My Dad's Bestfriend novel Chapter 96

Jacob

"So, Mr. Jonathan, any other concerns on your mind? Is there anything else you wish to discuss?” I asked, a faint chuckle escaping my lips as I regarded the bald-headed British man seated across from me. It seemed he harboured grand hopes concerning Chloe—likely hoping to settle down with her.

But did he truly know that she wasn't one to settle? Certainly not.

Or else why would he be here to satisfy her whims?

"As I mentioned, Mr. Adriano, I don't see the profitability in having my funds tied up in your ongoing projects. Our agreement was clear: It stipulated the prompt release of my funds upon request, and I anticipate a seamless resolution from your end."

"Of course, I can arrange the return of your funds. However, if I may ask," I maintained a composed demeanour, holding back my smile, “Is profitability the sole concern here? Because I suspect there's more to your decision than meets the eye. It’s Chloe, isn’t it?”

He appeared taken aback by my directness, a flicker of embarrassment crossing his face. He was past the age to chase after someone like Chloe, yet here he was, grasping onto her with all his might—such was Jonathan—a pervert. The rumors about his history of abandoning ventures due to his pursuit of young women seemed more plausible now. The recent magazine exposé featuring him cavorting with numerous young women aboard a Mediterranean yacht now seemed entirely real.

Someone had said it right: Women could always be destruction if not distraction.

Jonathan here, I forgot to mention, was a spectacle indeed—adorned with wrinkles traversing his face, a gleaming bald head, oversized spectacles perched low, and a portly belly walking ahead of him with each step.

"Mr. Adriano, I—"

"Relax, Jonathan. It's all right. We've all been there," I intervened, taking a sip of my coffee. "Women have a way of pushing us into uncharted territories. I understand, but Chloe? Are you certain you're willing to risk this deal for her? Because I doubt she'll stick around once this chapter closes. I can get back what I’ll lose from this deal but do you think you’d get such an opportunity again? Or possibly another deal with my company?”

"What?" His disbelief was palpable.

Poor man. He really thought Chloe would stick with him till the end…

"Yes, Jonathan. I've known Chloe for quite some time. She might not have mentioned it, but we fucked a long time ago, and to be frank, it wasn't even that good. Considering how remarkable and handsome you are, surely, you could find better women. What's gotten into you?" I questioned. "Look at yourself—you have wealth, charisma, everything a woman could desire. So why squander it on someone like Chloe, who won't stand by you in the long run?"

I noticed a glimmer of pride rekindling within him as a spark flickered in his eyes. "You think so?" Adjusting his tie, a faint smile tugged at the corners of his lips, and I had to suppress my amusement as I observed him.

Fucking idiot.

"Absolutely," I reassured him, “You still got looks of those youthful men that women would swoon over. Your age is a mystery to anyone who doesn't know it. Why waste such an advantageous deal on Chloe when you could have your pick of hundreds?"

I wouldn't waste so much time on this motherfucker, but right now, he was a crucial potential investor for the Nova Cascade Apartments project. If he backed out, it'd put me in a tight spot, something I definitely didn't need, especially with Evelyn here for the first time. I wanted to focus more on her than on these business matters.

"I believe you're right," I noted his adjustment of the tie, a glint of pride evident in his demeanor. "I shouldn't let someone like her sway such a significant deal. God, you saved me, man!”

Well, I buttered up your old-arse for my own sake.

"Anytime, Jonathan. Individuals like you are an inspiration to us. Who wouldn't want to age as gracefully as you do?"

"I'll give you some pointers on how I've managed it, no problem," he chuckled as he rose from his seat. "So, the deal's back on. No hard feelings?"

"Never from my end," I responded, standing up and offering a handshake. "Glad to have you back. Let's aim for the profit margins to soar this time."

"I have no doubt you'll make that happen," he replied with a crooked smile, shaking my hand. "So, the deal's sealed?"

"Absolutely. Though, I'd appreciate it if you could expedite the funds. Construction is resuming soon, and we've already secured a few bookings, along with models of our buildings. I could send them over for your review if you'd like."

"No need, I trust you on this," he assured. "Keep up the good work. I'll transfer the funds this evening; no need to delay the progress."

With that, he exited the office, leaving me to lean back in my chair, idly spinning the paperweight while a faint chuckle escaped me, “God….these old-idiots.”

It had been surprisingly easier than anticipated. I pondered what Chloe's reaction would be once she discovered her intentions had failed.

Well, this game was proving far more entertaining than I'd imagined. So fucking interesting.

Evelyn would be overjoyed to hear the news, and most importantly, relieved. I had sensed her concern, and even though I could have postponed dealing with Jonathan, I chose to wrap it up today to erase any worry lines from her beautiful face.