Chapter 123: A Kind Gesture

The Camerons, despite lacking the wealth and resources of the Adams family, commanded respect. More crucially, however, their reputation was questionable. Recent events blurred the line between their right and wrong actions, with rumors circulating about their willingness to achieve their goals at any cost, even human lives. Partnering with them presented a significant challenge, primarily due to the potential for unequal benefit sharing. However, aligned interests often dissolved many complications.

After a moment's contemplation, Shawn turned to Maggie, his smile gone, his expression grave. "Are you truly representing the Camerons? What do they offer?"

"Indeed," Maggie replied coolly, a pre-planned response ready. "I can match the Adams' price for the goods. And since this is our first collaboration, I'll add 2% to whatever the Adams are offering you." Shawn frowned, clearly displeased.

The Adams typically ordered large quantities, distributing goods from their Aquapolis headquarters. This allowed Shawn to offer them lower prices, fostering long-term cooperation. The Camerons, however, presented a different scenario.

"What is the Camerons' purchasing capacity?"

"Mr. Lewis, we'll take whatever you can supply," Maggie replied seriously, maintaining eye contact.

Shawn was momentarily taken aback. Soon, however, he erupted in laughter. "Ms. Adam, you're quite bold!"

Maggie raised her glass, smiling. "To a fruitful partnership."

Shawn clinked glasses with her, then added, "However, Ms. Adam, handling this volume entails risks. Regulations require a 30% deposit upfront from the Camerons." Maggie remained silent, assessing the situation.

A 30% deposit—tens of trillions—was a bold request. Such an uncertain investment posed significant risks for any entrepreneur, and the Camerons had little choice but to gamble. Unbeknownst to them, Maggie knew this investment was a lost cause. The larger their investment, the greater their losses.

It wouldn't be long before Shawn would be caught, resulting in the loss of both goods and deposit.

"What about the timeline? How soon can you deliver the goods?" Maggie asked.

"The first batch will be ready in two weeks," Shawn replied after a quick calculation. "The total will be divided into four or five shipments from different ports."

Maggie nodded briefly. "That's too slow. I'm afraid it falls short of my father's expectations."

Shawn frowned, displeased by the "too slow" assessment. Smuggling goods overseas was time-consuming, complex, and required careful arrangements.

"Ms. Adam, you should discuss this with your family," Shawn said, assuming she intended to negotiate a lower price.

Maggie nodded, then stepped into the corridor to call Ronald.

"Maggie, how did it go?" Ronald asked eagerly.

"Shawn's interested in collaborating with the Camerons, but he seems to favor the Adams for long-term cooperation," Maggie lied. "Increase our offer. We need those goods from the Adams." Ronald's tone was grave.

"Dad, is Shawn our only option?" Maggie frowned, expressing her lack of confidence.

Ronald sighed. "We have alternatives, but to simultaneously strike at the Adams, Shawn's our best choice." Few others could supply the Adams with such a quantity so quickly.

"Shawn has a huge inventory. Can we handle that much?" Maggie asked, seemingly concerned about the Camerons' interests.

Ronald found Maggie's concern reassuring; it would lessen his suspicion later.

"I'm unsure about this year's market fluctuations," Ronald explained. "But jewelry and gemstones store well. We can sell them off slowly, even if it takes until next year or longer." Maggie remained silent. "Is something wrong, Maggie? What's troubling you?"

After hesitating, Maggie confessed, "It's nothing. I'm worried about our finances. Investing such a large sum feels risky."

Ronald sighed, understanding her apprehension. This was high-risk, and he shared her anxiety. Luster Corporation's failure would severely impact the Camerons.

He understood her concerns, but reminded her, "Even the best fighters lose battles. That applies to us and the Adams." He remained confident their plan, though not foolproof, offered a better chance of success than the Adams.

"In terms of price and timeline" Maggie interjected, subtly influencing his decision.

"Sooner is better. Add 5% to the Adams' price," Ronald insisted, resentful of Phillip's arrogance.

Maggie smirked. Ronald had made the decision; any problems later wouldn't be her fault.

Returning to the booth, Maggie found a jewelry box waiting. Shawn opened it, saying, "It feels like we're old friends. A small gift."

Maggie raised an eyebrow. Shawn was more generous than she expected.

He presented a lavish aquamarine jewelry set: necklace, earrings, ring, and bracelet. The gemstones sparkled brilliantly. She admitted she liked it.

She smiled softly, returning the box. Shawn, though slightly disappointed, maintained a neutral expression.

"Mr. Lewis, I appreciate the gesture, but I prefer a batch of diamonds instead of this aquamarine set," Maggie said gently.

Shawn hesitated, but agreed after she wrote down diamond specifications and handed them to him. He chuckled. "No problem."

The diamonds cost far less than the aquamarine set. Ms. Adam was certainly an intriguing character. Why diamonds?