These small companies were all side investments The Williams Group picked up while expanding its business. The Williams Group had been reaping the rewards of venture capital for years, casting a wide net and investing here and there. Sure, a few of those investments had paid off, but compared to the returns Nora once achieved, they were hardly worth mentioning.
Nora had spoiled everyone’s expectations. Now, even a return multiplied several dozen times was considered child’s play in their eyes. If a company failed to show promise within the set time frame, no one could be bothered to manage it further. Everyone’s energy was limited—who had the time to waste on a hopeless project?
These were all seasoned business veterans; it took only a glance for them to see that Aurora’s assessment was spot-on.
Someone praised her, “No wonder she’s Skyler’s daughter. She’s inherited his business acumen—right to the heart of the matter, pinpointing the problem immediately.”
“Exactly. Her analysis and presentation are flawless.”
“When I was her age, I remember getting chewed out by my manager for botching a proposal. She’s miles ahead.”
“Skyler, your daughter’s every bit as outstanding as your three sons—maybe even more so. I’m starting to get jealous. All your children are exceptional.”
The room filled with praise for Aurora, everyone chiming in.
Aurora herself didn’t look even the least bit smug. Amid the compliments, she maintained a poised, gracious smile, earning her even more admiration.
But among the senior partners loyal to Nora, a trace of concern flickered in their eyes as they watched the scene. Aurora’s proposal was nearly flawless; even if they wanted to find fault, there was nothing to criticize. They weren’t about to stoop to nitpicking for the sake of it.
With Aurora’s brilliant performance setting the standard, Stella—who’d never set foot in the business world—seemed destined to be crushed.
Skyler looked every bit the proud father as his daughter was showered with praise. “You’re all too kind,” he said modestly.
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