At dinner, an elderly man with white hair and a serious demeanor sat directly across from Sophia. This was Mr. Croze, the family's financial officer, whom Sophia had invited to discuss her potential investment in the coffee business. While Sophia wasn't well-versed in business matters, she knew the importance of consulting an expert. Mr. Croze had been managing the Lawson family's finances for his entire career.
Sophia briefly explained the situation and handed Croze the business proposal. With great respect, Croze accepted the document and began reading it intently, ignoring the delicious food before him. He didn't even unfold his napkin, indicating he understood that this was no ordinary dinner invitation.
After reading the proposal with a stoic expression, Croze carefully placed it back on the table, aligning it perfectly with the table's edge. He also straightened his cutlery before speaking slowly, "Miss Sophia, forgive my bluntness, but this proposal is rubbish. You absolutely should not invest in it!"
Sophia frowned. This wasn't the feedback she had anticipated. She recognized some flaws in the proposal but felt it had potential. Why did this professional give such a harsh critique?
"Could you please elaborate, Mr. Croze?" she asked.
"From this proposal, it's clear that Sir Ethan has never done business, at least not properly," Croze began. "Opening a coffee shop to create a trend? That's not a business; it's laughable! This is the kind of small-time venture run by common folk, barely scraping by. Are you seriously considering joining such a venture? It would be a disgrace."
Sophia felt a bit embarrassed. Although she dealt with business regularly, she only cared about the profit margins, often just glancing at the figures without delving into the details. Clearly, Croze viewed the proposal as amateurish, hardly worthy of being called a business.
"Thank you for your advice. But is there anything of value in this proposal?" Sophia asked earnestly.
Croze was taken aback. He knew Sophia well; she usually heeded expert advice but always added her own insights. If she insisted on this matter, it meant she had reasons she couldn't ignore. As her subordinate, it was his duty to support her decisions.
Clearing his throat, Croze began, "Actually, there are some good points. For instance, the idea of establishing a brand concept is quite innovative. It's similar to the heraldry used by noble families, which should work. The notion of building a high-end brand while selling lower-end products is something we've always done, though we've never summarized it this way. Another noteworthy idea is the move away from heavy assets, which I believe aligns well with our current situation."
Croze referred to the idea of not investing heavily in real estate, a concept Sophia had modified. Despite his praise, Sophia blushed slightly, realizing Croze was being polite because he knew she made that change.
"You say that because you know I made that change, not to embarrass me, right?" Sophia said with a shy smile.
"No, no," Croze shook his head gently. "I genuinely believe your adjustment is wise. Sir Ethan's idea of investing in heavy assets, like a global chain of restaurants, would require a stable legal and political environment, which we lack. Thus, your practical approach is more suitable. Additionally, while heavy asset investments can yield significant returns, they're best acquired through means other than legitimate transactions. If someone refuses to sell prime real estate, we can make their lives unbearable until they do."
"Wow!" Sophia laughed, covering her forehead in mock disbelief. "You're quite straightforward!"
"I know you prefer directness," Croze said, smiling. "I apologize if my bluntness was offensive."
"No need to apologize," Sophia replied, smiling back. "I appreciate your honesty. So, if I decide to go ahead with this plan and want you to oversee it, what would you suggest?"
Croze felt both troubled and elated. He had many responsibilities but being chosen by Sophia was a great honor. After a moment's hesitation, he made up his mind.
"If you're committed to this venture, it needs significant upfront investment. We should start with at least twenty locations to ensure sufficient market coverage, starting with Marlow City and Vilon Port. If the trend catches on, we can expand to other cities, aiming for a national chain."
Sophia nodded thoughtfully, appreciating Croze's input. She knew this was the kind of professional advice she needed to make Ethan's vision a reality.