The Gray Man Ch. 41 - Madison 02

** Dear Reader - This story introduces a new main character into the mix - Davey Thompson. Thompson is the CEO of a Private Contracting Firm. Look for stories going forward that feature Mr. Thompson. While I love NonCon - I also have an admiration for D/s which is more Mr. Thompson's flavor. I know that there are those that miss Sean - honestly, I am finding it hard to find Sean in my creative side right now. - Enjoy, ~Pelican **

Gretchen Foster, Allen Babin, Admiral Barnett, Madison Sterling and TJ Gray sat in the overcrowded ballroom of the Royal Palm in South Beach listening to Davey Thompson, the CEO of Strategy Solutions Group speak. The three had made the journey to Miami for The Global Security and Leadership Conference specifically to hear Davey and to hopefully arrange a meeting to follow Allen's dream of partnering Pelican with a Private Contractor firm.

Following her exposure to Ana, Madison had found her own stride the past few months at Pelican. Conrad's health was failing, but Madison wanted to grow and learn more before she moved to the leadership of Sterling Silver Investments - the new name that Madison and her uncle had decided on when she assumed the CEO role. A complete rebranding to reach out to a younger client base.

Dressed in a sharp charcoal suit, perfectly tailored to his athletic build, David "Davey" Thompson stepped up to the podium at the global security conference. His tie, a deep navy blue, was knotted with precision, accentuating the air of authority he carried. With a touch of Southern charm and a no-nonsense demeanor, Thompson engaged the audience, his piercing gaze scanning the room as he began to address the critical topics of communication and negotiation.

The 57 year old Thomspon, with short salt and pepper hair and a graying mustache held the audience in the palm of his hand. Gretchen leaned over to Allen Babin, "Fuck," she whispered, "what would it take for me to work under that man. Damn."

"Ladies and gentlemen," Thompson's voice resonated, "in this complex world of shifting alliances and covert threats, effective communication is the linchpin of success. Whether you're navigating the treacherous waters of international diplomacy or dealing with adversaries in the shadows, or negotiating a corporate merger, the game is still the same. It is your ability to convey intent and understand the motives of others that will be the difference between victory and defeat."

He paced the stage, every step deliberate, exuding confidence. "Negotiation, my friends, is an art. It's about knowing when to listen and when to strike. It's about understanding the language beyond words, deciphering the unspoken truths that lie beneath the surface. In the clandestine world we operate in, the power of negotiation is our shield and sword. You need to see more than you say and know more than your opposition thinks."

Madison leaned over to TJ and whispered in his ear, "Haven't I heard that before? Did you write his speech for him?"

TJ smirked, "He and I have had some of the same bosses and seen some of the same things. Wisdom is wisdom and it's earned and forgotten at your own peril."

Madison chuckled, "I think my ass still burns from that lesson."

As Thompson wrapped up his compelling speech, the audience erupted into applause. As the audience cheered, Gray began to work his way through the crowd. As he approached the steps leading from the stage he was stopped by two men, obviously bodyguards for Mr. Thompson and obviously armed.

Thompson, from his years with the CIA in foreign lands still had flawless situational awareness. As the crowd applauded he saw the tall man crossing the floor with a confident stride and purpose.

When the guards closed the gap so that Gray couldn't pass, TJ locked eyes with Thompson. Without a word being said the two shared a moment that Thompson understood that they had shared a similar history. "He's okay guys, let him through."

The guards stepped aside as Gray moved between them. "Davey Thompson," Gray extended his hand, "TJ Gray, Pelican Intel. Your insights on communication and negotiation struck a chord with me."

Thompson smiled as he shook Gray's hand, "That would be the same TJ Gray that just got his hands dirty in Yemen?" TJ paused as Gray winked, his almost Gray eyes dancing, "I have friends too Mr. Gray."

TJ relaxed, "Mr. Thompson, I believe there's a synergy between our organizations that could elevate both of us to new heights. How about we sit down and discuss the possibilities over a cup of strong coffee?"

Thompson, recognizing the potential for collaboration,. "I'm always open to exploring opportunities, TJ. Let's talk, but I prefer a mojito to coffee after that little dog and pony show." The stage was set for a meeting that could shape the future of global security, as these two powerful figures began to discuss a partnership that transcended borders and boundaries.

