Businesswoman Chapter 45

A hand extended and shook those of Loreen and Lisa.

“This is a great opportunity for you. It’s a talk on leadership and self-esteem,” Richmond Nott explained. He had slick black hair that clung to his scalp, showing some signs of gray.

“I’ve done discussions on both, just not at the same time. How will this work?”

Nott didn’t even look in Lisa’s direction. He honed in on Loreen.

“You’ll be talking to about one hundred students at the Mercier. They’re all chemists and physicists touting doctorates but sometimes unable to communicate their ideas thoroughly.” Lisa cleared her throat and Nott continued to peer at Loreen.

“You’ll be getting five million for your time and efforts.”

“Okay,” Loreen added, “What is the split with this? $2.5 million?”

“Split where?” Nott asked.

“With my partner, do you not see her?”

“I was wondering why she was here, honestly. People want Businesswoman. Businessgirl still hasn’t proven herself.”

“Respectfully, if she isn’t on that stage with me, I’m not going to be there. So that's five million dollars you can keep.”

Nott smirked wryly. He finally turned towarde Lisa. “No disrespect to you, of course.”

“Okay.” She noted this with coldness like her tongue was an ice pick.

“If you want me to deliver a speech, you’re going to have to make it ten million. Lisa Conway is worth it.” Lisa smiled. She clasped Loreen’s hand.

“I have to talk to some people, but I think I'll arrange for something. Again, I don’t mean to offend. I think it is in Mercier’s best interests to showcase the two women who are saving people’s businesses all over the state.”

“Why didn’t you say that at the beginning?” Lisa spoke up now. Nott sweated. He swallowed.

“I mean…I wanted to….”

“Understood,” Lisa stood and announced.