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 company has plenty of

a moment,

CEO. Securing a partnership with Patterson Group could

Jake was convinced. “Ms. Crawford, you sure have a way with

Everyone thought I was too timid to say anything, even if it meant being

sent me, so here I am. Luckily, you were willing to listen, or I wouldn't

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

was on the way, I'd have a cool

a good night's sleep, but Clyde's

up on him several times, I finally picked up, thinking of the potential financial fallout if something happened to

"Come

As I was about to hang up, Dailey's voice came through, sounding desperate. "Come on, Melanie. Clyde's lost it, calling everyone babe. He might lose it with me if you don't show

Dailey sounded genuinely

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few good friends, he'd always been decent tome. Reluctantly, I got dressed and headed out. I couldn't let Clyde make a scene. As his wife, at least on paper,

the bar, Clyde

all liars, saying you wouldn't come.

with kisses, making my skin crawl, but I couldn't push