Chapter 60
Baltimore, Maryland - December 1874
Gabrielle's impatience manifested as a sharp tapping on the cherrywood desk. Every second stretched into an eternity as the meeting with the board of directors and attorneys droned on for nearly two hours. Back in October, she'd returned to Baltimore unsure of what would happen.
The following months had been a whirlwind of negotiations. Mr. Galveston, a seasoned attorney, had become her rock, navigating the legalese and fierce bargaining with the board. Today marked at last, the fourth meeting and final meeting, and with each passing minute, Gabrielle's desire for a definitive answer intensified.
The door creaked open, momentarily breaking the tense silence. Her attorney entered with a triumphant glint in his eyes. He closed the door behind him with a soft click and strode towards her with purpose.
"They've agreed to your stipulation, Miss. Laurent," he announced, his voice warm with satisfaction. "You'll retain thirty-five percent ownership of the company." He slid a document across the polished surface of the desk. "And this," he tapped the paper with his finger, "represents their offer to acquire your remaining shares."
Gabrielle's perfectly manicured hand instinctively reached for the document. Her breath caught in her throat as her eyes scanned the hefty sum listed. It far surpassed anything she'd anticipated.
"And my family name?" She managed to ask, her voice surprisingly steady despite the whirlwind within.
"Permanent," Mr. Galveston confirmed with a reassuring smile. "That was a non-negotiable point for you, and they understood."
"Then it's settled," she said, a barely perceptible shrug betraying the complexity of her feelings.
"Indeed," her attorney replied, his voice laced with a hint of finality. "As far as relinquishing control of the company, yes. However, your remaining shares will continue to generate dividends, providing you with a steady income."
Gabrielle took a deep breath, grounding herself. This was the moment she'd been working toward. A bittersweet culmination of months of strategic planning and emotional turmoil. Steadier now, she poised the pen over the contract ready to sign.
"Alright," she declared, her voice firm with a newfound resolve.
"Excellent," Mr. Galveston beamed. "With the sale complete, I can put you in touch with a reputable investor for your future endeavors. With your vision and the capital at your disposal, the possibilities are endless, Gabrielle."
"Thank you, Mr. Galveston," she replied. As she signed the contract with a flourish, a wave of freedom washed over her. This wasn't just an ending; it was the beginning of a fresh start, a chance to forge her own path, one guided by her own desires and dreams.