"It would mean the end of Wallaby," Hank said gravely.
"No, Hank," Matthew countered, turning to face him. "It's just the beginning. ICP would sell millions more Joeys then we ever could."
"Agreed," Hank said. "You just said it yourself. ICP would sell.
No more Wallaby."
As far as Matthew was concerned, it was all the same. He would assuredly be named president of the Wallaby subsidiary, just as he and William had planned almost three years ago. And the thought of eventually taking over William's role at ICP held enormous appeal again, as it once had. He locked onto this as his new goal.
"All in favor of me contacting William Harrell and proposing the merger of ICP and Wallaby, please raise your hands." His own hand stretched so high it hurt his side.
"We'll have to get full board approval," Hank warned, one last effort to counter Matthew's proposition.
Matthew said, "When they find out that Peter has been talking to ICP, I don't see how they can object. Now, all in favor, please raise your hands."
The room teetered on the edge of absolute stillness.
Then, slowly at first, hands rose. One after another, every person in the room raised his or her hand - except Hank Towers.
Once more, all eyes were on him.