Suits: A Lawyer Surviving TV Chaos

After seeing Caroline off, Martin began handling the Fisk Hotel merger case. 

This acquisition involved at least $50 million, possibly even exceeding $100 million. Combined with the cross-continental collaboration between North America and Europe—where business environments and legal systems differed vastly—it was impossible for Martin to handle everything alone. 

Under Jessica's direction, Louis Litt, the junior partner in charge of administrative and HR matters at the firm, quickly assembled a legal and negotiation team dedicated to the merger. Martin served as the team's chief leader, responsible for finalizing all matters and communicating with the client, Mr. Carl Fisk. Rachel also joined the team, overseeing all negotiation arrangements. Three junior lawyers were assigned roles: one for merger strategy, one for addressing legal discrepancies between North America and Europe, and Priya Koothrappali—recently promoted—who was temporarily unassigned until her return from California. Each junior lawyer was supported by an assistant attorney and an administrative secretary to handle document preparation. Colleagues from the finance, operations, and real estate departments also joined, bringing the total team to 19 members—a robust lineup. 

Martin stood in the corridor outside the glass-walled conference room, hands in pockets, gazing at the packed meeting space. For a moment, he felt dazed. 

*Twenty-five years ago, I was an errand boy at a middling law firm. Now, I'm leading Ivy League elites. If my parents from my past life could see this, they'd be proud.* 

After an indeterminate time, a chubby figure quietly approached. Louis Litt—balding, round-faced, with large eyes, a high nose, and prominent buck teeth—glanced into the room before turning to Martin, who seemed lost in thought. 

"Worried about what to say once you go in?" 

Martin snapped back to reality. "Just announcing roles and timelines. Nothing complicated," he replied, smiling. "I was reflecting on how time flies. The last time I led a team like this was during Harvard's Ivy League debate tournament." 

The Ivy League alliance included Harvard, Penn, Yale, Princeton, Columbia, Dartmouth, Brown, and Cornell. These schools fostered healthy competition, with the annual debate tournament being a marquee event. Dominated by law and philosophy students—often well-born, charismatic, and considered ideal romantic partners (second only to football quarterbacks)—the tournament drew political and business heavyweights. Half of U.S. presidents, 300+ Congressional members, and 70% of state governors had legal backgrounds. Even European and Asian legislatures, and warlords in developing nations, sent their children to elite law schools. *Lawyers rule the world* wasn't hyperbole. During the tournament's final rounds, Supreme Court justices judged, and party whips awarded trophies. 

Louis, a Harvard alum who'd failed to make the debate team due to his appearance, eyed Martin with envy. "Must be a cherished memory. How did Harvard fare that year?" 

Martin shot him a puzzled look. "Is there any outcome besides first place?" 

Louis choked silently. 

Martin chuckled and patted his back. "Thanks for assembling the team so quickly, Louis." 

Louis recovered, shaking his head. "No need. I owe you for the Steve Huffman matter. We signed Reddit's three-year advisory contract last week—$5.77 million. By firm policy, 30% of that fee is yours." 

"Congratulations! I've always liked the number seven," Martin replied. "Steve's a solid partner. Let's collaborate more closely in the future." 

"Absolutely!" 

After more small talk, Louis left. Martin steadied himself, then entered the conference room. The chatter died instantly, as if a teacher had caught students off-guard. Though younger than most present, his authority was unmatched. 

"You've read the agenda. Our firm will provide full legal and negotiation support for Fisk Hotel's overseas merger. You have 30 minutes to ask questions or opt out." 

A junior lawyer in his thirties raised a hand. "Martin, what's the estimated deal size?" 

"Between tens of millions to over a billion. But based on my calculations, it won't drop below $47 million—the minimum required for the merger's purpose." 

A female junior lawyer followed up: "What's the target's stance?" 

Martin pulled up Rachel's PowerPoint, highlighting Molly Hotel's profile. "The French Molly family, century-old hoteliers with stagnant operations but strong European connections, need Fisk's capital and management expertise. Fisk, saturated in North America, aims to expand into Europe. Their synergy is undeniable." 

Thirty minutes later, no one withdrew. 

Martin nodded, satisfied. "Progress meetings every Thursday. Adjourned." He rapped the gavel—a childish indulgence he'd waited years to fulfill. 

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