My terminology is going to be off because its been a while, but if they are serious have them sign a term sheet, that has a exit clause; if for some reason the

My terminology is going to be off because its been a while, but if they are serious have them sign a term sheet, that has a exit clause; if for some reason the deal falls through they reimburse you for the time spent. If they are serious about the deal they will sign it, a 500K exit clause, as an example, is small change to a 6b company but can mean alot to a small startup. I know this does not help with your current situation, but might be useful for people reading who will find themselves in an acquisition.