Glancing sidelong at my screen, my attention remained engrossed on my tablet. The young man on the display sported an aura of youth, his hair stylishly black. His facial features were delicate, crowned by a prominent nose and defined by thick eyebrows. His eyes, a vibrant shade of dark brown, held a playful glint, harmonizing with his full, slightly pouty lips – lips that seemingly bore a perpetual smile.
A refreshing presence, this young prodigy named Cain Lee had mastered the intricacies of technology and hacking.
Our paths crossed roughly three years ago. Imagine his astonishment when I, a virtual stranger, offered to fund his software development venture. Naturally, he recoiled, avoiding me as if I were a contagion. But through persistence, subtle intimidation, and a pinch of coercion, I managed to secure his agreement. How I came across his project and him, well, that remains my secret to guard.
Our mutual arrangement brought benefits to both sides. I would provide financial backing for his latest software endeavor, while he would shield my data and accounts from any threats. In that age, technology ruled supreme, and safeguarding sensitive information against hacking was paramount.
Three years elapsed, and our interactions were sparse, limited to critical matters or his updates demanding my attention. "Lei, it's been a while. Are you well?" His voice still carried traces of youthfulness.
"Hmm..." I responded without shifting my gaze.
"..."
Given his usual verbosity, his silence indicated he must be awaiting my greeting.
"How are you?" However, instead of replying, he nonchalantly cut to the chase.
"I'm working on another software project."
"How much?" I inquired, my drawing momentarily paused.
"Ten million," he stated, prompting a brief pause.
"I want 15%."
"5%, along with two years of free service." A ludicrous offer, as if I would entertain that.
"10%, and four years of free service. Take it or leave it." Over time, I had honed my negotiation skills, especially when dealing with Cain. His stare fixated on me, as though I had grown a second head.
Without breaking eye contact, he nearly shouted, "You're as eccentric as they come! I do all the work!"
"Watch your language, young man. Ten million isn't trivial either."
"..." His eyes shimmered, threatening to brim with tears. His face contorted, a precursor to crying. His impending tears held no sway over me.
My tone oozed boredom, my eyes still tethered to my tablet, "Send the voice recording to Adisa. Once the contract is signed, Rea will transfer the funds."
"And why should I believe you'll get my consent?" Cain inquired with a derisive snicker, and if I wasn't mistaken, a snort. This boy needed a lesson in respect for his elders.
"Nobody would be foolish enough to lend a child like you ten million, let alone consider it," I retorted flatly.
In truth, no sound-minded individual would lend a fledgling who hadn't yet reached puberty a thousand dollars, let alone a staggering ten million. Yet, my reasons remained valid.
"..."
As I anticipated.
Cain yielded with a sigh of defeat, "I'll email Adisa."
With that, he left, an aggrieved expression clouding his features, not even bothering with a farewell.
"You seem rather pleased."