Novel Full Chapter 622: Business Proposal
Villain Ch 622. Business Proposal
Allen maintained a calm expression despite his surprise at seeing Noah and James accompanying Mila. He recognized them immediately from their first unpleasant encounter, though their polished appearance today contrasted sharply with the casual youthful clothes they had worn before. Their suits and neatly styled hair gave off a strong businessman vibe that took Allen aback.
Vivian seemed equally shocked to see Sophia’s past simpering followers now appearing in an official capacity. She shot Allen a look that said she may have misjudged the pair’s status and standing.
“Have a seat Noah, James,” Allen said breezily, as if their presence was expected and welcome. “I didn’t realize you both had a close relationship with Mila.” He wondered whether he should feel irony at the situation – Mila being his avid fan, yet her brother aligned against him.
No matter, Allen was determined to uncover their agenda here, suspecting it involved more than just social pleasantries between gaming rivals.
At Allen’s cue, Brad swiftly fetched two chairs and placed them on either side of the existing seat. Once Mila, James and Noah sat down. Brad then returned to stand unobtrusively behind Allen in a clear show of support.
James broke the momentary silence in an overly friendly tone. “You’re looking well, Allen. Much better than our last meeting.”
Allen’s eyes narrowed slightly. “I could say the same to you both.” He decided to get straight to the point. “So what brings you here today? I doubt this is just a friendly chat between gaming rivals. Does this have something to do with Sophia? Did she put you up to meeting with me for some reason?” He made no attempt to keep the bitterness from his voice when mentioning Sophia’s name.
Clearly, his patience with her machinations had worn thin.
“No, nothing like that,” James replied hastily, holding up a hand. ” We aren’t Jacob (INeedAHotGF’s player). To be honest, we haven’t spoken to Sophia in quite awhile. Our being here today has nothing to do with her.”
Noah chimed in. “James is telling the truth. After the falling out between Elio and Sophia, we both felt it best to…distance ourselves from the situation.”
Allen noted their careful choice of words. “Is that so? Well that was certainly prudent of you.” He crossed his arms. “So then tell me the real reason for this little reunion.”
James and Noah exchanged an apprehensive look.
Mila suddenly spoke up, “Sophia?” She repeated the name with a frown, clearly recognizing it. But she hadn’t expected James and Noah to also be personally acquainted with Allen’s ex. Mila glanced between them as if they’d betrayed her, though they ignored her questioning look.
Noah smirked, a glint in his eyes. “We’re here to discuss more important matters,” he said, gaze locked with Allen’s. “Let’s just say we have a business proposal we think you’ll find interesting.”
Allen lifted one eyebrow. “I’m listening.”
“As you know, we are from MagicSword Interactive, a major player in the gaming industry,” Noah began. “We have an exciting new project in development – a next-gen VRMMORPG. And we want you on the design team.”
Allen held his inward cringe due to the proposal, but he couldn’t say a word since he couldn’t announce his identity yet. For sure, this garnered Allen’s full attention. He sat forward, intrigued but wary. “Go on.”
“Your insights into gaming mechanics and player psychology are genius-level,” James jumped in energetically. “As our lead designer, you could build us revolutionary AI, custom quest logic – help make this title truly innovative!”
Noah held up a hand to rein in his over-eager colleague. “What we’re saying is – your talents are being wasted as just another Hell’s Gate player. Come join our team, Allen. With MagicSword’s resources backing you, there’s no limit to what we could accomplish.”
Allen leaned back, staring at them for a long, assessing moment. They met his gaze unflinchingly.
’Okay… this is so ironic,’ he thought. He found this funny. So funny to the point he had to cover his mouth with his hand to make an illusion that he was thinking when he was actually holding his laughter.
“An interesting proposal,” he said at last. “But I’m curious…why me? MagicSword must already have scores of competent designers on staff. What makes you think I’d be interested?”
Noah nodded, having expected the question. “Several reasons. One – your skills speak for themselves based on observations of your play strategies. Also, our company has weathered some internal shake-ups recently. Fresh ideas from visionaries like yourself are vital for our next launch.”
He paused, seeming to weigh his words. “And frankly – joining forces just makes logical sense. You understand the value of connections. By affiliating with MagicSword, you grant yourself access to exponentially more influence capital.” Noah held his look meaningfully. “I’m sure I don’t need to spell out what doors that could open.”
Vivian glanced at Allen and decided to play her part. “Don’t tell me you’re actually considering this, Allen,” she burst out. “For all we know this could be some elaborate trap. It’s too suspicious!”
Allen patted her arm absently, still engaged in a silent clash of wills with Noah and James. Then abruptly he laughed.
“I admit, you’ve intrigued me with this proposition of yours.” He flashed a wolfish, competitive grin. “MagicSword has definitely upped the stakes.” His amusement faded, replaced by sharp assessment. “But I’m not interested,” Allen stated flatly.
“Why?” asked James, unable to mask his curiosity. “This could be an incredible opportunity for you.”
Noah’s expression turned shrewd. “Is it because Jordan Goldborne has already recruited you?” he asked bluntly.
Allen narrowed his eyes, thoughts racing. He hadn’t expected Noah to make that connection. Clearly, these two had done their research on his background. Still, they didn’t seem to know Allen’s closest secret – that he was actually Jordan Goldborne’s son. And Allen intended to keep it that way.
“My arrangements with Mr. Goldborne are confidential,” Allen replied coolly. “Suffice to say, I’m quite satisfied with my current projects.”
He could see Noah and James bristling with more questions, but he forestalled them with an indifferent wave.
“Business is business, gentlemen. I’m simply not interested in collaborating with MagicSword at this time.” Allen stood, signaling the finality of his decision.