His Keeper

Chapter 7

A year prior to leaving the military, the pack talked about what was next for them. They asked each other whether they wanted to live in the same town together? What career path would be best for them as a whole or individually? So, the topic of starting a business together entered their minds. What kind of business would it be? The military had taught them many skills that collectively they would want to incorporate it into their business. As the year and their time in the military was coming to an end, these answers were soon answered. Yes, they all wanted to live in the same town. Yes, starting a business would be an amazing venture for the pack. And the best business that would fit well with their skills and needs would be a security company.

            The day came when all of the pack members were honorably discharged from the military. The pack settled with their families in the sunny state of California, the City of Angels, Los Angeles. After putting all their money together, they realized that they would need someone else to help back their plan and business. So, Nate and Jeff started writing up their business proposal and went on their way to meet with potential business partners. After a dozen or so meetings and multiple rejections, the pack began to feel their dream of starting a security company slipping through their grasp.

A man by the name of Justin Brown reached out to Nate and asked to schedule a meeting to discuss his proposal. During the meeting, Nate and Jeff had a really good feeling about the way Mr. Brown carried himself. He was friendly, cordial, and had a business polish kind of feel to him.  The way he listened to them and took notes about their proposal made them feel confident. As Jeff and Nate were wrapping up their presentation, Mr. Brown spoke “I do have some questions if I may ask.”

Jeff replied, “Please, Mr. Brown”.

After taking a sip of his water, he replied “how many investors have you both approached with your business idea?”

Jeff replied, “over a dozen potential investors, sir.”

Mr. Brown leaned back in his chair, moved his hand towards his mouth in deep thought. “Gentlemen, I’ll be very honest with you, I am excited with the way you both presented your business. Although, when you had sent me the formal proposal in writing I had my secretary run through the numbers, and I would like to make you guys a counter offer, if I can?”

Jeff and Nate stood in shocked silence. They both couldn’t believe what they had just heard. After all the rejections, the we will get back to you, and the you would need to put more money up front before we commit to becoming partners. The pack had finally found someone who looked and seemed interested in investing.

Mr. Brown slid a folder over to Jeff and Nate. “So, I am willing to put up 51% of the cost and you let me handle all of the business aspects of the company. Please keep in mind that I will have the best intentions for you men and your families, and since I am asking for majority control of the company it is only right and fair that I put up more of the money.”

            Over flowing with mixed emotions, Nate and Jeff glance at each other. Nate looking at Mr. Brown replies, “We would like to discuss this with the rest of the members of our team, may I call them right now?”

Mr. Brown nodded. Nate stepped out into the hallway, heart racing, and taking his cell phone out of his pocket calling the guys. He told them about the counter offer Mr. Brown just offered. As the rest of the pack listened intently, there was a collective “Hell yes, let’s do it” response from them. Nate walked back into the conference room, looked at Jeff and Mr. Brown, and said “Mr. Brown, after talking with the others we would like to accept your offer.”