Chapter 124: What She Really Wants

"Ms. Adam, your specific needs and standards may require some time to fulfill. I'll ensure delivery within three days," Shawn assured promptly.

Maggie smiled. "Thank you, Mr. Lewis."

She had been seeking specific diamonds for some time, finding suitable stones challenging. She needed them for a brooch she was designing for Nathael's upcoming birthday. The design was complete, but sourcing the materials presented a significant hurdle. As a jewelry designer, she held high standards for diamond and gemstone quality. It wasn't that high-quality stones were rare, but even minor imperfections were unacceptable. Her diamond requirements were precise: color, clarity, cut, origin, and more. This made her task difficult.

But what was challenging for her was effortless for Shawn. His years in the gemstone and jewelry trade provided him with ready access to desirable materials, making it simple to acquire the diamonds Maggie needed. "Ms. Adam, I can't adjust the price, but I guarantee the timeline. No one is faster," Shawn pitched confidently.

Maggie met his gaze. "We can negotiate the price, Mr. Lewis, but we're competing with the Adams, so speed is essential."

Shawn frowned, intrigued. "What's your proposed timeline?"

If she raises the price, I can expedite delivery… he thought.

"Ten days. The first batch must arrive within ten days," Maggie stated firmly.

Shawn pondered. Ten days was only four days earlier than his initial two-week estimate, but considering the sea and land transport logistics, it was a significant challenge. It represented a one-third reduction in the delivery time.

"Mr. Lewis, I'm confident you can manage this. If you deliver the first batch in ten days, I'll offer 4% more than the Adams," Maggie proposed.

Shawn quickly calculated the profit margin and feasibility. After a few minutes, he pushed the aquamarine set toward her. "Ms. Adam, I'll deliver the diamonds. But could you indicate the Camerons' maximum offer?"

Shawn’s demeanor was bold, reflecting his daring and boundary-pushing nature. And when it came to risky ventures, he weighed the benefits against the risks. Clearly, the Camerons' offer wasn't sufficient, or perhaps he sensed it could be higher.

Maggie smiled. "Mr. Lewis, you're intriguing. But in business, one doesn't reveal their hand."

Shawn chuckled. "But will you, Ms. Adam?" He gambled that her surname, Adam, not Cameron, might sway her. Though raised by the Camerons, she wasn't family, and compromising herself for their benefit made no sense. Revealing the Camerons' offer wouldn't harm her. She didn't take the aquamarine set. "Mr. Lewis, I'll be frank. 4% is my maximum."

Ronald's ceiling was 5%, but offering that would be expected. A lower offer would be more surprising, making her more valuable to the Camerons.

After considering, Shawn said, "Twelve days. That's my best offer."

Maggie nodded. "Deal."

She informed Ronald, who was delighted, and immediately sent someone to sign the contract with Shawn and pay the deposit.

During the transaction, Shawn raised his glass. "Ms. Adam, may I ask why you need these diamonds?"

Maggie replied softly, "A friend designed something for me, but she has high standards, so I had to trouble you, Mr. Lewis."

Sensing her reluctance, Shawn refrained from further questioning. He grinned. "Interested in meeting some foreigners? They're more outgoing than those back home." Maggie politely declined, but she noted Shawn’s preferences based on those around him. He then introduced her to two associates, and Maggie interacted patiently.

Meanwhile, Nathael, after reassuring the Winston family head, prepared to leave. He paused, seeing Maggie amidst the vibrant lights. She sat with crossed legs, radiating allure and a sharpness he hadn't seen before. Her smile held a hint of dominance. Nathael slowed his approach, observing her.

"Isn't that your 'Little Moon'? Shouldn't you warn her about Shawn?" a deep voice asked. Nathael lit a cigarette. "That's not necessary," he said from the staircase railing. The man beside him smiled, silent.

"Everyone in Aquapolis knows your remarkable abilities, Mr. Lewis. You get anyone anything they want!" Maggie joked. Shawn chuckled heartily.

"You flatter me, Ms. Adam. I'll get you anything, even if it costs my life!"

Flattery was a common skill. Maggie simply smiled.

Shawn can't get me what I truly want. I want the Camerons' downfall and a secure future for Nathael. He can't provide that.

One of Shawn's associates approached. "The funds have been received."

Shawn clinked glasses with Maggie. "To a successful partnership, Ms. Adam."

Maggie smiled. The Camerons' 30 million upfront payment gave both them and Shawn hope for substantial profits. But Maggie knew this money would vanish. The authorities had been watching Shawn. This major transaction would surely trigger action.

Her phone rang. She glanced at the screen. "Alex?" she murmured. Why is Alex calling? Or is it…Nathael?