When Love Becomes a Cage by Nora

Chapter 22

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."

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

for a moment, his interest

with Patterson Group could guarantee steady profits for years. Seeing his interest, I showed him several successful case studies and profit

a way with words. I had

Everyone thought I was too timid to

the mother of invention, right? Mr. Patterson sent me, so here I am. Luckily, you were willing to listen, or

as a threat. However, he insisted that the Patterson Group partner with him on their next project

hurdle cleared, I was in high spirits. Once the delivery was on the way, I'd have a cool

ready to celebrate with a good night's sleep, but Clyde's incessant calls woke me

him several times, I finally picked up, thinking

voice rang out, "Come

sounding desperate. "Come on, Melanie. Clyde's

Dailey sounded genuinely

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and headed out. I couldn't let Clyde make a scene. As his wife,

Clyde

all liars, saying you wouldn't

my skin crawl, but I couldn't push