The Protege chapter 2 - Sex Stories

The Protege chapter 2

... had been in negotiations for some time and Cynthia was able to put the finishing touches on an agreement to manage retirement and pension accounts for the next 7 years. I like to think I helped clinch the deal. When they reached a sticking point that she was willing to compromise on, she engaged me off to the side with a whisper.

As instructed, I shook my head no, and then she lead me down a path to close the deal. "I don't see how we could take this sort of risk, at these thin margins. What if we stipulate to that point but in exchange add three years to the deal to make it eight years in exchange for the additional risk."

Their COO countered at six years.

"Giulio, you are relentless. You need to give us seven or I will have to follow my new associate's advice and direct our efforts to others who understand the value we bring," said Cynthia with calm confidence.

"Mr. Bottega, no one has delivered as consistently as we have over the past 15 years. Simply the best performing fund portfolio on the market. I can honestly say this is the most generous offer I have ever seen." It was the only offer I have ever seen. "You drive a hard bargain, but it's time to get this done so we can provide stability to your workforce, and let you focus on your passion. You cannot find a more consistent performer anywhere. Not to mention we have the largest percentage investment in western European assets of any global investment manager period. Great performance and invested in your ...

... global core markets, you've already won."

He leaned back and smiled, and the deal was done.

After the meeting, I looked and Cynthia and gave a fist pump and a grin. Her expression got serious. "You were an excellent wing-woman, but you need to be very careful Ms. Carmichael. If he had questioned your experience of deals you've made it could have been a disaster. Not all men are swayed by entrancing brown eyes and a pretty smile. Nonetheless well done."

"Thank you, your point is well made. I won't take that risk again." I said seriously.

"Risks are a part of success, Ms. Carmichael. We just need to understand the consequences and be prepared if things don't work out as we plan. Your instincts are good. You have a knack for understanding what others want and giving it to them, even if they don't fully know they want it. That is a trait that can serve you well." she smiled as she looked into my eyes.

I turned away and her words processed in my head. Was she talking about the meeting or us? "Thank You Cynthia. Coming from you, those words mean a lot." I just wished I knew exactly what she meant.

"LVMH will be tougher. They have been unrealistic on expectations for fees and have been arrogant enough to suggest they should have some control of where our funds are invested. That will never happen. I suspect they are simply using us to drive a better deal with their current asset managers," she said, perplexed. "But regardless of the outcome this was a major win this ...