Chapter 15

“Ms. Thompson,” Sophia said, sounding flustered. “What’s with that look? Do you even know the verification process? What if something goes wrong, and we let just anyone in? Can you handle that kind of responsibility?”

“I think I know the site; they covered it during training. If the verification goes smoothly and this lady’s black card is legitimate, it won’t be my fault.”

“Hmph, you’re catching on pretty quickly for someone who’s only been here a few days. But let me give you a piece of advice—in our line of work, you need to be sharp. You should know who our clients are, who can afford what, and who can’t. Otherwise, you’re just wasting everyone’s time.”

Sophia pursed her lips. “Thank you, Ms. Thompson, but I’m new. I’m still learning and haven’t closed any deals yet, so I’m okay with taking the time to observe and practice.”

She turned to Miranda. “Ms. Sutton, according to protocol, we’ll need to verify your card now. If everything checks out, you’ll be able to view the property.”

She glanced at Lionel and Mindy. “Mr. and Mrs. Sutton, please have a seat and enjoy some coffee. This won’t take long.”

Lionel frantically waved his hands. “No, no, no need! You’re being too kind.”

Panic set in. Was Miranda really going through with this? Once the black card was verified, the truth would come out. It would have been better to cut their losses and take a few insults than risk complete embarrassment.

Mindy seemed more composed, at least on the surface. She settled into a chair and took a slow sip of her coffee, though her hand trembled slightly.

“Ms. Sutton, this way, please,” Sophia said.

“Alright,” Miranda replied, following her into an office.

“Ugh, keep pretending,” Wendy muttered. “Let’s see how long you can keep up this act! Some people just can’t face reality until it’s too late.”

Ten minutes later, the two returned.

“Well? The card was fake, right?” Wendy, still lurking by the door, was clearly determined to confront Miranda.

But both Sophia and Miranda ignored her.

“Ms. Sutton, are you absolutely sure about this?” Sophia asked, her voice tinged with anxiety.

“Yes.”

“Maybe I should still take you to the site? That way, you can get a better understanding of the location and surroundings before you—”

“No need. I’ve already seen the scale model in the office.”

“But—” The scale model could hardly compare to the real thing! This was a multi-million-dollar property!

“Oh, look at her, still putting on a show,” Wendy sneered. “Sophia, now you understand what they mean when they say people can be ruthless, right? You’re fresh out of school; you still have a lot to learn! Consider this a lesson—next time, learn to see people for what they are.”

“Ms. Thompson, I think there’s been a misunderstanding,” Sophia said coldly. Her cheeks flushed with embarrassment on Wendy’s behalf.

“A misunderstanding? A misunderstanding about someone trying to play rich and dragging you into their little charade?” Wendy’s eyes flicked to Miranda.

“No, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Sutton’s card—”

“I know. It’s fake. Don’t be so gullible. Just because someone calls it a black card doesn’t mean it’s real.”

“No, it’s real!”

“Pfft—are you really that naïve?” Wendy rolled her eyes, her smile widening.

Sophia fell silent, wondering how she could convince her.

“Ms. Thompson, are you sure you don’t want to think this over?” Sophia asked Miranda again.

“No need. Let’s sign the contract.”

Even though the price per unit for this development project was higher than Lumberville’s current average, the location was prime. The amenities were plentiful, and the units were fully furnished, ready for immediate move-in. A slight premium was only to be expected. Compared to property prices in Elgerson City, this was a bargain. Plus, Miranda had done her homework. She was already well-versed in the layout, orientation, and both the hardware and software features of Lakeview Villa.

Today’s Bonus Offer (This seems out of place and needs context or removal)