No Escape from Love novel Chapter 178

"Today's meeting isn't just about discussing the project details," the man said in an arrogant tone. "There's another matter—we need to adjust the pricing of our raw materials."

The moment he spoke, I immediately recognized his voice. He was the same man I had overheard in the stairwell speaking privately with Scarlett.

I turned to glance at Scarlett, but her expression remained calm as if this was no surprise to her at all.

Had she really conspired with him?

I frowned and looked directly at the man. "How is that possible? Is this project even under Lucas' jurisdiction? The pricing was already agreed upon in the contract."

"This is the person in charge's decision," the man said ambiguously.

I was momentarily stunned. Lucas' decision? Did he want to raise prices?

"Even if it's the person in charge's decision, that won't work," Scarlett said as she stood up with a frown. "The materials we're purchasing are already the best offer Hastings Group can give. And now, you're demanding we pay double the original price?"

"There's no room for negotiation," the man replied, leaning both hands on the table with an air of superiority. "Your first batch of products sold well. Now that you're producing the second and third batches, this is the price. Take it or leave it."

Scarlett and I exchanged uneasy glances.

"We need to speak with Mr. Schneider," I said, standing up. "A price adjustment like this isn't something we can take your word for."

"How is this just my word?" The man chuckled. "This decision was made after a company-wide discussion."

A sudden price change—this was the first time we had encountered such a move. I decided to buy some time. "A major decision like this isn't something we can authorize. If you want to raise the price, Mr. Schneider will have to negotiate with Mr. Hastings directly."