Chapter 15

Miranda knew that many high-end property developments required financial verification before showing properties. "So, what exactly are the requirements for VIP clients?" she asked.

"First, you need to be eligible to buy property in Lumberville—that's non-negotiable. Then, your liquid assets must be at least $20 million, or you must hold a black card from one of the top five banks in the country."

"Alternatively, you can provide other proof of substantial financial assets, like real estate certificates."

Miranda possessed all of that—cash, deposits, even a black card. As she considered which option to use, Lionel grabbed her arm and pulled her away.

"This is getting ridiculous," he muttered. "Twenty million dollars in liquid assets? We're not in some TV drama…"

Mindy, standing nearby, whispered, "I wouldn't even dare put this in a novel. Miranda, you've gotten pretty bold after a few years away." She turned to Wendy with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that. She's just messing around. We didn't mean to waste your time."

Wendy, unable to hide her irritation, rolled her eyes dramatically. "Where did you guys crawl out from? You can't afford a villa but still act like big shots? What a joke."

Mindy was taken aback, and Lionel's expression darkened. Knowing they were in the wrong, they continued to apologize.

Wendy became even more aggressive. "You think you can buy a villa? You probably can't even afford a bathroom in one of the high-rises! The nerve! Merry Christmas, huh? What a way to ruin it!" Working during the Christmas celebrations was frustrating enough, and she had hoped for a big client. Instead, she got three people she deemed broke and undeserving.

Mindy frowned. "Sure, we were out of line, but don't you think you're being a bit too harsh? After all, we are your clients…"

"If you have a problem with my attitude, then don't bother coming back. Clients? Do you even deserve to be called that? Do you have the money to back it up? If you can't afford it, what are you even doing here? My time is precious, and I'm not here for you to waste it!"

"And how do you know we can't afford it?" Miranda shot back. "You'd better watch your mouth."

"Oh, so just because you say you can afford it, I'm supposed to believe you? I could say I'm a billionaire too—it doesn't cost a penny to talk big."

Miranda scoffed. "Even if I could afford it, I wouldn't buy it from someone like you."

1.2

"Well, come back when you actually can afford it," Wendy sneered. She was convinced Miranda was just another person pretending to be rich. She'd seen plenty like her before.

"Alright then," Miranda said. She scanned the area, her eyes settling on something. She walked past Wendy and approached another staff member. "Excuse me, do you work here?"

Sophia Emerson, a young woman who looked new to the job, was holding a tray. She seemed startled but nodded. "Yes, I do. How can I help you?"

"Could you show us the layouts for Lakeview Villa?"

Sophia hesitated. "It's our company policy to verify finances before showing the villas…"

"I understand," Miranda nodded, pulling a black card from her jacket pocket and handing it to Sophia. "Will this do?"

Sophia's eyes widened. "Of course! Please, follow me…"

Wendy, who had been ignored, interrupted. She strode over and pointed at the black card. "How do you know it's not a fake?"