chapter 156 the art of negotiation

The atmosphere in the room shifted subtly as the negotiation began in earnest. The flickering fireplace cast long shadows across the walls, the warmth of its glow contrasting with the cool, calculating gazes of those seated around the coffee table. Mr. Callahan remained impeccably composed, his fingers resting lightly on the folder of documents he had brought. His suit, pressed to perfection, gave no hint of the long hours he had likely spent closing countless deals before this one.

Brainless Girl, however, was unfazed. She lounged in her seat with an air of lazy confidence, legs crossed, fingers idly drumming against the sleek wooden surface of the table. Her eyes—sharp, glinting with mischief—never left Mr. Callahan's face.

"Alright, Mr. Callahan," she began, tilting her head slightly, "let's cut through the usual sales tactics. We both know numbers aren't the only thing that seals a deal."

A lesser negotiator might have flinched at her directness, but Mr. Callahan was a seasoned professional. His expression remained neutral, a practiced mask honed through years of high-stakes transactions. He adjusted his glasses with a measured movement, taking his time before responding.

"Numbers, Miss Brainless," he said smoothly, "are what drive business. Emotional appeals have their place, but in the end, money speaks the loudest."

Brainless Girl let out a soft chuckle. "Oh, I agree. But it's not just about money—it's about value." She leaned forward slightly, resting her elbows on her knees. "And right now, you're looking at the buyer who offers far more value than the other party."

Mr. Callahan's gaze flickered toward Mark, who sat beside Brainless Girl in perfect silence. Unlike her, he radiated an entirely different kind of presence—one of quiet, unwavering confidence. He didn't need to say much. His mere presence was enough to shift the weight of the conversation.

Mist Low, on the other hand, was clearly enjoying the spectacle. He had settled into his chair with an amused expression, arms folded as he observed the unfolding negotiation like it was his evening entertainment.

Mr. Callahan's fingers tapped lightly against the folder in his lap. "And what, exactly, makes your offer more valuable than the higher bid?"

Brainless Girl smiled—a slow, knowing expression. "We can close the deal today. No delays, no complications. The seller wants a smooth transaction, and we're offering them just that." She tapped a finger against her temple. "Can the other buyer say the same?"

A flicker of interest crossed Mr. Callahan's eyes. It was subtle, almost imperceptible, but Brainless Girl caught it instantly. She had him.

"The other buyer," he said, choosing his words carefully, "is a well-established investor. Their financial credibility is unquestionable. However—" he hesitated ever so slightly, "—there are certain logistical hurdles that could delay the finalization of the purchase."

Brainless Girl's grin widened. "Exactly. So if they win the bid, your seller still has to wait for them to clear those hurdles. But if we close right now…" She gestured broadly. "That's certainty. And in business, certainty is worth more than a few extra hundred thousand."

There it was. The crack in the armor.

Mr. Callahan exhaled slowly, steepling his fingers in thought. "You make an interesting point, but that doesn't change the fact that a higher bid is still a higher bid."

For the first time, Mark spoke. His voice was calm, steady, carrying an undeniable weight. "What if we remove the seller's risk entirely?"

Brainless Girl's smirk turned positively wicked. "Oh, now we're talking."

---

The Psychological Game

Brainless Girl shifted in her seat, now leaning forward just slightly, her tone casual but her words razor-sharp.

"Let's be real, Mr. Callahan. You've been in this business long enough to know that the highest bid doesn't always mean the best deal." She spread her arms. "I mean, sure, you could wait around for the other buyer to get their affairs in order, but that's a gamble. What if something unexpected delays the process? What if their financing falls through? What if they suddenly decide they don't want the property after all?"

She shrugged, letting the questions hang in the air. "Your seller thinks they're playing it safe by considering the higher bid, but really, they're just adding uncertainty to the equation."

Mist Low let out a low whistle. "Damn. Watching you work is fun."

Brainless Girl ignored him, her focus locked onto Mr. Callahan. "But let's say the seller does take the other bid," she continued. "What happens if, three weeks from now, that buyer suddenly pulls out? Now they have to relist, go through the whole process again, and maybe even settle for a lower price because buyers will see that it's been on the market longer than expected." She leaned back with a smirk. "Not exactly ideal, is it?"

Mr. Callahan remained silent for a moment, assessing her words. Then, with an exhale, he nodded slightly. "That is a valid concern."

Brainless Girl clapped her hands together. "Glad we agree." She gestured to Mark. "Now, my client here—he's not just interested in the property. He wants it. And he's ready to move now. No contingencies, no delays. The seller gets their money immediately, and everyone walks away happy."

The fire crackled in the background, filling the brief silence that followed. Mr. Callahan was considering her words carefully. Finally, he spoke.

"If I were to take this offer to the seller, would you be willing to put down an immediate deposit to prove your commitment?"

Mark didn't even blink. "How much?"

Mr. Callahan studied him, then answered, "Ten percent of the total property value."

Mark nodded. "Done."

Brainless Girl smirked, shooting a glance at Mist Low. "See? Told you this would be fun."

Mist Low just chuckled, shaking his head.

Mr. Callahan closed his folder with a decisive motion. "Very well. I will present this offer to the seller immediately. However, if they counter with a demand for full payment up front, will you be willing to comply?"

Mark's eyes met Brainless Girl's for the briefest of moments.

"We'll see how much they value certainty," he said smoothly.

Brainless Girl grinned. "And if they push too hard, we walk. Simple as that."

Mr. Callahan gave them a long, considering look. Then, with a nod, he stood.

"I will return shortly with the seller's response," he said. "In the meantime, please make yourselves comfortable."

As he left the room, Mist Low let out a low whistle. "That was fun. So, do we think they'll bite?"

Brainless Girl stretched her arms with a content sigh. "They'd be idiots not to."

Mark simply closed his eyes, leaning back in his seat. The first move had been played. Now, it was only a matter of waiting for the board to shift in their favor.

Note : few chapters will be real life after game . thank you