Hannah glanced at the agitated Charles, then at Gordon. He was clearly disappointed in Charles, likely perceiving him as solely motivated by money. First impressions, ingrained and difficult to alter, held significant weight.
Hannah calmly addressed Charles, “I did this for your family's sake and to give Gordon a better excuse.”
“You only did it for yourself!” Charles retorted.
Turning to Gordon, she explained, “Gordon, I set this price for the greater good. While recovering our losses is a factor, it's minor. My priority is avoiding future problems. Sawyer stole our plan—regardless of individual culpability within their organization—embezzling others' ideas causes immense reputational damage. Without a formal apology and substantial compensation, Sawyer Group's reputation will be ruined.”
Gordon found her reasoning sound. Charles, recognizing her strategy, couldn't formulate a rebuttal.
“Secondly,” Hannah continued, “both Mr. Sawyer and I know Gordon aims for significant achievement, as do all the enterprises involved. He's under intense scrutiny. Demanding Sawyer Group withdraw would generate considerable negative publicity, given their investment and the contract's terms. Conversely, forcing a free or discounted transfer would be perceived as unfair, suggesting you're using your power to crush us, a narrative difficult to counter.”
Gordon nodded in agreement, impressed by her insightful analysis. Charles, however, grew increasingly furious. He inwardly cursed her saintly facade.
“Finally,” Hannah smiled, “on the day Sawyer Group won the bid, Lee publicly declared this project was for public benefit, not profit. So, are you still prioritizing profit? Sawyer Group can still net 100–200 million. Paying 100 million for our plan isn't a loss. Is your father's public benefit statement meaningless? Or did he intend for Sawyer to make less, not zero, profit?” Her words dripped with sarcasm.
They all knew "public benefit," in business terms, meant reduced, not eliminated, profit. No profit equated to loss—an unspoken rule among businessmen. Before Gordon, Charles couldn't admit this, lest he be branded a hypocritical rule-breaker, inviting a fierce backlash.
Charles's face contorted with rage.
“Mr. Sawyer, embarrassing yourself is one thing, but embarrassing your company is far worse. You wouldn't want to embarrass your father, would you? His boasts to the media—about employees working tirelessly on a ‘7+2’ schedule—have already backfired. Making them seem foolish for paltry compensation would be your fault. Of course, everyone has different business philosophies. I merely offer suggestions; I respect your decision.”
Her words, though forceful, were irrefutable.
She added, “I stated I'd forgo South Bay New Town's construction. That promise stands, even without payment from Sawyer Group. Mr. Sawyer can reconsider the price; we'll accept any offer.”
Her words trapped him. She was simply too clever. Initially demanding 100 million, she strategically altered her approach once she gauged his inability to refuse, leaving the final decision to him, forcing him to acknowledge her comprehensive strategy before Gordon.
Charles, already outmaneuvered, had to concede. He'd never hated anyone so intensely. Grinding his teeth, he was powerless.
“I have a meeting in half an hour,” Hannah said, checking her phone. “I've said my piece. I appreciate your time. Let us know Mr. Sawyer's decision. We'll accept any price.”
Standing, she conveyed a respectful deference to Gordon, leaving the decision entirely in their hands.
“Fine!” Charles finally conceded. He had no choice. Hesitation or bargaining would humiliate Gordon. This project, crucial for public image and demonstrating their strength, had already boosted their share price after outcompeting Cooper Group. It also fostered positive relations with Gordon.
He dared not offend Gordon; the risk was too high. Hannah had ensured he gained nothing. The theft news had tanked their stock and damaged their credit.