"As a condition for our cooperation, I require a 50% equity stake in the company." Sylvia declared with unwavering directness as soon as she took her seat.
Arthur narrowed his eyes, probing, "Why is that?"
She grinned lightly, her eyes sparkling.
"The reason is simple. I possess the exclusive formula for Gucci Company and hold a top-tier position in the international perfume industry. Innovation is my forte. I believe President Bridgewater has already conducted market research. Gucci Company's downfall can be attributed to its lack of an authentic formula and innovation. Customers have lost the essence of the original, and their inner desires remain unsatisfied. Regrettably, there is no alternative but to relinquish it."
His interest piqued, and a glimmer danced in his eyes.
Indeed, he had invested a considerable sum in hiring international experts due to his comprehensive market research.
Everything Sylvia Lancelot had articulated was undeniably true.
"If Mr. Bridgewater refuses to comply, then there's no basis for our collaboration." Sylvia stated with evident impatience as she promptly rose from her seat.
"But I would like to impart that I have other irons in the fire. The downfall of Gucci Company won't elude me. While you may have wealth, your wife's company may not be salvageable. It extends beyond mere damage to her reputation. Consider this." she concluded, laying bare his vulnerabilities, before pivoting to depart.
Arthur was well-known for his desire to maintain his reputation, and Sheryl Lancelot was, after all, his wife. The humiliation of Gucci's fall would inevitably bring mockery upon him.
"Alright, I agree." he declared just as she was about to exit the room, his magnetic voice piercing the air.
She let out an internal sigh of relief, a glint of cold determination sparking in her eyes.
Reclaiming Gucci's equity was just one aspect of her mission. The primary purpose was to uncover the truth behind her mother's death. If she left now, it would be impossible to proceed with her mission.
While she was willing to fight for her cause, she would not let her mother's memory be tarnished.
However, her demeanor quickly shifted as she beheld Arthur sitting on the sofa, an imposing figure like a steadfast deity. She was momentarily stunned and immediately lowered her gaze, adopting a pitiful appearance.
"Arthur, Gucci Company was a company given to me by my father. You can't dilute the equity with others." she implored as she approached him, took his arm, and began to weep.
Arthur met her gaze, then shifted his attention to Sylvia, seated across from him. He gently touched Sheryl's face, his voice calm and reassuring, "Don't worry, you'll remain the company's director. Your expertise lies in other areas, after all."
Could she become Mrs. Bridgewater?
A glimmer of hope flashed in Sheryl's teary eyes, and she soon recognized the implications. Her entire coquettish countenance lit up with joy.
Was Arthur finally going to propose?
The sparkle in her eyes intensified.

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