Accidental Marriage With Mr Billioniare
Chapter 171: THE MEETING

Chapter 171: THE MEETING

As Astrid settled into her seat, the lights in the room dimmed, and a projector whirred to life, casting a bright image on the screen behind the one who was about to present.

He stood confidently, a remote control in hand, and began his presentation.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow visionaries, my name is Samuel and I am thrilled to introduce our latest project: the construction of a state-of-the-art, 60-storey skyscraper in the heart of the city."

The room fell silent, with all eyes fixed on the screen as he revealed the design and features of the proposed building.

Astrid smiled at this but her eyes narrowed as she scrutinized the design, her mind racing with concerns about the structural integrity and potential risks associated with the site.

As an architect herself, she knew that the location was prone to soil instability and seismic activity, and she couldn’t help but wonder why he had chosen this site.

But who was she to say anything she was only invited to the meeting and watch not beginning to scrutinize his workers

Samuel’s voice droned on, highlighting the building’s cutting-edge features, from its advanced water management system to its rooftop garden and observation deck.

While Astrid was too busy analyzing the design, her eyes scanned the screen for any signs of weakness or potential flaws.

"As you can see, the building’s unique design will not only provide stunning views of the city but also create a new iconic landmark for our great metropolis," Samuel concluded, beaming with pride.

The room erupted into applause, with many of the guests and investors nodding in approval.

"That is so nice, the presentation is beautifully done," one of the shareholders announced with a small smile.

Everyone showers praises on Samuel while Astrid remains seated, her eyes fixed on the screen, her mind whirling with questions and concerns.

This was going to be a project to watch, and she was determined to ensure that it was done right.

As the lights turned on, Donald’s eyes locked onto Astrid, his expression expectant.

"So... Samuel you have done a beautiful job presenting this, but I would still love to hear more views from my both granddaughters," he announced now looking at Mattie.

"Of course, he did beautifully well... everyone also said so," She retorted, Fonald nodded his head and then glanced toward Astrid.

"Astrid, my dear, as an architect yourself, I would love to hear your thoughts on the project," he said, his voice warm and encouraging.

Astrid hesitated, her eyes darting around the room before settling on the screen behind Samuel.

"It’s fine, Grandfather," she said, her voice measured. "The design is...interesting."

But Donald had noticed the fleeting look of concern on Astrid’s face during the presentation.

He leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Astrid, my dear, I think you are being too polite. You have a keen eye for design, and I value your opinion. Please, tell me what you think."

"Granddad.."

"I can tell something is going on in your mind that you noticed, you are free to let it out."

Astrid’s gaze met her grandfather’s, and she saw the genuine interest in his eyes. She took a deep breath, her shoulders squaring as she prepared to speak her mind.

But before she could utter a word, Mattie chimed in, her voice dripping with malice. "Oh, Astrid’s not exactly an expert in this field, Grandfather. I mean, she’s tried her hand at architecture, but let’s be real, she’s not exactly...seasoned."

Astrid’s eyes flashed with annoyance, but Donald intervened, his voice firm but gentle.

"Mattie, dear, this is Astrid’s chance to share her thoughts. Let’s hear her out, shall we?"

The room fell silent, all eyes fixed on Astrid as she stood up, her movements fluid and confident.

She walked over to the monitor, her eyes scanning the design as she began to speak.

"I would say the way you have presented is beautiful but..." she glanced at the monitor.

"While the design is visually striking, I do have some concerns about the structural integrity of the building," she said, her voice clear and authoritative.

"The site chosen is prone to soil instability and seismic activity, which could compromise the foundation of the building. Additionally, the design seems to prioritize aesthetics over functionality, which could lead to issues with circulation and navigation within the building."

The room remained silent, all eyes fixed on Astrid as she continued to analyze the design.

"Furthermore, the building’s energy efficiency could be improved by incorporating more sustainable materials and design elements. And while the rooftop garden is a lovely touch, it may not be the most practical use of space, given the high winds and extreme temperatures that can occur at such heights."

