Tessa continued, "Of course, I hope our two companies can work together amicably rather than end up in a hostile standoff."

Mike’s expression darkened; he hadn’t expected to run into such a tough one today—he’d clearly kicked an iron wall. He quickly masked the desire in his eyes, realizing that Grace was truly outrageous to have sent her own daughter to handle this. All this over a project? Was it really necessary?

“Does your mother know you came to talk cooperation with me?” Mike asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone. He wasn’t sure whether Grace knew her eldest daughter was here negotiating with him. After what he’d tried with Tessa, he shuddered at the thought of what that madwoman might do if she ever found out.

“This is an essential corporate project. Besides, you’ve worked with our company before, so coming to you again makes perfect sense.” Tessa spoke calmly, neither servile nor arrogant, keeping her words firmly within the bounds of business. From her composure alone, Mike could tell she hadn’t mentioned this to Grace. Otherwise, that crazy woman would’ve called by now. The thought puzzled him. If she was truly Grace’s daughter, why would she be out here doing this kind of work herself?

“You, a proper heiress, think it’s appropriate to come negotiate with me?” Mike couldn’t help his curiosity.

Tessa didn’t mind. “You said it yourself—I’m an heiress. So, wouldn’t it be an honor for you to discuss business with me? And besides, I’m not some songbird kept in a gilded cage. Seeing more of the world is good for me, isn’t it?” Her words were watertight, leaving Mike with nothing to refute. The look in Mike’s eyes softened with a hint of admiration.

“Alright then, bring me the contract. I’ll take a good look at it,” he said, reaching out his hand toward Tessa.

Tessa felt a surge of relief—she hadn’t expected things to go this smoothly. It seemed her assistant had been right; her status alone could make others cautious. And truth be told, it did make things easier. Just mentioning her mother’s name was enough to earn her a measure of respect.

“The contract’s right here. You can go through it carefully, and everything I mentioned—I can make it happen.” She began explaining the details with focus. “I’ve already given you the highest possible profit margin. Our company won’t even make much out of this, so I hope you can understand that. Rest assured, working with me will bring you nothing but benefits. I’ll also make sure to take your interests into account, because I do need the support of your resources.”

Hearing her words, Mike lifted his chin with pride. Usually, people were wary of him. This was the first time someone had praised him so openly, and every word happened to please his ears.

“Alright, leave the contract here. I’ll take it back and go through it carefully.”

Tessa felt a twinge of disappointment. She had expected him to sign it on the spot, not take it back for further consideration.