Chapter 553
“Though we’re in a business negotiation, Ms. Scott, you should assess the true value of your assets. Mason Isn’t worth the price you’re demanding,” Conner stated coldly.
He continued, “You know how the Jeffersons operate. We’ve built our dominance through skill and strategy. If we can’t reach an agreement today, I
assure you, Mason won’t rise to stardom.
“I’ll use every resource at my disposal to bring him down. Mirage Group will not only lose profits but also face a host of other problems.”
Maeve remained silent, which made him think his threat was working. He softened his tone slightly and added, “I hope you’ll consider this carefully before giving me an answer.”
Just as he was about to sip his wine, Maeve calmly interjected, “You wouldn’t dare.”
Conner paused, his gaze narrowing on Maeve. “What did you say?”
With a smirk, she repeated, “I said, you wouldn’t dare”
Conner’s expression grew dark and threatening, but she continued, unperturbed, “If you intended to go against Mirage Group, you would have acted by now. You’re here to negotiate because you know that what you’d be up against isn’t just Mirage Group.”
“Oh?”
“I’m a beneficiary of Mirage Group and the legal Mrs. Brooks. Opposing me means opposing the Brooks family.”
Maeve explained further, “And that’s not all. Mirage Group’s major strategic partner is the Hackett Group. Given my personal connection with Zion, you’d also have to contend with the Spencer family.
“Incidentally, they are closely allied with the Fosters and are related to the Jansens. This chain of connections means you’d be offending all the powerful families in Seathburn City, Mr. Jefferson.”
Conner’s grip on his wine glass tightened, his knuckles turning white.
Maeve noticed his reaction and chuckled softly. “You must understand, Mr. Jefferson, that even the strongest outsiders cannot afford to underestimate the local power. This isn’t Lentimas City, and your tactics don’t intimidate me.
“You shouldn’t waste resources trying to destroy someone who poses no real threat to you. It would only harm both sides and bring you no benefit.”
“Enough!” Conner snapped, cutting her off.
He knew the consequences of opposing Mirage Group but the thought of Mason becoming a superstar under any circumstances was intolerable to him.
“Ms. Scott, just tell me whether you agree or not,” Conner demanded.
Maeve raised an eyebrow and responded, “Of course not.”
Conner’s composure visibly cracked at her response.
She smiled and continued, “But as a guest in Seathburn City, tonight’s dinner is on me. I hope you’ll accept my hospitality, Mr. Jefferson.”
Maeve downed her glass of red wine and added, “If you’re not satisfied with tonight’s negotiation, you’re welcome to try elsewhere. But I believe the outcome will be the same. The only winner here will be the Royal Hotel’s owner.”
Her words were laced with sarcasm, leaving Conner’s face dark with barely contained anger. He had never suffered such a setback from a woman.
She stood and addressed Zayla, who was waiting by the door. “There’s nothing more to discuss tonight. Get the waiter and have the food packed. I think Mr. Jefferson will like the restaurant’s cuisine.”
“Yes, Ms. Scott,” Zayla replied.
Maeve glanced back at Conner, noting his barely contained fury, and gave a playful smile before leaving.
Moments after she exited, the sound of dishes smashing echoed from within.
Hearing the commotion, Zayla couldn’t help but ask, “Conner is a lunatic. Why did you provoke him on purpose?”