Thompson had gone up to his room to change into something a bit less formal for the Miami heat as he and Gray scheduled to meet just after lunch at the outside bar. Under a large umbrella the two men sipped their drinks and began to talk.

TJ told Davey of the birth of Pelican Intel - what their official mission was, and after assuring Thompson's security clearance with Admiral Barnett - what their classified mission was. The two men talked about the realities of US military capability and readiness, the current realities of the world's hot spots, and the need to have a self contained structure that could be deployed to deal with said hotspots or even hold ground into an official US or Ally military presence could fill the gap.

Thompson sat back in his chair, "Could you get Congressional approval on your end? I'm not sure that Senator Davis thinks too highly of me."

Gray shrugged, "Any particular reason that the Senator might balk?"

Davey Thompson laughed, "Because he's a silent partner of one of my competitors. So silent that he put in no capital, isn't officially on the board of directors, but every year gets a nice dividend check for his investment."

Gray nodded, "Fucking DC."

Thompson lifted his glass, "I'll drink a toast to that."

The two men met until late into the afternoon. Allen and Gretchen had to go retrieve TJ from his meeting so that everyone could have dinner. When TJ and Davey stood the two shook hands, TJ nodded, "Thank you for your time. I hope that we will talk more once we get back inside the beltway."

Davey Thompson nodded as he pushed his sunglasses onto his head, "Oh, we will. I think there is potential here. How about we do this. I have my people process some of what we've shared, you have your people do the same and the two of us meet for dinner in two weeks." Thompson looked at Allen and Gretchen, "No slight intended to your leadership team, but as an ancient field guy, I feel more comfortable if the discussions happen between the guys that have been in the field before we bring in finance, legal, etc."

Gretchen was slightly taken aback but quickly recovered, "That's the way we would like to proceed as well." She put out her hand, "Gretchen Foster, Chief Legal Counsel for Pelican."

Davey smiled, "Gretchen Foster from Saban, Knight, and Foster?"

Gretchen blushed, "Formerly, came to work with my cousin and his team."

Davey winked at her, "Cousin? Nice - Dick Saban and my uncle were friends in law school. Dick came to DC and my uncle went back home to coal country in southern WV. When my uncle was elected to Congress, Dick and Nancy took him under their wings to show him around DC. They are good people."

Gretchen smiled, "The absolute best."

Thompson looked at TJ and smiled, "If you could lure this beauty away from Dick Saban, I have no doubt that we can do business together. I'll call you next week to square away the time and place."

TJ nodded, "Sounds like a plan to me. Thank you for your time."

Davey smiled, one dimple creasing his tanned face, "The pleasure is mine." He looked at Allen and Gretchen, "It was a pleasure. I hope to see more of you soon."

When Thompson walked away Allen chuckled, "Hey Gretch, I think Davey might be smitten with you."

Gretchen laughed, "Oh God, I hope so. Damn that is one fine man."

Allen Babin was as excited as a kid at Christmas. The dream of having contractors to marry to the intelligence side of things just felt right to him. Between his work with The Admiral and Gretchen they had put together a plan for TJ to share with Thompson. The idea of the two companies walking a parallel path kept things exciting around the headquarters.

This was an area where Madison Sterling came into her own. This was what she was born into. Her entire life had been surrounded by talk of mergers, acquisitions, partnerships. There were more than a few times during the week that she even heard TJ praise her work which sounded like a song to her ears. Gray had awakened something in her that was deeper than sexual - she wanted him to be proud of her and she worked hard to make that happen.

The boardroom at Pelican Intel was a realm of polished surfaces, dark wood, and the low hum of anticipation. Allen Babin wanted this space to be a seat of power, where guests would understand that they were in a rare place that was backed by wealth and knowledge.

On Friday morning, in that boardroom the powers of Pelican Intel had gathered. Thompson had called and invited TJ to his home on Tuesday night for steak and time to talk. The folks at Pelican had busted their asses to pull information together to brief their boss. Seated around the table were Allen Babin - the financier of the operation, Gretchen Foster, Pelican's Legal Advisor; Admiral Stephen Barnett, the seasoned military tactician and also a Deputy Director at the highest levels of the intelligence community; and TJ Gray, the dynamic CEO with a vision for the future. The air crackled with the potential of what was about to unfold.

