When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 22

I already knew the supplier from working with the Patterson Group a few times before, but we weren’t that close.

When I arrived at their office, the air was thick with tension.

“Ms. Crawford, what a surprise. You’ve got some free time on your hands now? Our little operation might be too small to handle a big fish like Patterson Group. Don’t you think so?”

Jake Stone barely glanced up, lazily stirring his coffee as he spoke.

I was well aware that the mess was on Patterson Group's end, so I didn't put up much of a fight. If there was one thing I'd learned over the years, it was how to play the underdog in negotiations. Sometimes, playing up the gender card did work in the business world.

Especially since Jake was still around after hours, clearly waiting for someone from Patterson Group to show up. After all, no one else could supply on such short notice.

Jake's demeanor softened after a bit of smooth-talking, though he was far from satisfied. “We gave Patterson Group our best deal, rushed the job without extra charges, and now, you're holding back payment? That's hardly fair.”

“You're right. This oversight was on us. But if you agree, we can process the payment immediately.” I slid the paperwork across the table to him. “Mr. Stone, several big projects are coming up for Patterson Group that require even more supplies. I know your company has plenty of partners, but wouldn't a stable collaboration benefit both of us?”

Jake considered it for a moment, his interest piqued.

Though just a branch manager, Clyde might be the future CEO. Securing a partnership with Patterson Group could guarantee steady profits for years.

Seeing his interest, I showed him several successful case studies and profit analyses.

Finally, Jake was convinced. “Ms. Crawford, you sure have a way with words. I had you pegged all wrong...”

He trailed off, but I got the gist. Everyone thought I was too timid to say anything, even if it meant being known as the wife with a cheating husband.

I laughed off the awkwardness. “Necessity is the mother of invention, right? Mr. Patterson sent me, so here I am. Luckily, you were willing to listen, or I wouldn’t have gotten a word in edgewise.”

Playing the role of the wronged wife had its perks. It earned me sympathy in our circles, and Jake no longer saw me as a threat. However, he insisted that the Patterson Group partner with him on their next project as a condition for supplying goods at the original price.

With that hurdle cleared, I was in high spirits. Once the delivery was on the way, I'd have a cool half-million in the bank, easing my financial worries.