Free Terminal Value by Thomas Waite Page A

they don’t want me to be distracted from running my division.”
    â€œWhat a load of crap,” said Tony, slamming his hands on the desk.
    A moment of silence draped over the group. Rob finally said, “Dylan, I know you’re not going to like my saying this, but this isn’t our firm anymore. It’s a stupid decision, but Art’s in charge now.”
    Dylan stared at Rob. He felt his anger rising again. “I’m well aware of that fact, Rob. I’ve spent the last two weeks educating Art, beating this stuff into his head, and, frankly, it’s difficult to educate someone in that timeframe about stuff that’s taken me years to learn. I just don’t want to see him fuck this up.” His last sentence trailed off into oblivion.
    The room dropped into a stony silence as Dylan realized he had stooped to shouting at his friends. He didn’t know why he was suddenly so angry with Rob. “Listen, I’m sorry,” he said. “I guess I’m angrier about this than I realized. Of course you’re right. There are going to be changes, and this is just the beginning.”
    Rob nodded his head but said nothing more.
    â€œI don’t know, guys,” Heather said, breaking the mood. “This doesn’t seem right at all.”
    â€œMaybe,” said Rob, “but it isn’t the end of the world. Look at how many people Art’s made wealthy. Our employees are going to be ecstatic when we go out.”
    â€œUnless Art fucks up,” Dylan added, allowing his anger to reappear.
    â€œJust keep telling yourself that becoming famous and getting rich in the process is the best revenge,” said Rob.
    â€œIt’s not all about the money, Rob!” Heather raised her voice. “It’s about changing how people interact and making our employees happy.” She paused. “Look, Dylan, they’re completely wrong, that’s all. Don’t let these guys get to you.”
    Dylan sat back against his chair and sighed. “I know.” He looked at Heather. She said nothing more, just slowly shook her head.
    â€œYou know the old saying, Dylan,” said Tony. “You can’t fight City Hall.” He glanced at his watch. “I have a few things I have to clean up, and then I’m heading home.”
    â€œYeah, me too. I’m on call for any last-minute questions from Art.” Dylan turned to Rob and Heather. “I suppose you two have plans for this weekend?”
    â€œI’m going to a friend’s art opening,” said Heather. She glanced at her watch. “And I’d better be on my way. See you all Monday.” She grabbed her jacket and rushed out the door.
    â€œI’m out of here too,” Rob said. “I’ve got to see Rich before he leaves.”
    Tony strolled over to the door and waited for a moment, then turned back to Dylan. “Why do you really think Art and Christine cut you out of the road show?”
    Dylan considered the question. “I think they just don’t like having any competition. Maybe Art wants to be the big shot—you know? Doesn’t want one of the new kids around showing him up.”
    â€œWell, maybe there’s more to it than that. Maybe there are other forces at play here.”
    â€œWhat the hell is that supposed to mean?” Dylan asked.
    â€œHey, forget it. I’ve just got a lot on my mind. Shouldn’t have said anything.” Tony turned and walked out the door without further comment.
    Dylan returned to his desk and flopped down into his chair. Jesus. So many cryptic comments. Why doesn’t he just speak so I can understand him? Dylan stared at the door, wondering exactly what message Tony was really delivering.
    * * *
    April 19, 4:45 p.m. Boston
    Tony’s rubber-soled shoes trod silently across the thick carpet as he approached his office. The technology team had departed, except for the young man with the orange hair, who was