428: Calculated Risks

The air in the café was laden with an uneasy tension as Emma laid out her daring proposition before Alex. Despite the intimate setting, their conversation was anything but personal—it was a negotiation, each word weighed and delivered with precision. Emma leaned forward, her eyes sharp, "Think about it, Alex. This deal benefits us both. You know my capabilities and my resources. With this partnership, we can both achieve more than working with Teddy could ever offer." Alex folded his arms, a skeptic smile playing on his lips. He admired Emma's directness and sharp mind, qualities he had always respected, even if it occasionally bordered on brashness. "You're offering quite a lot, Emma, and I appreciate the trust. But 40%? Come on, that seems a bit conservative given the risks I'd be taking." Emma's gaze didn't waver. "I understand your concerns, but consider the strategic advantage. This isn't just about percentages—it's about positioning. With my plan, we don't just enter the mark