[b][center][h2]The Deal[/h2][/center][/b]

“I have mourned by husband, but unfortunately he put himself in that situation.” Shannon replied. She spoke as if she referring to some former employee she had to let go and there was little emotion carried with the words. As he wrapped his fingers considering the offer, she continued to study him. John and Mara were open books, easy to read. Alejandro was more composed, but he had a tell same as the rest- He smiled voraciously, as if it were some defense mechanism that made him feel like he was in control. She knew she had him in the place that [i]he desired[/i] since his arrival in Sol City, but only it wasn’t with the company that he anticipated. 

John and Mara’s shock at his acceptance of the deal only further confirmed her assumptions. 

Shannon quietly held her composure through Mara’s continued protest. She had what she wanted, though another old rule came to mind the same as it always did when conducted business:: [i]The deal’s not done until the money changes hands[/i]. “[url=https://www.roleplayerguild.com/posts/4703526]I know how to pick a winner, Alejandro[/url].” She said calmly. “I knew you wouldn’t let me down.” She placed her small, black clutch on the table top as if she were about to walk away, but stopped midway as a thought suddenly reemerged behind her eyes.”Oh, there is one other thing.” She said, standing and looking down at the three of them. “In your shop, you have a [url=https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strelitzia_reginae]Bird of Paradise[/url] that you keep under glass- I want that.” She said, her original grin returning slightly. “Consider it a finder’s fee.” She briefly glanced back over shoulder before walking away. “I’ll be in touch.”

[@Pyxis]