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Chapter 125: The Stone that was Slingshotted
Chapter 125: The Stone that was Slingshotted
"Ms. Bridget von Reinmann?" Wei said her full name in utter shock.
"Why are you shocked? You should know who I am especially when we are expanding the SolaraTech market in Europe," Bridget said as she walked towards the conference table with a composed stride. "My involvement in SolaraTech isn't just a statement; it's a strategic move, Mr. Wei. One that you've apparently underestimated."
Wei, still trying to collect his thoughts, managed to find his voice again. "Your reputation in the European market precedes you, Ms. von Reinmann. But I didn't expect SolaraTech to bring out their big guns for a negotiation like this."
Bridget took a seat, her demeanor unshaken. "When it comes to protecting our interests and ensuring the future of SolaraTech, there are no measures too grand," she responded coolly.
"Now, let's get down to why we're all here. We're not just going to discuss the cessation of your illegal activities against us, but also how CinkoSolar can make reparations for the damage done.
I was informed that IT was working around the clock, trying to stop your hack into our company, an effort that was not only successful but revealed the extent of the disruption caused by CinkoSolar's actions. Due to your interference, we experienced a temporary shutdown of several of our services, directly impacting our customers and our revenue."
Wei shifted uncomfortably in his seat, aware of the gravity of Bridget's words. "And how, may I ask, do you quantify this disruption?" he inquired.
Bridget leaned forward, placing a document on the table. "We've conducted a thorough analysis of the impact, including customer service interruptions, loss of revenue, and the additional resources allocated for damage control. The conservative estimate puts the financial impact at approximately 1 million dollars."
"1 million dollars?" Wei exclaimed. "I don't think it would reach that amount."
"It doesn't matter, there is still damage, and I don't think you are in a position to negotiate. My voice alone carries a lot of power in the Chinese Market. I know because I have a lot of partnerships in China in ways you could never imagine," Bridget continued.
And let's not forget the potential legal repercussions and the damage to your company's reputation if this matter were to become public knowledge. The cost of settling this now, quietly and efficiently, is far less than the long-term damage it could cause to CinkoSolar."
Wei's expression hardened as the reality of the situation sank in. The presence of Bridget, her direct involvement, and her leverage in the market clearly changed the dynamics of the negotiation. He glanced at Michael, who remained silent, allowing Bridget to lead the conversation.
"I understand the seriousness of the situation," Wei finally said, breaking the tense silence. "Let's discuss the terms of the settlement. I'm prepared to negotiate a reasonable compensation for the disruptions caused."
"One billion dollars," Michael chimed in, raising one finger.
Wei's eyes widened in disbelief at Michael's sudden interjection. "One billion dollars?" he echoed, unsure if he had heard correctly. The figure seemed astronomical, far beyond the initial estimate Bridget had laid out.
Bridget nodded slightly, indicating that Michael's proposal was indeed serious. "Given the potential long-term impacts on our business, the figure is justified. Imagine if this incident was made public, your stocks, your stakeholders, and your shareholders would undoubtedly react negatively.
The ripple effect could easily cost CinkoSolar over a billion dollars in market value, not to mention the legal fees, fines, and the cost to rebuild your reputation. The number might seem high now, but it's a fraction compared to the potential losses and the assured disruption CinkoSolar would face."
Wei leaned back, processing the information. The thought of such a scandal becoming public was daunting. The financial implications were one thing, but the damage to CinkoSolar's brand and trust with its customers could be irreparable.
After a moment of contemplation, Wei spoke, "I see your point, but one billion dollars is a substantial amount. It's not a figure we can agree to without careful consideration and consultation with our board."
"Stop with the bureaucracy and bogging down the situation," Michael said. "You are the CEO and you are one of the richest men in China, you can afford a billion dollars. This isn't just about compensating for the damage; it's about ensuring this never happens again. It's about setting a precedent."
Wei frowned, his mind racing through the implications. "You're making a bold demand, Mr. Reyes. Even for CinkoSolar, a billion dollars is not a small sum."
Bridget leaned in, her tone firm yet persuasive. "Consider the alternative, Mr. Wei. The public fallout from this incident could be far more costly in the long run, not just financially but also in terms of your company's market position and reputation. A billion dollars now could actually be seen as an investment towards stabilizing your company's future."
Wei sat silent for a moment, his gaze shifting between Bridget and Michael. Finally, he nodded slowly. "Okay…Okay, I accept, one billion dollars it is. But I need time to arrange the payment and discuss the specifics with my board."
Michael nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his expression. "That's understandable. We'll draft a formal agreement outlining the terms we've discussed today."
With that, Michael signaled to Juliet, indicating to her that she must write the settlement agreement as per the discussion.
It took Juliet fifteen minutes to write the settlement agreement and after writing it, she immediately headed to where the meeting was being held and handed it to Michael.
Michael read the settlement agreement.
[Settlement Agreement
This Settlement Agreement ("Agreement") is made and entered into this 10th day of November 2025, by and between SolaraTech Inc., a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the Philippines, with its principal place of business located at Bonifacio Global City, Taguig, Philippines ("SolaraTech"), and CinkoSolar Corporation, a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the People's Republic of China, with its principal place of business located in Shanghai, China ("CinkoSolar").
Recitals
WHEREAS, disputes have arisen between SolaraTech and CinkoSolar regarding allegations of unauthorized access and interference by CinkoSolar into the information technology systems of SolaraTech (the "Dispute");
WHEREAS, SolaraTech possesses claims against CinkoSolar arising out of the Dispute;
WHEREAS, CinkoSolar denies these claims but acknowledges the potential for reputational harm and financial loss to both parties if these disputes are not resolved;
WHEREAS, both parties wish to resolve the Dispute without admissions of liability and to avoid the expenses and uncertainties of litigation;
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:
1. Settlement Payment
CinkoSolar agrees to pay SolaraTech the sum of One Billion Dollars (USD 1,000,000,000) ("Settlement Amount") as a full and final settlement of all claims that SolaraTech has or may have against CinkoSolar arising out of the Dispute. The Settlement Amount shall be paid in full within ninety (90) days of the execution of this Agreement.
2. Non-Disclosure
SolaraTech agrees not to disclose, either directly or indirectly, any information regarding the existence or terms of this Agreement, the negotiations leading to this Agreement, or the circumstances of the Dispute to any third party, except as required by law or to its legal and financial advisors who are under similar obligations of confidentiality.
3. No Admission of Liability
This Agreement is entered into solely for the purpose of resolving disputed claims and avoiding litigation. Neither the payment of the Settlement Amount by CinkoSolar nor any other provision of this Agreement shall be construed as an admission by CinkoSolar of any fault, liability, or wrongdoing.
4. Release
Upon receipt of the Settlement Amount, SolaraTech hereby releases and forever discharges CinkoSolar, its affiliates, successors, and assigns, from any and all actions, causes of action, claims, demands, costs, expenses, and compensation arising out of the Dispute.
5. Entire Agreement
This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous understandings, agreements, representations, and warranties, both written and oral, with respect to such subject matter.
6. Binding Effect
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns.]
"Let's just sign it and we will be on our way," Michael continued, sliding the document across the table toward Wei.
Wei picked up the document, his eyes quickly scanning through the terms.
He looked up at Michael and Bridget, a nod of acknowledgment passing between them. Wei then took the pen offered by Juliet, signing his name on the designated line with a firm hand.
Michael took back the document, adding his signature as well.
It sealed the deal.