Chapter 118
Tanya responded, “Is that so? Her gaze sharpened.
“Could you specify the problems so I can make revisions?”
Ashley knew Tanya thought she was deliberately making things difficult for her.
With a smile, Ashley said, “Miss Mond, that’s your responsibility.
Instead of seeking answers from us, wouldn’t it be more appropriate for you to find the flaws yourself? Remember, we’re not obligated to work with
you.
Your request means you want a partnership without understanding our requirements. It confirms that your proposal doesn’t meet our standards.”
Tanya had indeed thought Ashley was giving her a hard time. She’d assumed Ashley wouldn’t be able to pinpoint the flaws and she said that to set a trap for Ashley. If Ashley listed the problems, she could easily counter. Instead, Ashley turned the tables.
Tanya remained outwardly composed.
“Ms. Jones, you misunderstand. Collaboration is mutually beneficial. If problems exist, we should work together to solve them. That would benefit both parties.”
Ashley was surprised by the question.”Is this your first negotiation, Miss Mond?”
Tanya frowned, unsure of why she asked that. Before Tanya could respond, Ashley continued, her voice soft and gentle, The ‘work together’ you describe happens at home or in school.
In business, it’s about mutual benefit. When better options exist, why settle for second best?”
Though Ashley’s tone was mild, Tanya felt a chill. She realized she’d underestimated Ashley.
Ashley pushed her teacup towards Tanya.”Miss Mond, have some tea.”
Tanya hesitated, but it was impossible for her to refuse. She took the cup.
.”Thank you, Ms. Jones.”
You’re welcome.”
Tim had been observing. He’d been worried Ashley might be bullied again. But the truth was, she easily shut down Tanya.
Tim finished reviewing the documents, and concluded the meeting with Mr. Keller.
After seeing Mr. Keller and Tanya off, Tim gave Ashley a thumbs-up. “Impressive.”
Ashley smiled modestly.”I worked as a secretary at Sterling Corp for several years.” While she hadn’t dealt with major clients, she’d gained experience.
Tim had almost forgotten that. He asked, “Were there really problems with Tanya’s proposal?”
“Yes,” Ashley confirmed. The technical aspects were sound; she suspected Chase had helped her with that. But the execution fell short.
After discussing Tanya’s proposal, Ashley asked, “What about Sterling Corp’s?”
Tim rubbed his nose. As you know, Chase is kind of in our line of work himself. He knows a lot about technology,”
Sterling Corp had deep pockets and employed top-tier tech talent. Combined with Chase’s expertise, their proposal was, to put it mildly, unparalleled. This likely explained why he’d waited so long to contact them.
Ashley wasn’t surprised. “When it’s time to decide, let’s focus on the merits of the proposal itself.” Collaborating with a strong team would minimize risks. Her personal issues with Chase paled in comparison to the project.
That afternoon, Jeffery visited Eternal. Tim didn’t see him, and he left shortly after. Zark arrived soon after. Tim and Ashley met with him.
After reviewing Zark’s revised proposal, Tim and Ashley exchanged a look. Knowing Tim was thinking about the same thing, Ashley said, Mr. Green,
it’s a deal.”
Zark, noting Ashley had a great say at Eternal, subtly glanced between her and Tim before extending his hand.”Perfect.”
They immediately discussed contract details. As dusk settled, and the preliminary agreement was nearing completion, Ashley’s phone rang. It was Sam He called twice and Ashley hung up both times. Sam didn’t call again.
Meanwhile, Chase got a call. Thirty minutes later, he returned home.
Sam, hooked up to an IV, lay in bed, looking pale and weak.”Daddy…” he whispered.
Lucia Morh is a passionate storyteller who brings emotions to life through her words. When she’s not writing, she finds peace nurturing her garden.

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