DENNIS
“The return on investment is massive, Dennis,“ Cole said, his eyes bright as he took a cup of his wine. After he took a sip, he pointed his flute in my direction. “You have to just give it a try.“
“I will think about it,“ I said to him for the umpteenth time. I really wished he would stop yapping about this ‘deal.’ If I knew the business idea he so eagerly wanted to talk about was related to this, I would not have cleared up my schedule to meet with him.
I would be happier if I was spending this time with Amie or Ana. Not sipping this tasteless wine and listening to some business deal that could lead me to lose more than I could afford to.
“No, Dennis. There is no time to think,“ he enunciated each word as he slapped the back of his right hand on his left palm.
“So let me get this straight. This government project is a redevelopment that focuses on revitalizing specific areas that has been underperforming economically, yeah?“
He bobbed his head, taking another swift sip. “The initiative will enhance infrastructures, such as roads, public transport, hospitals and all. They'll practically make the area more accessible and technology savvy. There are also plans to create new parks and recreational spaces to improve the quality of life for residents.“
I nodded, “I see.“
He continued on his own accord. “Yes, the project is expected to attract new businesses. This will then lead to job creation and stimulate local economic growth. You get what I'm saying?“ His fingers lightly tapped on my knee. “With the government backing, we, investors, are more confident in the project's success. You know, since it will come with funding and resources that can mitigate risks.“
He reclined back in his seat, “Look man, this project presents a significant opportunity for high returns on investment. Come on, think of when the area becomes more desirable for both residents and businesses. The return will be insane.“
“I don't know, Cole. What did you say about the figures again?“
“The projections show returns of over 20% in just a couple of years. I'm a living testament! Plus, I’ve spoken to a few investors who are already on board and they’re excited about the prospects. They calculated the odds and believe it's worth the risk. Once the practical redevelopment stage is over, the rest of the issue will solve itself as the area will automatically attract business owners. New businesses and old. Come on, let's join resources and do this, man.“ He chuckled, “Who knows, you might even set up a bar in one of the areas.“
I sighed. “This sounds too good.“
He grinned. “I know. I can literally see myself in you right now. Initially, I was also skeptical about it. I didn't even want to consider it. I mean, it's understandable. We’ve all seen deals that promised a lot but didn’t deliver. I've even invested in such that yielded nothing but this one is a game changer. After my last investment, where I made a significant profit, I believe it's worth a second look.“
I pinched the space between my brows as I processed his words. In all honesty, it sounded good. But this was Cole. It's been years since I last saw him. Back in college, he was one of the lot that was infuriated by my desire to change my ways.
Seeing as he was deeply in a relationship with a responsible-looking nurse, there was a probability that he might have changed but I just couldn't bring myself to trust him.
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