Seeing the powerful tycoon arrive, Luka sprang from his chair like a coiled spring. "Mr. Grover! I didn't realize you were coming down here personally!"
Despite all his years hustling in the corporate world, Luka rarely got the chance to breathe the same air as the elite Grover family. Now that they were coming directly to him, he felt like he was about to drown in endless wealth.
Faced with Luka's pathetic, dog-like flattery, Barton offered a tight, polite smile. "Mr. Morales, there's no need for formalities. I'm solely here to discuss business with Miss Vance."
Luka beamed, practically glowing with sycophancy. "For Maeve to earn your respect is a blessing she must have cultivated in a past life."
Desperate to make a flawless impression, Luka lied through his teeth without missing a beat. "Before you arrived, I already briefed Maeve on your company's intent to collaborate. She's absolutely thrilled to be recognized by you. After all, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for her."
Luka figured Maeve would have to be severely brain-damaged to reject the Grovers' goodwill. Countless aristocratic families shattered their skulls trying to secure even a brief conversation with them. For Maeve to be in this position was pure dumb luck. It was just a damn shame that luck hadn't fallen on Anya instead.
While Luka was busy calculating his impending payout, Maeve brutally shattered his delusions.
"Grover Group isn't on my radar for any sort of partnership. I'm afraid you've wasted a trip today, Mr. Grover."
Before Barton could even react, Luka exploded. "Maeve, what kind of garbage are you spouting?! Mr. Grover came here in person to negotiate with you! People would kill for this kind of wealth!"
Maeve didn't even blink. "I don't need the money."
"You little—"
Luka frantically tried to smooth things over. "Maeve, Mr. Grover is showing his utmost sincerity. You absolutely cannot reject this."
Maeve casually shoved the gift back toward Barton. "I appreciate the thought, but keep the bag. As for the collaboration, my answer is a hard no. There is nothing to negotiate, and there's really no need for you to corner me like this."
Barton maintained his calm, relaxed posture. "You're aware that the tech exhibition was fully funded by Grover Group, correct?"
Maeve shrugged. "So what?"
Barton leaned in slightly. "We provided the platform for you to showcase your work. Naturally, Grover Group should have priority when it comes to signing you."

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