When Dream Meets Duty

Mr Simon pov On a beautiful sunny Wednesday. I was requested to attend a high-level review session, on the company's records . The Simon's media outlet stands out by its integrity and trusted source of news and information. As I walked into the company, I was well acknowledged by every personnel I walked into. Each individual bowed in respect to my presence. I was taken to my office. Time has changed but this office looked the same. I glanced at the wall and noticed my successful achievement hanging in the wall of the office, my awards decorated with frames, pictures of me and some celebrities, presidents, ambassadors in different fields of work. It screams the accolades of my distinguished career. This is the company of my youth and I've retired from this company for four years. I handed over the CEO duties to my most trusted associate, he was then deputy. Now, I maintain the position of Chairman of Board. Meanwhile, I sit in my favourite seat going through some financial reports and other documents offered to me by the secretary. I was faced with a harsh reality as I go through each page. Records of high operating costs, digital transformation challenges, declined advertising revenue. Indeed, Simon Media company is struggling to survive. This disappointing update got me all worked up and I stood up and paced to and fro in the office. The financial advisor words rang vividly in my mind… “Sir, we are facing cash flow issues and within the next one month we can't make payroll on time. We are working to rectify the root cause of the issue and exploring every financial option.” “What strategies measures have been taken to revitalise a struggling bankruptcy media outlet,and what funding options have been explored ?” I inquired, giving him my undivided attention. “Rebranding, we updated the outlets image and styled to appeal to the wider audience, the company did new content format using social media platform and for financial options we went for events and conferences where we generate revenue for ticket sales and sponsorships and seek investment but to no avail.” I stood near the floor-to-ceiling window in the office, my eyes tracing the bold letters of our company's name on the billboard outside. A wave of unease washed over me as I thought about the very real possibility of this place shutting down. I felt a lump form in my throat. This wasn't just a business. It was my life's work and my pride. I'd spent years building a reputation as a journalist, taking on the tough stories and holding those in power accountable. “How did it come to this” I wondered aloud. I've always been so careful and calculated, but now, the empire I'd built is on shaky ground. I thought about how my company accommodates about 500 employee, the reporters, editors, photographers, graphic designers and lot more depending on the company for their livelihood. At that moment, I searched for the most influential people in my network who might be able to help me navigate through this crisis. I thought of Raymond, a seasoned media expert with a knack to turn around struggling outlets. There was Winifred, a well-connected investor with a passion for independent journalism. Then there was Mayor Philips a wealthy career politician who helped numerous company weather their storm. The most powerful man in the city with connections far and beyond. On dailing his number, I feel my finger trembling. I calmed myself waiting for him to pick up. “Hello,” Mayor Philips speaking… “Hello Mayor Philips, thank God i reached you, it's Mr Simon from the Simon's Media Company”. “Ah ah, my very good friend, Mr Simon what's going on? You sound very worried.” “I am worried, Mayor Philips, my company is on the verge of shutting down due to bankruptcy, I desperately need your help.” I stated There was a pause on the other end of the line, and for a moment I wondered if I had made a mistake. But then, the Major's voice came through calm and reassuring. “Alright, Mr Simon” I would help you, I'm offering 15 million dollars, this will help you clear the debts and pay up the employees in the company. This will also provide enough capital to strategize a better plan. The Simons media company have always been respected and held as high esteemed organisation. Its a shame for it to disappear in the dark. Mayor Philips finally said… The huge offer dumbfounded me. Its more than enough to settle the company's debt and reconstruct a working plan. Where are you getting this much to give me,especially when it's not charity? I asked in disbelief Nothing to worry about Mr Simon, I've several connections and you're aware. I'm just to make some call and the money will be available, Mayor Philips said. Thank you for the kind gestures. I expressed my excitement. “No problem, this is absolutely mutually beneficial,my interest are quite personal” Mayor Philips voiced "A sharp gust of wind bit at my skin, raising goosebumps along my arms." as I heard his words. “What are your interest, Mayor Philips?” I queried. “Tell me, how is your beautiful daughter? Sarah, isn't that her name? I believe she's finishing her journalism degree soon." I was taken aback by the sudden change of topic. I had millions of thoughts ran through my mind. “She's fine”, I said hesitantly. After her up-coming exams, she'd become a graduate. She's smart and resilient. “Hmm, such a brilliant girl, family orientated, hardworking and is willingly walking in her father's step. I respect that, Mr Simon. He calmly whispered. My son, Andrew is searching for a wife, we both know that he's divorced couple of years back which messed up his reputation. I want a good girl like Sarah, your daughter to fill that vacuum in my son's life and help rebuild him. My son needs a stable wife. “Major Philips, are you asking me to trade my daughter for money? How can you think of such? I won't sell my daughter to save my company, Never!” I screamed in anger. Mr Simon, I know you do understand the great dilemma your company would pass through if you don't agree to my terms. The news media companies won't hesitate to have this news hung in every corner of the street. The shame will kill you slowly. Think about what's at stake. Your legacy, the livelihood of your employees, your daughter‘s life. It's not like Sarah would suffer in her marriage with my son. Its a way of binding both families together. Fifteen million dollars would also help the company greatly. Mayor Philips confidently spoke. “Is this a threat, Mayor philips?” I abruptly asked I'm just telling you the evens in it, Major Philips cuts in “I need to think about this,” I managed to say. “You have just till tomorrow morning to give me a reply,” Mayor Philips said ending the call from his end. I am shocked and speechless. I feel a rush of anger and pain filling my heart. I thought about my precious daughter and what my company would cost her. “Her future” would she ever agree to this agreement. I sighed. 'There has to be another way,' i whispered. But the weight of Mayor Philips' manipulation threatened to crush the legacy I'd poured my heart and soul into.” Just then I realised I was trapped.