In the center of the room, a large screen displayed a synergy map outlining potential collaboration zones between Pelican Intel and Strategic Solutions Group. As the meeting commenced, the atmosphere became charged with the electricity of strategic minds converging. Gretchen watched her cousin and she could see by his concentration that he was serious about plans to go forward. Serving as the 'XO' of the team Gretchen looked to Allen Babin. "Allen, between you and Senator Davis and Admiral Barnett this place came to life. What's your gut telling you and have you had a conversation with The Senator?"

Babin, leaning back in his chair, "I need to confess, the idea of partnering with a Security Group is my dream. Partnering with SSG is a dream come true. I truly think that our best option is a marriage of equals." Allen looked around at the confusion, "Hear me out. We partner under an umbrella company. A company that we can take public and sell shares and trade on one of the exchanges. TJ has become very comfortable around those types of finance folks. The influx of capital would make this new partnership a true force in the world. As for the Senator, I think as long as the campaign contributions keep flowing he will be just fine."

Gretchen Foster, her gaze intense, chimed in. "Intelligence provides the eyes and ears, but security is the muscle needed to act on that intelligence. I agree Allen, together, we'll be an unstoppable force. I had not thought about the umbrella company and going public. That has serious merit." Gretchen turned to the Admiral, "Sir..."

Admiral Barnett, a man of few words but immense gravitas, nodded in agreement. "A partnership with Strategic Solutions Group strengthens our position globally. Their expertise in covert operations aligns perfectly with our intelligence-gathering capabilities. Thompson has some Tier 1 Assets that know the job, know the risk, and know to keep their mouths shut. Personally, I'm all in - also, the Director has assured me that she is on board as well."

Gretchen, with a glint in her eye, looked to the chairs outside of the table and nodded, "Madison, show us what you've got."

Madison Sterling, as nervous as she had ever been. First this was not a grad school proposal, this was real world stuff with real world people. Second, she desperately wanted to impress Gray. She took a deep breath and slowed her heart rate. "The initial investment is substantial, but the long-term gains are undeniable. With the combined strength of Pelican Intel and Strategic Solutions Group, we'll attract high-profile clients and secure lucrative contracts. As you know Sterling Silver Group has handled many Initial Public Offerings over it's existence. I will touch base with a couple of our analysts and can get you an IPO projection by close of business tomorrow."

Gretchen nodded, "Confidential - make sure of no leaks."

Madison nodded, "Yes, Ma'am."

Gretchen turned to Elizabeth Johnson. "Talk to me Liz,"

Elizabeth Johnson was an impeccable logistics expert. She made things happen when they needed to happen. "Logistically, we're looking at a seamless integration. SSG has some FOB's" she paused, "Forward Operating Bases that will allow us jumping off points all over the worlds hot spots."

As the discussion reached its zenith, Allen Babin raised a compelling point. "In unity, we find strength. A partnership of this magnitude will elevate Pelican Intel to unprecedented heights. Are we all in agreement?"

One by one, heads nodded around the table, and the mood in the room shifted. Gray nodded as his green eyes scanned the room, "So, it's a green light?" As his eyes shifted to each person he saw a head nod, "It's unanimous, then. Madison, get me updated numbers, I'll meet with Thompson and we can roll the dice."

Two nights later, Gray pulled into the circular drive of the estate of Mr. Davey Thompson. TJ wasn't sure what to expect but what he found he did not expect. The lawn and the landscaping was immaculate, the house was large but tasteful. There were no guard towers or former Tier 1 guys with M-4's slung over their shoulders patrolling the perimeter.

He pulled the Lexus to a stop and stepped out into the mild summer evening. The front door opened before he could ring the bell and he was greeted by a stunning young lady, dressed in a sundress. Immediately Gray noticed the ankle bracelet and the same ring/bracelet that Ana had chosen to wear. The only difference with this young woman was that she also wore a black leather choker around her neck.

She smiled as she opened the door, "Mr. Gray, welcome. We have been expecting you. Sir is out on the patio waiting for you, if you will follow me."

