Channing was overjoyed and rushed to the café Bert had named as soon as he received the call.
Bert arrived shortly after—but not alone. He brought with him a man in a sharp suit. After they sat down, Bert introduced him as his company's lawyer.
Channing didn't understand why Bert had brought a lawyer to meet him. Bert gestured to the man, who opened his briefcase, took out a document, and handed it to Channing. Then he spoke in a professional, official tone:
"Mr. Channing, on behalf of Washington Group and Bert Technologies, we are formally proposing the acquisition of your company, Channing Corp. We have already completed the purchase of the shares held by your other shareholders."
Channing was stunned.
"An acquisition?"
He then stared at Bert in disbelief.
"Why would you acquire my company?"
