Chapter 826 Hard to Say No
The meeting lasted about an hour and a half, mostly attended by top leaders and key industry heads, along with some financial execs.
After it wrapped up, Brandon chatted with a few folks in the lobby.
"Mr. Smith, want to join us for dinner?" someone asked.
Brandon saw Mia coming from a distance and told the others, "You go ahead."
Mia, carrying her bag, approached Brandon. He looked her over.
"Why do you look so tired? Didn't sleep well?"
He'd noticed Mia seemed distracted during the meeting.
Mia smiled faintly, "Maybe I went to bed late. What you said today was really insightful."
At least he didn't just spout empty words like many leaders who can't speak without a script.
Brandon usually spoke little, but when he did, it was useful. He could speak off the cuff in any situation.
"They've arranged a dinner," Brandon said. "Want to join me?"
Mia smiled a little. "Thanks, but I'm good."
Brandon shrugged. "Alright, then I'll skip it too."
Mia was surprised, "Why?"
Brandon explained, "They just want to flatter me. I'm tired of it. I want a quiet lunch. Any good restaurant suggestions?"
Seeing Brandon's serious expression, Mia thought for a moment. "What kind of restaurant are you in the mood for?"
"Let's have Mexican food," Brandon said. "I like the taste."
"There's a great Mexican place with unique dishes," Mia said, handing him a business card. "You won't find these dishes anywhere else."
Brandon glanced at the card, "It's close by. Let's go together."
Mia hesitated, "You want to have lunch with me?"
Brandon nodded, "Yes, are you free?"
His sudden invite left Mia unsure. Normally, she'd decline, but it was Brandon.
"I wanted to discuss some financial issues with you privately," Brandon said casually.
If he'd been commanding, Mia might have refused, but he was polite, making it hard to say no.
Seeing her hesitate, Brandon added, "It's okay if you don't want to. Just lunch, nothing more."
Mia said, "Mr. Smith, I didn't think you had any other intentions. I'm just flattered you want to have lunch with me. Of course, I'd be happy to."
Brandon remained calm. "Then let's go."
Mia agreed, though she didn't show any excitement.
They got in the car and arrived at the restaurant Mia mentioned. Usually, you needed a reservation, sometimes a month in advance.
But Brandon's status got them a table in a quiet private room.
After they sat down, the waiter handed them menus.
Brandon flipped through his. "Ms. Thompson, you've been here before. Any recommendations? I'm overwhelmed by the choices."
Mia replied, "Sure, any preferences?"
"I'm not picky," Brandon said, closing the menu. "I'll eat whatever you order."
Mia ordered a few dishes decisively.
After the waiter left, the room got quiet.
Mia didn't know what to say until Brandon broke the silence, "You seem tense. Do you feel pressured sitting with me?"
