Businesswoman Chapter 151

A portfolio opened. The digital display of Atkinson’s businesses unfolded like an accordion. Over two hundred companies resided on his computerized investment platter. He looked at all of the data and noticed that something was amiss.

One of his companies incorporated in Delaware, but headquartered in Houston, Texas, had shown almost no growth during the past three quarters.

They had obtained revenue but banked very little profits. They made cereal geared for kids and big kids, too.

He investigated. With a phone call to the CEO, Max Singles, he sought a reason why this happened.

“Hey, Paul,” Singles answered in an even tone. It was like he had just sipped some cold water.

“Max, what’s going on with the numbers?”

“We’re doing good business, we just can’t seem to post earnings versus what we’re spending. It’s an uphill battle. We’ve been flanked by everything from weevils to customers demanding certain flavors or else they’ll boycott. It’s a mad scene.”

“Do I need to come down there?” Atkinson asked with a stern voice. A sense of sincerity and a genuine want to help enveloped his words.

“No, it’s nothing like that. We’re struggling, but we’re not stranded on the block,” Singles shot back.

“I’ll do it. I’ll get everybody fired up and ready to pull in those profits.”

“I appreciate it, Paul. I know your portfolio is bursting at the seams with various businesses. Don’t let my troubles interfere with your daily grind.”

“It’s really no trouble. I can even do a video conference and check in with your C-suite. I can’t do much in the way of the weevils, but I can offer you my expertise.”

“I appreciate it, Paul.”

“You know you don’t have to worry around me, Max. This can all be solved with a few stylus strokes.”