“The investment structure works the same way as Casey’s. But Tabitha, your research into alternative business structures is literally what made this possible. You flagged partnership models months ago.”
“You gave me the foundation for external partnerships,” I continued. “Finn’s dad showed me how the ranch works, and suddenly the internal solution clicked into place.”
“And you want me—”
“Oliver’s already agreed, Casey’s in. With you as operations partner, we’d have the leadership team to actually make this work. What do you think?”
When she finally spoke, her voice carried pure excitement. “I think this is exactly what Catalyst needs. And I’m honored you want me as part of it.”
“Is that a yes?”
“That’s an absolutely yes.”
“Thank you for doing the research that made this solution possible. And for being ready to step into the role officially.”
“Always.” I heard her smile through the phone. “Now let’s build something that lasts.”
Oliver, Casey, Tabitha. The core team was in place.
Lennon was the last call, and I’d saved it for a reason.
Lennon’s elevation was acknowledging that the intangible things mattered just as much as the measurable ones.
They picked up on the second ring. “Alex! I’d almost forgotten the sound of your voice! Has Finn compromised you yet?”
“Lennon, you are literally HR,” I laughed.
“Yeah, but you’re going to let me get away with that, aren’t you.”
“Yeah, yeah.” I grinned. “Listen. I’m restructuring the company. Partnership model, employee ownership, the whole thing.” Iskipped straight to it. “I want you as a Senior Partner over HR. Three percent equity. Formal recognition that culture work is just as essential as creative work or operations.”
“What?”
“What do you mean what?” A smile tugged at the corner of my mouth.
“Alex, culture keeper isn’t usually an equity position. Did Oliver agree to this?”
“Who cares what Oliver thinks? He gets to retire. But you know he’d be in. And culture should be an equity position. You’ve built the foundation that makes everything else possible. People stay at Catalyst because of what you’ve created, not just because of the projects or the pay.” I swallowed at the sudden tightness in my throat. “I want you to have real ownership in what we’re building. I owe you.”
“The investment. I don’t have the money to—”
“It’s covered,” I cut them off gently. “Enzo asked specifically if he and Dom could facilitate your stake. They wanted to make sure this happened.”
The silence stretched long enough that I checked my phone screen. When they spoke again, their voice cracked slightly. “They did that for me?”
“They did that for you. You’re that important. To all of us.”
“I don’t—” They stopped. Started again. “Yes. Absolutely yes. I’m in.”
“Thank you for everything you’ve done to make Catalyst feel like home for people. For making us more than just a company.”
“Senior Partner,” they tested the words out, then laughed. “My sister’s gonna lose her mind.”
I grinned. “In a good way?”
“In the best way. She always told me HR work is real work, that what I do matters.” Their voice went warm. “Now I get to prove her right.”
Everything was moving forward, the impossible problem I’d been drowning in since the beginning of the year suddenly transformed into something better than what I’d had before.
