My Sweet Escape

Toffee

2:00 P.M.

Dave’s POV

I arrived just on time.

“Alex, take grandma to my office.” I hurriedly told Alex as he handed over my coat.

I entered the conference room. There I saw my dad sitting at the center of the long table while looking at the files in front of him. There were about twenty shareholders seated around him. They all looked at me as I entered as if saying “Why is he here?” I just walked passed them nodding in greeting, ignoring their negative looks. Thinking to myself, “One day, I can prove my worth.”

I sat on my seat near my dad then Alex entered and went to my direction. He handed me my Ipad and whispered, “Your grandma is okay. Just concentrate on this meeting,” I nodded.

“I am honored to see you all here today.” My dad spoke in his deep baritone voice. “It’s been awhile since the attendance is complete.” He said while looking at my direction. As if saying that I am the one who is always absent. “First of all, I would like to congratulate the Team of the Vice President for once again accomplishing their mission in the South East Asia and for hitting the target sales in the region.” He said admiringly.

Everyone applauded in admiration. 

The company VP is my biggest competitor. He is Tom Valenzuela. The son of the CEO. He is the favorite and the bet to be the next CEO, then the next president. This is why they all hate me. Because they know that whether I work or not, I will be the next president. I am the sole heir.

“Thank you, Mr. President. It is my pleasure to be of service to this company.” Tom said in all pride.

“Congratulations, Tom. Well, that is really your job and you have to make good for us all. Am I right?” I said sarcastically.

Now I can see everyone’s eyes on me. I caught their attention again. My dad looked embarrassed and annoyed at my remark.

“Since, Dave already spoke. I think, I have to announce the new project that I am planning. I need to send somebody to Russia next month to do the necessary research and feasibility studies in the region. I initially assigned the Planning Team to go there on Monday to set up the small facility and find out if we can set up our hub there. As you know, the biggest manufacturing and plantation is in Moscow and they are the biggest supplier in Europe. As I heard from a source, there were times when they could no longer keep up with the demand. Now this is where we will come in.” My dad said in a determined tone. He never failed in any of his endeavor. He is quick witted and has a strong pulse when it comes to business.

“I am sending Dave to man this team.” He looked at me directly as if saying, “You can’t say no. This is the time to prove yourself.”

“What?” I said in disbelief. “Me?” As if lightning struck me. I was about to say no but something in me said, “Sure, Mr. President. You can trust me on this.” I blurted out loudly. Then I heard whispers from around the room.

“This is a failed project.” Said one of the shareholders.

“Are you sure about this Mr. Lee?”

“This might be a losing investment” said another one.

But my dad looked firm. He stood up and said, “This is on me. This will be the legacy that I will leave behind before I retire.” Then he left the room filled with confidence while I was filled with doubt.

“Congratulations, Dave.” Tom came to me and held his hand waiting for me to shake it. As if signaling my downfall and telling me that the presidency will soon be his. So I shook his hand and accepted the challenge.

“Thank you, Tom. I guess I will not see you for a long time. Make sure that when I return, you will be ready to present your projects to me coz I will be sitting there soon.” I said while pointing towards the president’s chair. Tom looked pissed and left.