Falling Back Into Old Ways The person who entered the room was Fred Meyers, whom I
had been trying to meet.
Apanying him I was Mr.Meyers, who had given me a ride.
Fred and I locked eyes for a moment.
It had been four years, and he looked older.
His once jet–ck hair was now salt–and–pepper, and he appeared slightly leaner.
He gazed at me for a while.“Is it really you, Ms.Chloe?” “Fred, it’s me! Chloe Hartz.
Long time no see!” I felt somewhat self–conscious about my current state.
“You need to lie down! Lie down!” Fred walked over to the bed, and As quickly got up to make room.
“Ms.Chloe, I’m sorry for keeping you waiting.
I’m truly sorry,” Fred said, sitting beside the bed.
As signaled to the other Mr.Meyers.
The two of them exited the room, leaving Fred and me alone.
I was excited and eximed, “Fred, you’re being too polite! Seeing you makes this entire trip
worthwhile.
It’s my fault for dropping in like this.
I had no other way to contact you and couldn’t meet you at yourpany!” “Mypany… Fred
paused with a troubled look.
“Let’s not talk about that.
What brings you here?” Understanding his hesitation, I didn’t press further.
Instead, I exined my visit.
I also mentioned ATL Empire and the potential partnership that could help my cause.
Fred patiently listened.
Then, he asked why I had signed a contract with Westridge Holdings and why I now wanted to switch
products.
I was honest with him, including that I hadn’t formed my ownpany.
Despite my financial constraints, I asked for a chance and promised to secure the ATL Empire project.
I hesitated when Fred asked about thepany I wished to establish.
Clearly, I was reaching beyond my means, arriving empty–handed to negotiate a deal.
“Actually, I said, slightly uncertain, “I hope to register mypany.
That way, I can take part inpetitions legally, But for now… Frad hodded as I trailed off, then urged
me to continue.
But for now, what? Eghved end confessed, “For now, came to see you to gather Information.
Despite Rancial issues, i willwpany when i retum +15 BONUS “Ms.
Chloe, can you arrange for me to meet someone from ATL Empire?” Fred asked, his difort clear
on his face.
“As a businessman, I must consider my interests.
I have no doubts about your character, but this is business.” He seemed embarrassed about making
the request, and I felt a simr unease.
As was present, but he was only an assistant.
Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org.
I also didn’t know how to approach him about this.
I used ATL Empire’s project as a lifeline to find my path.
It was far–fetched.
Tightening my grip on the nket beneath me, I reminded myself that this was my only shot.
As had mentioned helping me, so I risked it.
“I was just speaking with someone from ATL Empire.
Could you please ask him toe in?” “Sure!” Fred didn’t hesitate.
He left the room and called As back inside.
I swallowed hard and looked at As.
He stood there calmly, waiting for me to speak.
*Mr.
As, I began, “this is Mr.
Fred Meyers, the owner of Urban Builders.
Hispany specializes in cutting–edge thermally broken steel windows.
“I wanted you two to meet because ATL Empire highly prioritizes the steel windows for this project.
This visit was specifically for that reason.” Then I turned to Fred.
Fred, this is Mr.
As Pierce from ATL Empire.” I intentionally left out his professional title.
The two men shook hands, and then As asked me, “Can I speak to Mr.
Fred privately?” I held my breath, wondering what As meant by that.
Why did he want a private chat with Fred? However, I had no reason to refuse.
Fred agreed, saying, “I had the same thought.” I nodded and watched the two men leave my room.
All I could do was take a chance.
Instead, I felt stupid.