When Sophia first saw the proposal, something felt off, but she couldn't pinpoint why due to her lack of expertise. After hearing Croze's suggestions, she finally understood: the plan was too small-minded, likely due to Ethan's inexperience. She fully agreed with Croze's assessment and was pleased with his performance, but she needed more details.
"Please explain how we should proceed," she asked.
Seeing Sophia agree with his perspective, Croze adjusted his posture to sit more upright, placing his hands on his knees before speaking. "Any business is about balancing costs and profits. To discuss implementation, we need detailed calculations. Only after estimating the specific costs and projecting future profits can I provide a concrete plan."
Sophia felt a headache coming on. She knew this meant a lengthy process, yet she had a meeting with Ethan and Saberi after dinner.
"What if you made a rough estimate? Could you give me a preliminary plan?" she asked.
"Based on this proposal, there are many initial steps: market research, location selection, material costs, labor costs, and more. Designing stores to appear exclusive involves more than just materials; it requires thoughtful design and subtle cues to influence behavior," Croze explained, laying out the facts without directly saying he couldn't do it.
Sophia understood what he meant and asked, "How long will this take?"
"With my current resources and other responsibilities, it would take at least a month to prepare a revised proposal," Croze replied.
"That's not acceptable," Sophia said firmly. "My uncle can't stay here indefinitely, and this plan depends on him. You have three days. Have your team prioritize this project. Also, I want you to lead this effort."
Despite the tight deadline, Croze wasn't alarmed; in fact, he was excited. Sophia's urgency indicated a significant opportunity. He cleared his throat and said, "If that's your order, I'll comply. But I have a small request."
Sophia frowned. A mere financial officer making demands irritated her. She suppressed her anger and replied with a forced smile, "Speak."
Croze noticed her reaction but remained calm. "Miss, please don't misunderstand. I'm not making demands. I've served the Lawson family my entire life, but I'm getting old and many tasks are beyond my capacity. I had planned to retire soon, but at your call, I'm willing to contribute a bit more. However, age is catching up with me, so I'd like someone else to take over as the project lead."
Sophia sensed his underlying message and asked, "Who do you recommend?"
Without hesitation, Croze said, "My eldest son, Papalia."
Sophia had anticipated this. While she was inclined to agree, she didn't know much about Croze's son and chose caution. "I understand your wish to help your son, but—"
Before she could finish, Croze interjected, "While my son's reputation isn't stellar, his business acumen is unquestionable. Please trust me on this. Otherwise, I wouldn't dare recommend him to you."
Sophia smiled, "Reputation often reflects one's integrity. I'm curious, what did your son do? You can choose not to say if it's embarrassing; I can find out myself."
Sophia hadn't rejected the idea, but Croze saw her question as a final assessment. He candidly replied, "My son fathered three illegitimate children, each with different mothers. One of these children was with a knight's wife within our family. The knight challenged him to a duel, but he fled, showing no shame."
Sophia burst out laughing, "That knight's wife must be the noblewoman who's been all over the gossip lately, set to be honored by the Duke. What's her name... Grace Kardashian?"
Croze's face reddened as he confirmed, "Yes, it's her."
Sophia laughed so hard her stomach hurt. After a while, she regained composure, "I'm sorry for my rudeness."
"No apology necessary," Croze said, embarrassed. "He brought this upon himself."
"You've really thought this through," Sophia remarked. "You might not know, but the knight who challenged your son is my business partner's protector. While I don't mind your son's indiscretions, having him lead this project might cause trouble with that knight. You're putting me in a difficult position."
Croze, with great effort, knelt at Sophia's feet, his voice trembling, "I know the knight and the likely encounters. That's why I ask you to let my son lead this project. If anyone can save him, it's you, Miss Sophia. Please help this old man."
Sophia didn't hesitate long. She gently tapped Croze's left shoulder, "Get up."
"Does this mean you agree?" Croze asked, hopeful.
"Did I have a choice?" Sophia sighed. "I'll help you this time, but I can only mediate. All compensation will be on you. So, tell me, what have you prepared? And don't tell me this was a sudden request without any preparation."
"Of course," Croze admitted, embarrassed. "I've prepared 300 gold coins, my entire pension. Also, a 16-year-old maiden, though not of noble birth, she's beautiful and kind-hearted. You know her, my youngest daughter, Belia."