Chapter 2 DRIVEN BY LEGACY

It was 8am in the morning and I was already at work. I received a mail from Chris,he had already sent me the company data and it wasn't looking good. I got a call from my dad. I was needed in the conference room.

I walked into the conference room, where my parents, John and Catherine Thompson, already sat. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm pastries filled the air, a comforting familiarity.

"Morning, sweetie," Catherine,my mom said, as I hugged her tightly.

"Morning, Mom. Dad." I greeted as I took a seat beside my father, my eyes scanning the spread of documents and financial reports.

My father has been my role model since birth considering that I gained all my guidance and training from him. My father,John Thompson has always been the patriarch of the Thompson family and current CEO of Thompson Enterprises, alongside his wife, Catherine,my mother. A visionary leader and seasoned entrepreneur, my dad has dedicated his life to building the family business into a global conglomerate.

At 55, my dad exudes confidence and authority, his presence commanding attention. His chiseled features, piercing blue eyes, and distinctive gray hair convey a sense of wisdom and experience. His sharp mind and strategic thinking have navigated Thompson Enterprises through turbulent times, cementing its position as an industry leader.

My father's childhood was marked by hard work and education which of course I took after him in that aspect. Growing up as the son of Edward Thompson, the founder of Thompson Enterprises, my dad was immersed in the family business from a young age. He spent countless hours learning from his father, absorbing the values of innovation and perseverance that would shape his own leadership style.

As a youth, my dad committed himself to expanding Thompson Enterprises, driven by a fierce loyalty to his family's legacy. He worked tirelessly alongside his father, learning every aspect of the business. After Edward's passing, my dad took the reins, propelling the company to unprecedented heights through his visionary leadership.

Under my dad's guidance, Thompson Enterprises diversified into real estate, renewable energy, and advanced technologies. His forward-thinking approach fostered innovation, attracting top talent and strategic partnerships.

As a father, my father has always been protective and demanding, pushing my brother, Alexander and I to excel. His high expectations often put pressure on me, but I respects his guidance and values his expertise. My father's relationship with us, his children is complex, balancing paternal love with professional mentorship.

My father's marriage to Catherine is built on mutual respect, trust, and shared vision. Together, they form a formidable team, supporting each other through life's challenges. Their partnership extends beyond the boardroom, forging a united front in family matters.

Despite his many accomplishments, my dad also faces internal conflicts. The weight of responsibility and maintaining the family legacy test his resolve. John Thompson, cleared his throat. "Alessia, we need to discuss the company's financials. The struggles are real, kiddo."

My expression turned serious. "I know, Dad. I've been reviewing the numbers. We need to adapt, innovate." Although I'm trying to act and looked stress-free deep down I was stressed out by the whole situation. Our company has been hitting rock bottom ever since and inflation is also affecting our market. Everything seems to be falling apart.

Catherine,my mother,eyes clouded. "Your father and I built this company from nothing. We can't let it fail."

My hand covered my mother's. "I won't let that happen, Mom. I promise."

My dad leaned forward, his voice laced with concern. "Alessia, you're shouldering a lot. Are you sure you're ready?"

My jaw set. "I was born ready, Dad. I've grown up with this company. I know its heartbeat."

Catherine gaze softened. "We trust you, Alessia. But remember, family legacy isn't just about business. It's about people, relationships."

I nodded, my eyes locking onto my parents'. "I understand. I'll make you proud."

As they delved into the financial reports, my mind whirled with strategies and solutions. My passion for Thompson Enterprises burned brighter, fueled by my family's legacy.

"We need to cut down cost possibly laying off some workers" I said scanning through some documents and the financial report of the company.

"That would render them jobless. Plus that won't be enough. We need about an influx of $10,000,000." My dad said.

"I have contacted some of our investors trying to talk them into investing more but they are all threatening to pull out because of the current situation of our company" my mother said with a worried expression.

"What if we try contacting new investors? I was looking into contacting Green Tech Inc and see if they are interested in investing in our company" I suggested.

"We have tried that already,we tried as much to persuade them but they are not interested" my dad said in turn.

"What about NeoLife Inc?" I asked.

My parents gave me that look that means "they didn't comply". At this point I was out of idea. I felt empty.

"I would have to meet with other investors and try to get them to invest in our company plus I'll look for other ways to cut down cost without laying off some of our workers" I concluded

The meeting concluded, I walked my parents out, the weight of responsibility settling upon my shoulders.

In the lobby, my mother halted, her eyes searching for mine. "You're not alone in this, sweetie. We're here for you."

I smiled, hugging her tightly. "I know, Mom. I'll make it work."

As my parents departed, I watched, a mix of determination and trepidation swirling within.

I had made a list of investors in all sectors spanning across tech and real estate who would be willing to invest in our company hoping to find one who would gain interest in investing in our company. Maybe that would save us from going bankrupt and eventual loss of our family's hard work and legacy which has spanned over nine decades.