NOVEL NEXT 49 The Repercussions
Meanwhile, one of the viewers of the live broadcast of the challenge of Michael Reyes against the Solar Dynamics Corporation is Antoinette Estolas and her daughter Catherine Estolas.
They were stunned to speak after knowing that the invention they thought was fake was actually true and had a lucrative future. Continuing their watch, they saw Francis Peralta standing up to his seat and about to make his way to leave the conference. However, before he could get out, the journalists present sensed an opportunity not to be missed. Cameras flashed and microphones were thrust forward as he navigated a sea of reporters eager for a statement.
One journalist, more assertive than the rest, managed to block his path. "Mr. Peralta, given the conclusive results of today's independent evaluation, can you explain why Solar Dynamics initially dismissed Mr. Reyes's solar panel as fraudulent? Was there an attempt to protect the interests of your company by undermining a potentially disruptive technology?"
Francis, momentarily caught off guard by the directness of the question, hesitated. The room fell into a hushed anticipation, waiting for his response. "Our initial assessments," he began cautiously, "were based on preliminary findings. We are committed to fair competition and innovation in the renewable energy sector."
Another journalist, not satisfied with the response, pressed further. "But doesn't this incident suggest a conflict of interest, perhaps even a deliberate attempt to stifle innovation that could challenge Solar Dynamics' market dominance?"
It was this question that seemed to strike a nerve. Francis's demeanor shifted; his face tightened, and his voice took on a sharper edge. "Our company has always been at the forefront of renewable energy innovation. Suggesting that we would sabotage potential advancements is not only offensive but entirely baseless."
As the questions continued, each more probing than the last, Francis found it increasingly difficult to maintain his composure. The room's energy was palpable, with every reporter vying for a statement that could hint at scandal or wrongdoing.
Finally, with the pressure mounting, Francis lashed out. "This line of questioning is ridiculous! Our evaluation process is rigorous and transparent. Any insinuation otherwise is an attempt to discredit not just me, but Solar Dynamics as a whole." In the wake of Francis Peralta's heated response, the atmosphere in the room shifted palpably. The journalists, sensing vulnerability and perhaps a deeper story beneath the surface, became more aggressive in their questioning.
One reporter, not deterred by Francis's outburst, followed him, microphone in hand, as he tried to leave. "Mr. Peralta, if the evaluation process is as transparent as you claim, why was there such a discrepancy between your company's initial assessment and the results of the independent evaluation? Can you provide specifics about the 'preliminary findings' that led to the dismissal of Mr. Reyes's technology?"
Another journalist chimed in, her voice cutting through the din of the room, "And if it's all about fair competition, why did it take a public challenge for Solar Dynamics to agree to an independent evaluation? Doesn't this suggest that Solar Dynamics was trying to avoid scrutiny?"
The questions continued to fly, each more pointed than the last. "Is Solar Dynamics prepared to issue a formal apology to Mr. Reyes for the damage caused by the false allegations?" "How will Solar Dynamics ensure that such a discrepancy doesn't happen in the future?" "Does Solar Dynamics view Mr. Reyes's technology as a threat to its market position, and was that a factor in the initial dismissal?"
Francis, now cornered and visibly frustrated, raised his voice over the clamor. "Look, the solar energy industry is complex and highly competitive. Decisions are made based on the information available at the time. As for an apology, that's a matter for our public relations department. I assure you, Solar Dynamics operates with the highest standards of integrity."
But the reporters were relentless, their aggressive questioning reflecting not just a quest for truth but also the broader implications of the day's events for the renewable energy sector. "But isn't integrity about admitting mistakes and correcting them? How can the public trust Solar Dynamics after this?"
Unable to provide answers that satisfied the gathered media.
***
Back at Antoinette's office. Seeing that Francis had left the conference room, she grabbed her cell phone and dialed his number. It took four rings before Francis could answer.
"Hello…Mrs. Estolas," Francis said.
"Hello, Francis, I just saw you storm out from the media, and I must say, I'm quite disappointed in you right now. You lied to me when you said to me that Mr. Reyes's invention was fake. For that, I don't even think I can trust you. So, I suggest that you prepare for the repercussions. Effective immediately, I will be divesting from Solar Dynamics Corporation. I cannot, in good conscience, continue to support a company that engages in such unethical practices."
Francis Peralta's response was a mix of desperation and disbelief. "Mrs. Estolas, please reconsider. Your investment is pivotal to our upcoming projects and expansion plans. We were acting on the preliminary data available to us at the time. This is a misunderstanding that can be rectified."
Antoinette, however, was firm in her decision. "Francis, as an investor, I have always advocated for transparency and integrity in all my business dealings. The failure of Solar Dynamics to uphold these values in its assessment of Mr. Reyes's technology has led me to question the governance and ethical compass of the company. It's not just about the loss of potential innovation; it's about the principle."
She continued, employing a tone that was both regretful and resolute. "Furthermore, the market's reaction to today's revelations will undoubtedly reflect on Solar Dynamics' stock performance. The public trust has been compromised, and I must mitigate risk exposure for my portfolio. I expect a full divestment process to be initiated promptly. Please have your finance and legal teams prepare the necessary documentation for an orderly withdrawal of my investment."
Francis tried to interject, "Mrs. Estolas, there's still a way to turn this around, to leverage the situation. We can offer Mr. Reyes a partnership, integrate his technology with our resources, and share the market. It could be beneficial for all parties involved."
Antoinette, however, was not swayed. "While I appreciate your attempt at finding a solution, my decision stands. This incident has revealed more than just a dispute over technology—it has exposed a systemic issue within Solar Dynamics that I cannot overlook. I wish you and your company the best in navigating the forthcoming challenges. Goodbye, Francis."
As she ended the call, Antoinette leaned back in her chair, contemplating the implications of her decision. If she knew that Michael's invention was genuine and legit, she would invest in him.
"Catherine…do you still have contact with Mr. Reyes? I want to talk to him."
"Uhm…mama…are you sure? Like I don't know, there's some distance between us these past days."
"Distance? How come? Isn't he your tutor?" "Yes…but we rarely communicate ever since I told him the solar panel he invented was fake." "Then, communicate with him again, tell him that it was a misunderstanding. Find a way to reach out. Given today's developments, it's crucial we discuss potential investment opportunities with him directly," Antoinette instructed, her tone indicating the seriousness of her intentions.
"Well, I'm giving him his salary tomorrow for his service, perhaps I can try tomorrow mama."
"Okay good."