperienced in the field and are used to running the business without interference from larger companies.” I leaned toward Patrick, pointing to the note I had made on the paper. “I've heard that major industries in the country have made partnership offers, all of which were declined, making me question their motives.”
“You have a wonderful perfume today,” Patrick whispered close to my neck.
Quickly, I resumed my previous position, realizing I was almost sitting on his lap, my cheeks now as red as a pepper.
“As I was saying, the refusals suggest that, despite being a small production company, they are determined and confident in what they want.”
“And what do you think that is?” Patrick scrutinized me, while I felt excited to be leading all the research and evaluation.
“Autonomy!” I pondered. “They're not refusing to expand their business; they simply don't want to give up the freedom they have.”
“Impressive, both your research and your perspective... You're a natural talent!” praised the CEO. “But we won't be turned down by them.”
“How can you be so sure?” I raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
“I have my tricks, Mrs. Lis. Watch and learn.” He winked, turning his attention back to the papers.
His phone started ringing, and he picked it up, staring at the screen before turning it off. The caller was persistent, and the notifications of incoming messages were audible.
“You should answer it; it seems urgent. If you need privacy, I brought headphones and promise I won't hear a thing.” I kept my gaze fixed on him, thinking it might be one of his many models seeking him out.
“You never interrupt; it's not necessary. It's no one important.” Patrick replied, turning off the device.
We arrived at the location and were greeted by Pablo, who led us inside a warehouse where there was an amateur film set, some costumes hanging on racks, and lighting fixtures.
“Lovely environment,” Patrick praised with elegance.
“No need to pretend to like it. We know we're still amateurs and that our space isn't the best,” Pablo said, a bit tense.
“Mr. Pablo, I admire beginnings. There is hidden beauty in this journey. I'm not complimenting the environment to flatter you. You see, it's not in my nature to pamper acquisitions!” the CEO retorted, keeping his chin up. His stature was much taller than Pablo's, who shrank his shoulders, embarrassed.
“I apologize for my misunderstanding,” he defended himself. “This way, please.”
We entered a humble, makeshift meeting room, where Alexander and Maria were talking fervently, falling silent as soon as we entered.
“Good morning, Mr. Alexander and Mrs. Maria. It's a pleasure to meet you,” Patrick said formally. “Did we interrupt?”
“Not at all. Your visit is more than welcome. Please, have a seat,” Alexander pointed politely while the woman stared at us.
“And who might this be?” Maria raised her eyebrows, eyeing me with disdain.
“I am Elisabeth Lis, Mr. Morgan's executive secretary. Nice to meet you.” I extended my hand, but she turned her face to Pablo and Alexander, ignoring my gesture.
Patrick gently lowered my arm. The atmosphere was tense; Greg had stayed on guard at the warehouse gate, with his security spread around.
“Mrs. Maria, I feel our presence is not welcome. Is there a problem?” Patrick leaned back in the chair, opening the folder. “I understand. You are the partner against the partnership. In my view, Alexander is the most interested, and you, Mr. Pablo, have yet to decide. Am I correct?”
“How do you know that?” Pablo widened his eyes, surprised.
A smile played on my lips. In all our dealings, we were always two steps ahead.
“Your behavior reveals more than you think,” I commented calmly, taking some papers from Mr. Morgan's hands, who nodded for me to continue. “We understand the fears, the uncertainties, and the certainties.”
I looked at each person in the room, who evaluated me in silence.
“Mrs. Maria, I believe your greatest fear is losing the decision-making freedom of Planet Films. Our contractual proposal includes free will in decisions, in conjunction with our production company, aiming for mutual benefit,” I explained.
“If more than one person is deciding, then it is not free will, my dear,” Maria said sharply.
“Then you are accustomed to not having freedom, Mrs. Maria, since here you have three equal partners,” the CEO intervened, smiling smugly.
“No, we are a family, and the decision is made jointly by the three of us,” she replied firmly, her brothers running their hands through their hair, visibly uncomfortable.
“Do you all have the same ambitions as well?” I asked, prompting Pablo and Alexander to look at me.
“No, I want to establish a solid partnership with SoundStory Press. This would give us more notoriety in the market, and we could get an angel investor for future projects, along with, of course, sensational scripts that are highlighted by the biggest publisher in Seattle.” Alexander said as he filled plastic cups with coffee and offered them to us, which we gratefully accepted.
“You want to hand our dream over to an industry that only cares about profits without passion... At the first sign of trouble, we'll be the first to be cut!” Maria raised her voice. “Pablo, you agree with me, don't you, brother?”
“Sorry, Maria, but Alexander is right... We pay our bills on time, but that doesn't mean we're making a profit. We've barely managed to survive the last few months with the rising costs of filming products,” Pablo sighed, placing his hands on his sister's shoulders and massaging them. “We need an angel investor.”
“I can't believe you would give up so easily on what we're building!” she shouted, and everyone fell silent.