That was not important, however. What was important was when Connor brought Toby's mother up, Sonia could see that the love in his eyes was genuine. So he still loves her? But so what? He cheated on her even though he said he loves her. She's gone now. Pretending like she's your greatest love means nothing. The only one who thinks it means something is you. People like me and everyone else think you're as disgusting as a piece of rat poop in the bathroom's corner.
She was starting to get lost in her thoughts, but Connor started talking. He spun his thumb ring and gave Sonia an apologetic smile. "Sorry. I'm at that age now. I love to reminisce. You guys must think I'm a drag."
Sonia forced a smile. "Not at all, Mr. Salzburg, but it is time we talk business." In other words, she was telling him to cut the crap and stop talking about his past. She had no interest in it, and she was disgusted by it.
Connor got what she said, of course. His smile did not waver, though it had become mirthless. He extended his hand to Xander, and Xander whipped out an arm-length walking cane from nowhere. He handed it to Connor with two hands. Connor took it and tapped it on the ground, putting both his hands on the top of the walking cane, which was adorned with a dragon's head.
Now that he had his walking cane, Sonia could feel the air change. He was finally looking like the head of a family, and there was an air of a leader about him. He was no longer a simple scholar. So this is what he looks like when he negotiates, Sonia thought. She pursed her lips and got on guard.
Connor was starting to take his real form, and she knew he was getting serious. I can't let my guard down, or he'd be dominating the talks. She was no match for Connor. He was about twenty years older than she was, and he had led his family for more than a decade. The man was a sly old fox, while she was just a newbie. One false move could cost her dearly.
At the same time, she was looking forward to this encounter. She could learn from it and grow. Chances like this did not come by every day. She breathed deeply to calm herself down. Don't panic. It'd be bad if he sees an opening. She clenched her fists and lowered her eyes. She tried to stay as calm as she could. I can't let him know that I'm nervous.
Connor was oblivious to her thoughts.
He was still holding his walking cane and looking as calm as ever, though he was slightly surprised inside. He was surprised that Sonia could stay so calm even under pressure. He assumed his usual stance earlier in an attempt to scare her so he could have the upper hand in the negotiations. Much to his surprise, this tactic failed where it should have succeeded.
Even if she was feigning it, meeting his gaze calmly was already impressive enough. She was praiseworthy, at least among the younger generation. A pity she's on Toby's side. He squinted for a moment and resumed his gentle smile. "I know what happened between you and my foolish daughter, Miss Reed. She's the one at fault here, and I apologize for her behavior."
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