Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 36 A Change In Representative
Tanum Corporation was likely the smallest of the six companies shortlisted. This meant that we were. also the least competitive.
Truth be told, I didn’t expect success. I was only here to divert Matthew’s attention.
Companies that wanted to bid on the project gathered in a large conference room. They were waiting for
the ATL Empire’s project lead.
The goal of the meeting was to clarify the project. Each company would also highlight their skills and make an impression.
After five minutes, there was still no sign of the project lead. Whispers began to echo around the room.
Suddenly, the door to the conference room opened, and everyone turned to look.
A young man walked in. He wore a white shirt, black pants, and a black tie. Not only was he tall and poised, but he was also
handsome. It was hard to tell his age, though.
Behind him came a secretary and several project staff. Everyone’s eyes followed him as he walked to the head of the table and
sat down. Then, he scanned the people in the room.
He began, I’m sorry for the wait. Mr. Wright had some urgent matters to attend to, so he asked me to
chair this meeting. I’m Atlas Pierce, and it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
He was succinct and wasted no time. He settled into his seat with an air of authority, but his demeanor was cold.
There was a silent exchange of glances. Many wondered why the project lead, Nick Wright, was absent from the meeting..
The fact that he sent a newbie in his place upset the other representatives, particularly those from the two esteemed companies.
Atlas didn’t give them time to voice their concerns. He declared, “Without further ado, let’s begin!”
He started calling out the name of the first company to present. When he got to Tanum Corporation, he finally looked up and
fixed his indifferent eyes on me. He seemed to know I would be the final speaker.
This was a manageable challenge. I was known for my eloquence back in college, and years of seclusion

hadn’t dulled that skill. After all, I was the one who founded Tanum Corporation.
I chose a different approach than the other five companies. After all, we couldn’t compete with them teamwork and our best new
products.
Being the last person to talk gave me a chance to add to what the others had said. es my presentation.”
His eyes stayed on me, waiting. I gave him an awkward nod and said, “That concludes my
Only then did he shift his gaze. He gave a summary before gathering our materials for further review.
Atlas adjourned the meeting. He gave everyone a slight nod before exiting the conference room. The
other representatives looked puzzled.
A more experienced representative spoke up. “Isn’t he too hasty? Who is this young man, and what does he do? It looks like
they found a last–minute substitute. Given his age, he’s probably just a manager. I
don’t like how ATL Empire handled something as important as this!”
The older rep left with confidence. The others followed suit, each displaying murky facial expressions.
I didn’t share their dissatisfaction. My assistant and I calmly left the building and returned to our company building.
After all, I didn’t leave the meeting empty–handed. I recalled key information from the speeches and gained insight into our
competitors. These gatherings were the best way to understand them.
Fortunately, Tanum Corporation made it to the top six construction companies in Foswood. I was also sure that more chances
would come along in the future. This newfound optimism gave me an idea.
I gathered all the possible information on ATL Empire’s project when I reached my office.
Just then, a call came in from my hometown. My father had a stroke, and I was told to return home quickly.