29. Kennedy
29
KENNEDY
F or some weeks, I’ve been assisting Cade in managing a variety of cases, attended meetings and court appointments with him, and, of course, helping to gather additional material for the Mary Larkin case. It doesn’t take long before we’ve gathered a “shit ton” of evidence (as Harris calls it), including testimonies from former employees and unequivocal documentation of the firm’s policies and practices. Janet Lewis is a new addition to our team. She’s a seasoned employment lawyer renowned for her expertise in discrimination cases, and I’m so grateful that Cade brought her on. Her addition to our team fills my heart with so much joy. It’s a testament to Cade’s commitment to leaving no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice for Mary.
We develop what Cade calls “a compelling argument that demonstrates a clear pattern of discrimination and retaliation” on the part of her past employer.
In short, we’re ready for our meeting with our adversaries at Mary’s former firm, set for 11:00 a.m.
In the Vancrest Capital Investments conference room, Cade, Janet, and I sit together on one side of the table in dark leather chairs. The conference room is massive.The walls are painted a calming shade of blue, the kind that’s supposed to give off trust and reliability vibes. But honestly, it just makes me feel uneasy. I can picture the interior designer getting the green light from management, thinking they’re being clever as they try to influence everyone’s subconscious. There are no refreshments, just a huge spotless glass table, and the breathtaking view high above Wall Street.
We’ve strategized and prepared, and now it’s time to confront the representatives of Mary’s former employer.
I quickly skim our strategy notes, then lean toward Cade and glance at the demands we outlined. “Compensation for five years of lost wages, totaling three hundred thousand dollars,” I say, to quickly refresh our memories. Not that he needs a reminder. Still, he’s the one who taught me the importance of double-checking details and ensuring we’re all on the same page, especially before important negotiations. “And of course, we’re adamant about implementing sensitivity training for all employees to prevent future discrimination.”
Cade nods in agreement, eyes sharp and resolute behind his black-framed glasses. He looks every bit the assassin they claim he is, and I couldn’t be more excited to see his deadly skills in action.
People are monsters. And it takes a monster to fight monsters, to restore balance.
Knock-knock.
Our adversaries are here.
Five Vancrest representatives enter the room. Their tailored suits and elegant accessories speak volumes about their wealth and status.
“Good morning,” one of them says in greeting, introducing everyone as soon as they’ve all taken their seats. Before anyone can breathe, he jumps right in. “We’ve reviewed your proposal, and we are open to arbitration.”
Their smug smiles are off-putting, which is probably what they intend.
I keep my composure, but inside, my heart is racing.
“Certainly,” Cade says. “Let’s discuss how we can reach a fair resolution.”
The lead attorney takes his time. “Very well,” he says, grinning. He makes eye contact with Cade, then Janet, then me. “We appreciate your willingness to engage in dialogue. However, we must carefully consider our company’s interests and the broader implications of any proposed resolution.”
“Understood,” Cade responds. “We’re committed to a fair outcome.”
Janet nods. I do, too, mirroring their professionalism, and say, “Absolutely. Let’s find a solution that works for everyone.”
“Before we proceed,” Cade says as he leans forward, his voice with a slightly more intense edge, “I must inform you that we have evidence suggesting that there were attempts made by Vancrest to intimidate potential witnesses.”
Whoa. The way he dropped that bomb! In the dictionary, his photo should be right next to “play hardball.” He’s got it down to a tee.
The room falls silent. I steal a glance at Cade, who is calm as ever. My heart pounds with anticipation. The smug smiles around us? All gone.
“This is preposterous . We would never stoop so low!”
Cade remains unfazed. “I understand your concern, but I’m afraid that the evidence speaks for itself.”
Their lead attorney hesitates for a moment, silencing the others. He turns back to Cade. “That’s not possible. We demand to see?—”
“We’ll be happy to present the evidence to the appropriate authorities,” Cade interrupts him, refusing to hear any more BS. “We’re prepared to pursue all available legal avenues. However, I trust we can resolve these issues amicably, and in a timely manner, to spare both parties unnecessary complications.”
Holy shit.
That was graceful. Quick. Effective. And freaking awesome.
No need for fists, weapons, or theatrics. By the calm, confident delivery of his deadly strike, Cade signals his readiness to escalate the dispute—whether it’s taking the matter to court or pursuing additional claims—based on the evidence we have regarding witness intimidation. He’s also signaling that we’re open to negotiation and settlement, but achieving a favorable resolution will require the other party to meet our demands or offer something of value in return.
“What is sometimes overlooked,” Cade remarks into the silence, “are the candid perceptions of older witnesses. They tend to have a life perspective that’s not easily, let’s say, swayed.”
“Or silenced,” I chime in.
“As the saying goes, ‘With age comes wisdom,’ right?” Janet adds.
Cade nods in agreement, then subtly inclines his head toward me.
With a confident gesture, I open our classified folder filled with pages of employees’ names and swiftly flick through them, leaving no doubt about the large number of individuals involved.
The opposing team exchanges nervous glances, realizing the significance of our revelations. Undoubtedly, leverage in this negotiation has shifted in our favor, and I feel a surge of happiness. Our position has strengthened considerably.
We’re unstoppable. Victory feels closer than ever.
I’m suddenly struck with a wave of admiration for Cade. When his eyes meet mine, there’s an unmistakable “they’re fucked” spark in his pupils. I can’t help but swoon.