When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 141

At the meeting the following day, Clyde brought up the idea of entering into a full-fledged collaboration with Aspire World.

"York's suggested manufacturers aren't bad, but we've never worked with them before. Safety first," he said. "Mr. Russell is willing to give up ten percent of the profits. I think a partnership would be more beneficial for both parties."

Aspire World's reputation preceded them, and the offer to relinquish a tenth of their profits essentially meant a ten percent increase in earnings for the Patterson Group.

Seeing everyone nod in agreement, York slammed his pen down in frustration.

"Mr. Patterson, what's this about? I've done my homework here."

"Well, I have the right to choose differently, don't I?" Clyde responded, his curiosity piqued rather than showing any sign of annoyance.

"Or have you already made a deal on the side, just waiting for the Patterson Group to send the money?"

"York, you're only here temporarily. You don't actually think you run the Patterson Group, do you?"

York was left speechless, glaring at Vinson with resentment. If it weren't for Vinson stepping in with a matching offer, his plan might have succeeded.

Suddenly, Lisa spoke up, "Doesn't seem right to me. If we're collaborating with three companies, and Mr. Russell has all these projects, what about the Crawford family?"

Her naivety was evident, daring to speak up at such a moment.

I just took a sip of my coffee, catching Clyde's glance before he turned his attention back to her with a smile.

"Ms. Crawford, regardless of who I partner with, it won't affect our dealings with the Crawford family. Our relationship is... unique."

Their overt flirtation made everyone look at me, but I just shrugged it off as if it were the norm.

Honestly, I was used to it. Clyde had been seen with numerous women before in my presence.

The room seemed to sympathize with my situation, some shaking their heads slightly.

Lisa shot him a shy, flirtatious look before turning to me.

"Melanie, this wasn't your idea, was it? You're not just trying to help an old friend by pushing Clyde towards Aspire World, are you?"