As Astrid spoke, her words were met with an intense silence, as if everyone in the room was holding their breath.

Donald’s eyes shone with pride, while Mattie’s face grew increasingly sulky. Donald, on the other hand, looked intrigued, his eyes narrowing as he considered Astrid’s points.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Astrid concluded her analysis, her eyes meeting her grandfather.

"I believe that with some revisions to the design, this building could be truly remarkable. But as it stands, I have some serious concerns about its viability."

The room erupted into a flurry of questions and comments, with everyone eager to weigh in on Astrid’s analysis. But Donald simply smiled, his eyes twinkling with pride.

"Well, well, well. It seems we have a true architect in our midst. Astrid, my dear, you have given us a lot to think about." Donald announced.

As the room fell silent Donald nodded, a hint of a smile on his face.

"I think we have heard enough for now. Astrid, your insights have been invaluable, and I believe we have a lot to consider." Mattie let out but Rowan, seated near the front, spoke up first.

"I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed Astrid’s analysis. She’s raised some excellent points, and I think we would be wise to consider them."

The other shareholders nodded in agreement, and soon, a lively discussion ensued. "Yes, I will agree with all she said we need to consider all those patterns she said," another let out.

One by one, they shared their thoughts and suggestions, each building upon the last.

"I think we should work closely with our architects to redesign the building, taking into account Astrid’s concerns about the soil instability," suggested another shareholder.

"Absolutely," agreed another. "And perhaps we could also explore alternative materials and designs that would better suit the site’s conditions."

As the discussion continued, Astrid felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over her. She had taken a risk by speaking up, but it had paid off. The shareholders were taking her seriously, and her ideas were being considered.

But not everyone was pleased. Mattie’s face grew increasingly sulky, her eyes narrowing as she listened to the discussion. She crossed her arms, her lips pursed in annoyance.

Meanwhile, Donald watched the scene unfold with a warm smile. He was proud of Astrid for speaking up and of the shareholders for taking her ideas seriously.

"I think we have a clear direction to take. Astrid, I would like you to work closely with our architects to redesign the building, taking into account the concerns you’ve raised. Let’s work together to create something truly remarkable." Donald added,

Some of the shareholders and executives scramble to make notes and assign tasks.

Astrid, meanwhile, felt a sense of purpose and belonging. She had found her place in the company, and she was ready to make a difference.

She is happy for the person she is becoming, and she can’t help but whisper in her heart.

"Mum... I wish you were here," she thought of how her mum would be so proud of her if she was still there with her.

After the meeting, everyone began to disperse and Donald moved closer to get and patted Astrid’s shoulder with a small smile. Miles also couldn’t help but be proud of her, she had come a long way and for the first time, she was revealing her smartness in front of him.

"I am proud of you," Donald mumbled and with that, he walked out of the conference room.

"Rowan, I want to see you," he announced before Rowan could get the chance to go close to Astrid he nodded and walked out.

Miles also stood from his seat moving toward Astrid, "Well done," he said and also left.

It was now remaking Mattie and Astrid in the conference room. Mattie flared up from her seat dashing toward Astrid as she grabbed her up in anger.

"What is that shit you are playing with?" She asked irritatedly but Astrid didn’t respond and just slapped her hands off.

"Don’t mess with me Mattie, you could also see how everyone in the meeting a few minutes ago got to know I am his granddaughter so..."

"You bitch.." She was about to slap Astrid when Astrid grabbed her hands pushing her back.

"Don’t you dare lift your hand on my face again!" she glanced at her in shock.

"How dare.."

"I have left him for you so don’t you dare, it’s a warning, if you do again I won’t let you go scot-free," Astrid warns, leaving Mattie speechless as she finds her way to the door but stops midway.

"About the company, I am taking it... if I need to do everything I have to get it from you then I will, spoiled little brat."