Chapter 561 The Stirrings of James' Jealousy
With a gentle shake of her head, Patricia signaled that all was well.
Maximilian, graced with a warm smile, began to speak. "I trust Alan has already relayed my conditions regarding our potential collaboration?"
His words hung in the air as he extended a document towards Patricia. "These are our company's specific demands. We wish to acquire a five-year user license for your company's newly launched system. During this period, we insist that no other company be allowed to use this system."
Patricia accepted the document, her eyes skimming over the contents with a practiced ease before passing it to James. He read the document swiftly, his gaze scanning each line with an intense focus.
Once he had absorbed the information, he nodded toward Patricia before addressing Maximilian. "Your company's terms are acceptable to us, but only after we finalize the contract with you. Prior to your approach, we had already signed contracts with three other companies, allowing them to use our new system if they use our chips. Regrettably, those contracts are immutable."
Maximilian reclined into the plush sofa, crossing his long legs with an elegant nonchalance. His posture was relaxed against the back of the couch, and he wore a smile that hinted at his confidence. "Our company seeks a system that is unparalleled. I believe that where there's a will, there's a way, and I trust you can devise a flawless solution."
"So, you're saying this is a non-negotiable requirement?" Patricia queried, her tone measured.
Maximilian nodded in affirmation. "Alternatively, your company could develop a system that surpasses even this one."
Both Patricia and James wore expressions of bewilderment.
Maximilian elaborated, "I've personally tested your system, and it truly is more fluid and user-friendly than any other currently available. I have yet to discover any deficiencies that require rectification. Otherwise, I wouldn't propose such a substantial sum for an exclusive five-year license. If your company can develop a superior system in a short span and it passes our company's inspection, I'd be willing to offer a higher price. If the response is favorable, based on consumer feedback, I might consider increasing the fee by five percent annually."
Patricia and James exchanged a knowing glance.
Although Patricia remained silent, her eyes were practically screaming her temptation at James. However, it was evident that the Langley Group's system development department was currently incapable of developing a superior system. She had no other option but to turn to Charles. Could Charles, who had just developed a new system, manage to create another one?
Noticing their silence, Maximilian added, "If this collaboration proves successful, we can discuss further partnerships. While our company is renowned globally for its computers, our smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches also have a significant global impact. If we're satisfied with this partnership, I'd like to continue collaborating with your company in other areas."
Patricia forced a smile, her lips tugging upwards.
The classic pie-in-the-sky tactic! It was a favorite everywhere.
Setting aside potential partnership talks, the system development alone could bring considerable revenue to the Langley Group. If this partnership proved fruitful, could it open the door to future system collaborations?
"We'll consider your proposal and inform you if we can address the issue you've presented," Patricia responded.
Maximilian extended his hand towards her. "I have faith in your company's capabilities. Not long ago, after the incident with your former CEO, everyone thought your company was doomed. But surprisingly, in less than a month, you not only saved the company from disaster but also elevated it to new heights. If you've overcome such a formidable challenge, this issue should be easily resolved."
Patricia, flattered by his high praise, felt a blush creeping up her cheeks. She shook his hand, laughing lightly. "Thank you for the compliment, Maximilian. You're making me blush. We'll return and contemplate a solution."
"I anticipate your good news!" Maximilian's eyes, reminiscent of peach blossoms, sparkled with a flirtatious glint. His smile was dazzling, akin to a mesmerizing fox spirit.
Patricia's breath hitched, her gaze held captive by his allure. She found herself entranced, her mind slightly dazed.
She had never scrutinized him closely before, but now, she was acutely aware of his striking handsomeness. His chiseled features, prominent nose, fair skin, and narrow, almond-shaped eyes that upturned slightly were framed by long, thick lashes. Standing beneath the crystal chandelier's glow, an attractive shadow was cast beneath his lower eyelids, while his soft, red lips were lightly pursed. He resembled a captivating mythical fox, as if he had stepped right out of a painting.
She had encountered a fair share of handsome men in her life.
From Martin to Hunter and then to Jeremy, each possessed their unique brand of handsomeness and beauty.
Yet, the man standing before her was strikingly different.
He was more gorgeous than any of them.
What a marvel of genetics it must have taken to create such a beautiful man.
Observing Patricia's dazed stare, James felt a wave of unease wash over him. His brows furrowed in displeasure as he covered his mouth, coughing lightly.
"In that case, we'll take our leave now!"
"Very well!"
Maximilian responded with a nod and a smile, releasing Patricia's hand.
Snapping back to reality, Patricia didn't harbor any particular thoughts about him. She was merely sizing up a good-looking man, as was her habit, giving him an extra glance or two.
After departing from Maximilian's company and returning to the presidential suite, Patricia initially failed to notice anything amiss with James.
It wasn't until she attempted to engage him in conversation—words that fell on deaf ears—that she realized he seemed upset.
"What's the matter?" she inquired.
James remained silent.
Growing more certain of her suspicion, she pressed further, "Why aren't you speaking? Are you in a foul mood?"
James continued his silence, pouring himself a glass of water in the kitchen, his back turned to her.
As Patricia approached, the sound of her footsteps prompted him to don a face mask and place the glass on the kitchen countertop.
"Are you... upset?" she ventured, her tone suggesting she already knew the answer.
James settled on the couch, picking up a business file from Nexus Holdings Corporation to peruse without looking up. "No," he responded curtly.
Patricia took a seat beside him, a sense of unease gnawing at her. "Yet you claim you're not upset. If that's the case, why didn't you respond to anything I said?"
James maintained a stoic expression, retorting, "If it's not related to work, I can choose not to respond."
Patricia was left puzzled.
He still insisted he wasn't upset.
He might as well have had 'I'm very upset' written all over his face.
But why?
Why was he upset?
Everything was fine just moments ago. Patricia was not skilled at comforting others, nor did she feel she had the right to console him. As she watched him grow increasingly agitated, she found herself at a loss, standing rigidly, her eyes welling up with hurt.
James tried to ignore her gaze, but her persistent stare eventually broke his resolve. He set the documents he was holding on the coffee table and turned to look at Patricia seriously.
Feeling his attention on her, Patricia instinctively straightened up, like a child bracing for a teacher's reprimand. Her hands nervously twisted the fabric of her pants, and her jaw clenched, ready to face whatever was to come.
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