When There Is Nothing Left But Love

“That’s too kind of you, Mr. Watson. I’m just a common staff member here. What would you like to know?”

He sat back on the chair and smiled at me, indicating for me to do the same.

Then, I sat down in front of him and made sure to keep my manners in check.

“How much will you profit from this project?” He asked without beating around the bush.

I smiled and placed my drink down. “Are you perhaps concerned about my wellbeing, Mr. Watson?”

He chuckled casually and replied, “You’re quite the jokester, Ms. Stovall.”

I maintained my smile, staying silent.

After a while, he stopped chuckling and said, “If things go well, what do you think about becoming business partners for life?”

the earnings first, Mr. Watson? That would make our discussion go

pressed his lips together tightly. His smile was starting to become so

a small sum to you. This two hundred thousand is just to treat you to tea, but if you’re willing to sweet talk Mr. Fuller into working together with me, I’ll top up another five hundred thousand. Of course, you’re welcome to name your

upon the card on the table. With narrowed eyes, I leaned my elbow on the tabletop and cupped my chin in one hand. “So, Mr. Watson, you want me to give up on this bid and also put in a good word for you with Mr. Fuller?” Was I hearing

I enjoy working with smart people such as yourself. Mr.

smile as he continued pushing the card toward

at the card and said lightly, “Two hundred thousand. That’s

how things work around here, though. You probably don’t understand how the Murphy Corporation settles profits. I’d say they’re especially generous as the project manager will always receive twenty percent of all earnings made. Ashton invested about ten million into this project,

he narrowed his eyes. “Asking for two million right off the

the Murphy Corporation, but I will also get to earn more money. If I do take your two hundred thousand, I would be giving myself the short end of the stick. If word gets out that I

my face. “Next time you try and bribe someone, please do your research. This is rather embarrassing

walked into the bidding

I walked

and looked at me. “Shouldn’t I be asking you