Though I must admit, they chose their figurehead well. Very photogenic. " "Almost rehearsed. " Tariq agreed. "Like one of those mechanical dolls that walks and talks on command. " He mimicked a stiff marching motion with his fingers. Their laughter mingled with the fountain splash. A few feet away, a diplomat's wife glanced over curiously, then away again.
Nia waited until their amusement faded. Then she spoke, her Arabic flowing as naturally as theirs. "Gentlemen, if you wish to discuss my intelligence and authority, you should at least do so accurately. " Her pronunciation was perfect, each word precise and clear. "I built this company from nothing into a global leader in water infrastructure. I understand not only the technical specifications, but also the human cost when deals like this are corrupted by arrogance. " The men's faces froze.
Omar's glass slipped slightly in his grip. Tariq's smile vanished as if wiped away. Your Arabic is Omar started. Fluent. Nia finished for him.
My father taught me. He believed knowledge was power and dignity was armor. She stepped closer, her voice still calm but carrying across the terrace. He also taught me to recognize when I'm being underestimated. Other conversations around them had stopped.
The fountain seemed suddenly louder in the silence. Ms. Albright. Omar recovered quickly switching to English with a diplomatic smile. Clearly, there has been a misunderstanding.
No misunderstanding at all. Nia replied also in English. Her voice carried clearly to the growing audience. You were perfectly clear in both languages. But since we're speaking English now, let me be equally clear.
Aegis Global Water Systems is withdrawing from the agreement effective immediately. A sharp intake of breath from several listeners. A whispered translation nearby. Tariq's face darkened with anger. You cannot, he began.
I can and I have. Nia cut him off. This deal requires my signature. You won't have it. $900 million, Omar said smoothly still trying to salvage the moment. Surely we can discuss this like reasonable like serious men?
Nia asked. The words hung in the air between them. No. We cannot. You made your opinion of my leadership quite clear.
I'm simply agreeing that we shouldn't proceed. More guests had drifted onto the terrace. Someone near the door was whispering a translation to their companion. A woman in diplomatic dress was nodding with quiet approval. "This is emotional and unprofessional. " Tariq snapped, his charm evaporating entirely.
"On the contrary. " Nia replied. "This is leadership. You assumed I was a decoration because that was easier than respecting me as an equal. That kind of arrogance makes me question every aspect of this deal. " She lifted her chin slightly. "I won't put my company's reputation behind partners who mistake rehearsed compliance for competence. " A burst of applause started from one corner of the terrace.