"Well... Sounds like a hassle."

"It's really not that much of a hassle."

Lance found himself at a loss for words. Clearly, Bettie wouldn't be the one inconvenienced by this arrangement. He came to realize this fact. He knew he could voice his concerns about the contracts. But he also knew she wouldn't budge on making any changes.

Without further questions, Lance asked, "Okay, then. When do we sign the contracts?"

"So, you're on board?" Bettie looked surprised. As she drafted the contracts, she intentionally included several terms that benefited her. She had anticipated Lance would negotiate further, but his immediate contracts caught her off guard.

"Yes," Lance confirmed with a nod.

Bettie paused, puzzled. Clearly, this contracts wasn't in his favor.

Agreeing to it meant he'd essentially be working for her, yet he consented without hesitation. Maybe she could propose a few additional terms?

Noticing Bettie's hesitation Lance's smile twitched slightly. “Let's keep things fair, shall we?"

"You said you're okay with this." Bettie inquired. "So, are we ready to sign the contracts now?"

"Sure."

Just as Bettie was about to get up, Lance added, "Oh, and the contracts didn't specify a wedding date. I propose we set it for October."

Bettie was taken aback and immediately objected, "No, it's just the start of September now. How can we pull off a wedding in October? Besides, I've never had a boyfriend, and now suddenly I'm supposed to hold a wedding? My parents will never go for it. My dad might even get suspicious. We should act Like we're dating in front of them and plan the wedding for early next year."

"That's too far off. What year is your brother in at university?"

Lance asked.

“He's a sophomore."

Lance explained, "He could intern at the company in his senior year. That means I need to take control of the company within two years and earn the senior leadership's support. I can only join the company after we're married. We've got just a year and a half left. Time is tight. Do you get it?"

Bettie paused and then asked, "Is time really that tight?"

Lance assured Bettie, "Yes, it is. I need to get to know the business well and secure my position there. Only by achieving something can we attract support. Otherwise, why would anyone back us?"

What did the shareholders value? They were interested in tangible profits, not abstract concepts. They would support whoever could grow the company, boost its performance, and increase the value of their shares.