Gray followed her through the house. TJ loved the house. Very simple, very minimalist. Leather sofa, two large leather Queen Ann chairs in front of a large built in oak bookshelf. TJ glanced at the titles as he walked by - whatever else Mr. Thompson may have been, he was a well read individual.

When the patio door opened Gray was struck by the amazing aroma of both a barbecue pit and a grill doing what they do best. Davey turned from his smoker and grill when the doors opened. His black and gray Doodle looked at him for permission to greet the new guest. With a quick motion of his fingers the dog stayed where she was watching intently.

"Good to have you here, TJ," Davey grinned, extending a hand.

TJ reciprocated the gesture with a firm handshake, taking in the surroundings. "This place is impressive, Davey."

Thompson smiled as he nodded to the table, "I hope bourbon works for you."

Gray chuckled, "Who would turn down a nice pour of Blanton's."

Thompson laughed, "I'm happy being your chef, but you can pour your own damn drink. Ice is in the bucket."

TJ laughed, "Ice and bourbon are like sauce and ribs. If you want it, fine - if you need it there's a problem."

Davey Thomspon smiled from ear to ear, "I knew I liked you when you came walking up like a swinging dick with a huge set of balls."

Gray laughed, "I know at a conference like that there are a thousand guys just like me that want a moment of your time. Had to shoot my shot."

Thompson smiled, "Medium rare - if you want shoe leather, cook it yourself."

Again TJ smiled, "If I didn't know better I would think that you had done your research."

Davey winked, "Might have, but I have a rule. I cook what I like for me - if folks want it, great, if they don't then it's more for me. This is a carnivore meal, that's all I eat. The steak is the main course and the ribs are the side."

TJ shook his head, "Be careful, I may ask you to marry me if you keep talking like that."

As they settled into the patio chairs, Davey talked about his former life as a Platoon Leader during the first Gulf war. They talked about military life, the joys of barbecue and bourbon, and the crazy world that men like the two of them fought like hell to keep from exploding into a chaotic mess.

Gray listened intently to the more experienced leader, the bond of military service creating an unspoken connection. During dinner, Davey, a master storyteller, began to weave tales of their military exploits, reminiscing about the days when they were in the thick of it. The old war stories created a backdrop for their current discussion on business and collaboration.

Amidst the sizzle and smoke, the conversation shifted to corporate matters. "I've done my research. You have quite a track record, From your time on the team, and since. Taking on The Triad, the Omar's, and Mother Russia herself. I'm impressed."

TJ nodded, "Just like you - Iraq, then afterwards being ahead of the curve in Afghanistan, helping to track down Bin Laden, and some serious work in South America that is so damn classified all I could get was so redacted that I learned nothing."

Davey lifted his glass in respect, "Let's just say South America had to do with an ambassador making some very embarrassing mistakes and I had to work with the wrong side of the ledger to make it go away. You know the bean counters don't like to acknowledge anything where we may look like the bad guy."

TJ chuckled, "All the more reason for organizations like ours."

Davey nodded, "Exactly, I like what you've been doing at Pelican.," Davey remarked. "There's potential for synergy, TJ. We could do great things together."

TJ nodded, acknowledging the strategic possibilities. "A partnership could bring mutual benefits."

As the evening unfolded, Davey leaned in, his voice more hushed. "TJ, there's something else I want to talk to you about."

TJ raised an eyebrow, curious.

"I've been approached about the prospect of a full merger," Davey revealed, surprising TJ with the unexpected twist.

TJ paused, absorbing the information and being careful to not tip his hand... yet. "A merger? That's a significant step, Davey."

Davey nodded, his gaze steady. "I believe it could be the right move. A merger between SSG and Pelican could create a force to be reckoned with, combining our strengths and resources."

The revelation hung in the air, the implications sinking in. The Virginia sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the patio as the two men continued their discussion, exploring the potential of a merger that could redefine the landscape of their respective enterprises.

The two men moved to the firepit where Davey built a fire as the two settled into Adirondack Chairs. That was when TJ showed his cards.

TJ spoke slowly, letting Thompson know that "About the merger. One of the discussions that came up in our working group was exactly that - a full merger with one additional piece."

Thompson leaned forward, "Enlighten me."

Gray smiled, "Full merger, but under an umbrella company. That company is publicly traded. Big infusion of cash, stock options, so on and so on. We determine the initial board."