- 29.
My third move had never been derailed by Nick’s return from the past. People tend to project themselves onto others. And someone like Nick now hardened and ruthless–could only imagine me going to extremes. He was certain I’d use Jensen resources to acquire Holt shares, sway se board, and put Julian in power.
But I had no in
But I had no intention of letting him win on his terms.
My third move had never been about a hostile takeover. Mr. Holt was an excellent businessman–dedicated, fair, and loyal to his people, specially the Jensen family. Knowing his heart might act up tonight, why wouldn’t I prepare accordingly?
Nick had been back for only a month and didn’t know that Mr. Holt had been undergoing full medical exams every day for over six months. His tealth was actually better than before.
From the beginning, my strategy was simple: make Mr. Holt doubt Nick’s loyalty. My first two moves were designed to sow those seeds, The hird would trick Nick into thinking I was supporting Julian, setting up an aggressive takeover.
Once Nick acted out, the family head’s doubts would be confirmed, and Nick’s claim to the Holt empire would be permanently revoked.
My only addition to the original plan was arranging for Nick to meet me by the riverbank. If he’d stayed at Holt HQ, he might have noticed something was off.
Tonight’s “coup” went smoothly, with Mr. Holt playing along. He trusted my father, and when Father suggested testing Nick’s loyalty, Mr. Holt readily agreed.
