The inauguration party was proceeding without a hitch, just as Prime had planned. However, an unexpected variable emerged: Emma Frost. He couldn't decipher the thoughts of this woman. Every word that left her mouth seemed loaded with ulterior motives, leaving Prime intrigued.
Aside from knowing that Emma was a mutant, Prime knew nothing else about her. According to Emma's own words, she found him interesting, but Prime couldn't determine whether that was good or bad news. He truly couldn't read her. Just being next to her required an extra dose of caution to ensure his true identity remained hidden.
"I'm flattered by your words, Miss Frost, but honestly, I'm not sure I possess those high standards you mention. Any genius could achieve the same feat. Personally, I find Tony much more impressive than myself"
Prime observed Emma Frost's reaction to his words, but she didn't seem bothered; on the contrary, a slight smirk appeared on her face. As Prime pondered what this could mean, Emma Frost decided to express her thoughts.
"Tony is indeed interesting, but still... he's just easy to read, like an open book"
Once again, that strange feeling enveloped Prime upon hearing Emma's words. It was as if her sentences carried a deeper meaning than she let on or than he initially imagined. As usual, her words were imbued with malicious intent.
"But you're different, Mr. Ryan. No matter how hard I try, I can't figure out what you're thinking. And just to be clear, I'm not speaking metaphorically"
Prime couldn't hide his surprise at Emma Frost's words. She was basically revealing herself as a mutant right then and there, but Prime couldn't comprehend why. Would this bring her some benefit? Why reveal herself now, in a place where others could overhear? Prime was filled with questions but had no answers.
"What kind of response do you expect from me by telling me this?"
As soon as Prime finished speaking, Emma smiled, her blue lipstick highlighting her natural charm. As stunning as she was, Prime was not the type to lose his composure or be swayed by foolish impulses.
"Mr. Ryan, let's be frank. You already know I'm a mutant, and I'm also aware that you're not human. What do I desire? It's simple: a partnership. I believe that joining forces with you would take me to new heights. It would be a shame to let an opportunity like this slip by, and that's why I'm being completely sincere. Is that answer sufficient?"
Prime didn't expect her to respond, so he was surprised when Emma actually clarified his doubts. However, there was something about her demeanor that sparked distrust; everything involving Emma seemed loaded with ulterior motives, as if she could stab him in the back at any moment.
"I won't lie; your words are tempting from a business perspective, but you are simply too suspicious for me to accept them without reservations. Moreover, my previous experience with mind-reading mutants hasn't been the best, which likely makes me more alert than usual. I apologize if that sounds exaggerated"
Emma maintained her characteristic smile as she lightly swirled her wine glass. Prime watched her, waiting for her next words.
"Don't worry, Mr. Ryan. I have an idea of who you're referring to. Honestly, I don't want to be your enemy. I don't know exactly what you are, but I'm sure I wouldn't stand a chance in a confrontation. It doesn't make sense to enter a fight I know I'll lose, and I gain nothing by making you an enemy"
As she said this, Emma pulled out a piece of paper from her small purse and wrote something down. Then she extended the paper to Prime, who took it and glanced at it quickly: it was just numbers. Confirming his suspicion, Emma added.
"This is my personal number. If you want to reach out, I'll be available whenever you call. After all, I'm the one proposing an alliance"
Prime didn't immediately respond to Emma's words; instead, he tucked the paper into his pocket.
"I'll use your contact with gratitude when the right opportunity and moment arise"
Emma flashed a sidelong smile at Prime and then delicately picked up another drink. Each of her movements sparked admiration in Prime.
"Then, Mr. Ryan, I wish you an excellent remainder of the day. I truly hope we meet again soon. Oh, and your presentation was really impressive, by the way!"
After saying this, Emma moved away with the same ease with which she approached. Her steps were elegant and refined, and Prime couldn't help but admire her. Emma's proposal truly piqued his interest, but he didn't want to accept it without first understanding better who he was dealing with. Additionally, Prime was eager to hear Sara's opinion on the matter.
(Did you hear the conversation, didn't you?)
Prime reflected as he sat at an empty table. The atmosphere around him exuded a certain presence, and no one dared to approach. Unbeknownst to him, he was grateful for the moment of solitude.
(If you're referring to your conversation with Emma Frost, then yes, I heard it)
(And what did you think?)
(What did I think? Well… she doesn't seem very trustworthy, but she also doesn't give the impression that she'll harm us. I'd say we can trust her to a certain extent, especially when it comes to business)
Prime was surprised by Sara's response; she spoke with such confidence, as if she were entirely certain of her words.
(Why do you seem so convinced of what you're saying? Did you have a premonition or something?)
Prime remained silent, raising an eyebrow, but he didn't expect Sara's next words.
(It's not exactly a premonition... it's more of an intuition)
(... Are you serious?)
(Hey, just a reminder: it was my intuition that kept me from stepping on you the first time we met)
Prime immediately fell silent, realizing that although Sara's words seemed absurd, there was a certain credibility to them. He couldn't simply disregard what she was saying.