Divorce Time

Chapter 204

Vesta listened and said, “Oh, I see,” fixing her sharp gaze on Charlene. “In that case, Ms. Ross, why don’t you point out the issues you see with this proposal? That way, we can work on improving it based on your

feedback.”

Charlene immediately recognized this as a challenge, a test to see if she was nitpicking without real cause.

With a slight smile, Charlene replied, “Ms. Hawkins, any issues with the proposal are really your responsibility to identify. If you can’t pinpoint them yourselves and instead ask us, do you think that’s appropriate? You need to understand that we’re not obligated to work with you. If you’re genuinely interested in collaborating with us but don’t even know what we need, then it only confirms that your proposal doesn’t meet our standards.”

Vesta had indeed planned to corner Charlene, suspecting that she was being intentionally difficult. Her strategy was to see if Charlene could clearly articulate any problems with the proposal, thereby setting a trap to counter any criticism she might offer.

To her surprise, Charlene deftly avoided the trap and turned the tables, creating an even bigger dilemma for

Vesta.

calm exterior. “Ms. Ross, I think you misunderstood. What I meant is that collaboration should be mutually beneficial. If there are issues, shouldn’t we discuss them and improve together for the benefit of both

mid–sip, caught off guard by her stupid question. She asked, “Is this your first time negotiating a

Charlene would ask

about is something you do at home or in school. In business, we team up for profit and split when it’s not working. If there’s a better deal out there, why wouldn’t we take

Vesta felt a chill run through her. She realized she

Vesta and smiled, “Ms. Hawkins, have some

with Charlene’s gesture, not accepting wasn’t an option. She picked up the cup

welcome, Ms. Hawkins.”

closely, concerned that Charlene might get outplayed by Vesta again.

reviewing the documents, chatted with Mr. Palmer, and

I did spend a few years

clients far above the level of ordinary secretaries, she’d still gathered plenty of

He asked, “So,