“Checks and balances.”
“Exactly. Keeps you honest. Keeps Viktor engaged. Makes this an actual partnership instead of you controlling everything with Viktor as a figurehead.”
I review the implementation timeline. Six-month transition period. Gradual integration of operations. Training for key personnel. Clear milestones and deliverables.
“This is thorough,” I say.
“It needs to be. You’re restructuring a three-year acquisition plan. Every detail has to be perfect, or it falls apart.”
“Financial impact?”
Pavel pulls up projections. “Year one profit decreases eight percent compared to the full takeover model. Year two, you’re at parity. Year three, you’re ahead by four percent because Viktor’s operational knowledge keeps client retention high.”
“Long-term?”
“Five-year projections show twelve percent higher profitability than the takeover model. Partnership structure creates stability. Reduces friction. Maintains institutional knowledge. Everyone wins.”
I study the numbers. They support the strategic decision. This isn’t sentiment. This is smart business.
“Legal vulnerabilities?” I ask.
“Minimal. The partnership agreement includes standard protections. Non-compete clauses. Confidentiality requirements. Dispute resolution mechanisms. If Viktor tries to leave or work against you, you can buy him out at reduced valuation.”
“And if I want to exit?”
“You can’t. Not for ten years. That’s the commitment.”
26
ANNA
The twins’fifth birthday is just a little over a month away.
I’m in the kitchen with Elena, making a list of everything we need. Decorations, cake flavors, party favors. Mila wants purple everything. Alexei wants trains. We’re trying to figure out how to combine both themes without it looking chaotic.
“What about purple trains?” Elena suggests.
“Do purple trains exist?”
“We can make them exist. Paint, glitter, imagination.”
I’m writing that down when I hear Luca’s voice from down the hallway. His study door must be open. Pavel’s voice responds. I can’t make out words, just the low rumble of conversation.
“I’ll check the supply closet for paint,” Elena says, heading toward the back of the house.
I keep writing. Purple trains. Glitter. Cake with both themes somehow.
“The acquisition timeline is solid.” Pavel’s voice carries clearer now. “Everything is in place for the final phase.”
I stop writing.
“Good. I want this executed perfectly. No mistakes.”
“The asset transfer documents are ready. Just need your signature to finalize.”
“I’ll review them again before I sign. This needs to be seamless.”
My pen hovers over the paper. Acquisition timeline. Final phase. Asset transfer.
