I will also add if there was no buyout in mind. Wouldn’t LP and company have tried to rescue our current price in some way?? Seems to me there must be a number LP has gotten, she knows she has it and there is no need to say a single word.
The patent process takes years, so this isn't a recent development. Linda and company have been protecting their IP for years. Yes, it is critical to have it locked up so competitors can't steal it. And yes, it is important for a potential buyout as well.