Tuning back into the discussion, Angel took a sip of his drink, but remained quiet. Although he hadn’t contributed anything to the conversation, he knew that contract like the back of his hand. He was aware of what DWC 's objection to it was. They were all in agreement on everything except for one important stipulation: DWC 's stock.
He would be loaning Davidson World Corporation an extraordinarily large amount of money…millions. The banks were not making loans to businesses the way they used to due to the state of the economy, and the company’s working capital was at its limit. Angel knew for a fact that all other financial prospects had been tapped out. Matt contacted the company per Angel’s instructions and informed them that Angel’s company, NaDa Holdings , was looking for businesses to invest in and Davidson World Corporation 's name came up as a potential investment opportunity. DWC was eager to discuss the offer further and eventually a deal was struck.
Both companies’ lawyers had gone over the contract with a fine tooth comb. The only bone of contention was the clause which said that in addition to a low interest rate on the loan, NaDa Holdings wanted ten percent of DWC’ s stock within thirty days of the date the money was deposited. Hence the meeting tonight to try to resolve this issue and sign the contract.
“I’m sorry, this is unacceptable.” Nicole shook her head, fixing Angel and Matt with a firm look which told them they would not change their mind.
Angel took his time and placed his glass on the table before staring at Nicole. He had barely taken his eyes off her all evening, and if she noticed, she gave no indication that it bothered her. Angel had already instructed Matt that there was to be no compromise. DWC needed them... not the other way around. They didn't know that he was aware of just how desperate they actually were. One of their employees had been on his payroll for years. That’s how he knew exactly when to strike and what offer to make.
Matt removed his reading glasses. “Nicole, I’m afraid this part of the agreement is not up for negotiation. Either you accept our terms or the discussion is over. And I have to be frank. Once the deal is taken off the table, it will not be offered again.” Angel intercepted the subtle look Nicole and Neil exchanged and was prepared for what was coming.
Bringing her attention back to Matt, Nicole regretfully shook her head and sat back in her chair. “Giving you ten percent of the company is out of the question. We’re prepared to repay the loan with an interest rate far above what we’re paying financial institutions.”
“Then why don’t you borrow the money from them?” Angel asked quietly. Nicole and Neil turned their heads in unison and stared at him in surprise. These were the first words he’d uttered since negotiations began.
“Well, uh, I really can’t discuss that, but I assure you, if we need to, um, we will,” Neil bluffed.
“Mr. LaCroix, if we can't work through this and come to some compromise then I’m afraid the deal is off.” Angel saw the apprehension in Nicole’s eyes seconds before she hid the emotion. DWC needed this deal desperately.
Angel became very still, his face unyielding. Picking up his drink, he threw the rest of it down his throat then stood up without a word, buttoning his suit coat. Matt did the same, quietly gathering the papers and putting them in his briefcase. Nicole gaped at them in surprise when Angel held out his hand to shake Neil's hand, then hers.
“ Davidson World Corporation was our first choice to invest in, but we’ll have to pass. Good luck to you.” Matt nodded to them both then followed Angel.
Both men were steps away from the door when Neil called Angel's name in a nervous, anxious voice. “Wait!”
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