“You’re taking her side too?”
Arthur’s expression remained neutral.
“I’m protecting the integrity of our investment process.”
Victoria turned toward the window.
Beyond the glass, Claire was helping a server carry fresh plates into the main dining room. She spoke briefly with an elderly guest, then moved to another table.
She appeared completely at ease.
Victoria found that unbearable.
She had expected the ownership transfer to be a technical inconvenience, perhaps something that could be challenged or delayed.
She had not expected the new owner to be standing in front of her, calmly explaining that the restaurant was not for sale.
Nor had she expected her own investors to question her judgment.
Arthur closed the folder.
“We should finish dinner, then meet with counsel tomorrow.”
Victoria turned sharply.
“You can’t be serious.”
“I am.”
“We’ve invested months in this.”
“We’ve invested time in exploring it. That is not the same as owning it.”
Victoria looked at the other guests.
No one contradicted him.
She sat down.
For the first time that evening, she had no presentation to deliver, no negotiation to control, and no employee to intimidate into agreement.
She was simply a guest in a restaurant that no longer wanted to sell itself.
At nine fifteen, Claire entered the private room carrying a fresh pot of coffee.
The guests had finished their main courses and were reviewing the dessert menu.
Victoria looked up as Claire approached.
“Leave it there.”
Claire placed the coffee on the sideboard.
“Certainly.”
Arthur rose slightly.
“Ms. Bennett, may I ask you something?”
“Of course.”
“Would you be willing to discuss a possible partnership with our group at some point?”
Claire looked at him.
“Potentially. But not tonight.”
He smiled.
“Fair enough.”
Victoria scoffed.
“She doesn’t know what she’s turning down.”
Claire met her eyes.
“I know what you’ve offered. I also know what I’m responsible for.”
“And what is that?”
“The restaurant, the staff, the customers, and the future of the business.”
Victoria shook her head.
“You’re making an emotional decision.”
Claire replied, “I’m making a business decision that includes people.”
Arthur looked thoughtful.
“That’s a distinction worth discussing.”
Claire nodded.
“When the restaurant is ready to consider outside investment, we’ll evaluate proposals. But I won’t rush a decision because someone believes a family business is automatically inefficient.”
Victoria leaned forward.
“Then you’ll fall behind.”
“Maybe. But I won’t be pressured into selling.”
Claire turned toward the table.
“Would anyone like dessert?”
The guests began reviewing the menu.
Victoria stared at Claire.
“You really think you can keep this place running without help?”
Claire replied calmly.
“I don’t plan to run it alone.”