Chapter 39
Chapter Thirty-Nine
WYL
Friday morning, Sam and I met with Jack and Mitzi in his lavish offices.
Sam began the negotiations. “In consideration of your client’s desire to seek what she thinks is hers, we would like to offer a settlement option.”
Cromwell leaned over to Mitzi, conferring on his recommendation for the next steps. “We’re listening, Mr. Collins.”
“My client has authorized me to offer a settlement of five hundred thousand dollars. This offer is contingent upon your client signing legal documents and ceasing any further claims against Sterling Ranch. This includes any and all assets now held or acquired in the future.”
Jack conferred with Mitzi. A hushed conversation took place for over ten minutes. Mitzi shot glares at me. Cromwell used his hand in an up-and-down motion as if encouraging her to accept the offer. A final eye-roll from Mitzi, and Cromwell cleared his throat.
“My client wishes to counter with a million-dollar amount.
Sam stood, gathered his papers, and placed them in his briefcase. "We'll see you in court.”
I stood, unsure about what had just happened. We made our way to the dark oak doors, and Sam reached for the knob.
Cromwell spoke up. “Gentlemen…”
Sam and I turned, standing by the door, ready to leave.
Cromwell and Mitzi carried on a heated conversation. She scowled at me. The conversation was not loud enough to hear clearly, but it was loud enough to recognize anger in her voice.
Cromwell spoke. “I have counseled my client, and she has agreed to the half-million-dollar settlement.”
Sam and I again approached the table. “We are prepared to discuss terms,” Sam said.
“A cashier’s check payable to this law firm is sufficient,” Cromwell stated. “I will draw up papers, as requested. My client will not pursue further compensation from or file any future claims against Sterling Ranch.”
“As soon as my office receives the paperwork, we will deliver a cashier’s check as requested,” Sam said.
Jack Cromwell stood and approached Sam. “Nice work, Mr. Collins. Call me if you ever decide to relocate to the Dallas area.”
“Mr. Cromwell, the pleasure is all mine.”
Sam turned to leave, with me following. We exited the lavish suite.
On the way down in the elevator, I asked, “What just happened?”
“We won. Mitzi would have been a bigger fool to pursue a suit. By threatening to walk away, we forced their hand. The settlement cost you half a million, but you saved more in legal fees. A suit would have netted her nothing but a huge debt and no money.”
I stuck out my hand. “Thanks, Sam. I can’t wait to tell Rod.”