Hearing Philip's words, V, standing beside Peter, couldn't hold back her laughter.
"Hahaha, Peter, you're out here trying to invest in their studio, but the guy thinks you're insane!"
Peter's face darkened, a mix of frustration and amusement. He hadn't even finished his sentence before being rudely interrupted.
"What? Investment?" Philip froze for a moment, and then his expression transformed. In less than a second, the grumpy programmer standing in the doorway shifted into an eager, almost servile demeanor. "Boss, please, come in! Sit down!"
Philip didn't hesitate. His earlier hostility melted away as soon as he noticed the Oasis logo on Peter's clothing collar. Oasis was an elite brand in Night City, and anyone wearing it was clearly someone of wealth and influence.
Philip's earlier impatience had been due to being interrupted while working, but hearing the word "investment" had snapped him back to reality.
Peter smirked, watching the quick change in the man's attitude. "You certainly know how to switch gears fast."
"What can I say? It's the urgency of the situation!" Philip admitted, scratching the back of his head awkwardly.
Peter glanced around the apartment. "Fair enough," he muttered before letting himself be led to the only clean spot in the cluttered room—a small coffee table surrounded by mismatched chairs. V trailed behind, still trying to stifle her laughter.
Philip gestured for them to sit, pulling up a chair himself. His expression turned serious as he cautiously asked, "Boss, I overheard the lady say something about you wanting to invest? Is that true?"
Peter nodded, leaning back in his chair. "That's right. I came across your game, Super Dream, and I see a lot of potential in it."
Hearing this, Philip's eyes widened. He leaned forward in surprise but quickly masked his emotions. "Super Dream, huh?" he asked, his tone guarded.
Peter reached into his pocket and pulled out a chip—the replica Judy had given him. "I tried it out, and I think it's promising. But before we go any further, I suggest you try this version."
Philip's face darkened slightly. He frowned, clearly displeased. "Sir, that chip… How did you get it?"
Philip knew the demo version of Super Dream had only been shared with one potential investor. The realization that Judy had handed it off to someone else angered him. However, he also knew there wasn't much he could do about it.
"Relax," Peter said, holding up a hand to stop him. "Before you say anything, just test the chip. Play it and see for yourself."
Though hesitant, Philip ultimately nodded. His curiosity outweighed his frustration. He took the chip, slotted it into his equipment, and put on the necessary neural gear.
As Philip started the game, Peter and V exchanged glances. V leaned in and whispered, "You really think he's going to bite?"
Peter smirked. "He will. Trust me."
Thirty minutes later, Philip pulled off the gear, his hands trembling slightly. His expression was a mix of awe and disbelief.
"This… This game…" Philip stammered. He looked up at Peter, his voice tinged with frustration and confusion. "How did you do this? We were still working on basic mechanics and skills for the characters, and yet you… you've perfected it!"
Peter didn't respond immediately. He simply let Philip process what he had seen.
After a moment, Philip sighed, slumping back in his chair. His earlier excitement gave way to a sense of defeat. "Since you've already perfected the game, why are you here? What do you need from us?"
Peter leaned forward, locking eyes with Philip. "I understand how much work you've poured into this. I can see that you're passionate about what you do. Am I right?"
Philip nodded slowly, unsure where the conversation was going.
"Here's the deal," Peter continued. "I'll provide you with the resources you need—funding, salaries, and creative freedom. All I ask is that you and your team work under me. Focus on making great games. I'll handle the rest."
Philip blinked, stunned by the offer. He opened his mouth to respond, but Peter wasn't finished.
"I know your situation, Philip," Peter added. "Your team is struggling. You've burned through your savings, and just yesterday, there was a major argument within the studio, wasn't there?"
Philip's eyes widened. "How do you know about that?"
Peter smiled faintly. "Night City's middlemen have an extensive information network. It wasn't hard to find out. Let's face it—you're out of options. Either you accept my offer, or you'll have to abandon your dream entirely."
The room fell silent as Philip processed Peter's words. V crossed her arms, watching the scene unfold with interest.
Philip's hands tightened into fists. He hated being backed into a corner, but he knew Peter was right. The studio's funds were depleted, and without outside help, there was no way they could continue.
"Fine," Philip said finally, his voice low but firm. "I'll agree to your terms. But I have one condition."
Peter raised an eyebrow. "Go on."
"You'll cover the remaining development costs for Super Dream upfront. I want to see this project finished the way we envisioned it."
Peter smiled, leaning back in his chair. "Done. Give me a number, and I'll transfer the funds immediately. I'll also cover your team's salaries for the next few months."
Philip hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Alright. I'll get you the figures."
The tension in the room eased slightly as the two men reached an agreement. V, who had been silent for most of the exchange, finally spoke up.
"Well, that was quicker than I expected," she said, smirking. "Looks like you've got yourself a studio, Peter."
Peter glanced at her with a grin. "I told you he'd bite."
---
Later that evening, Philip gathered the remaining members of the team to inform them of the news. Though some were initially skeptical about Peter's motives, the promise of financial stability and creative freedom quickly won them over.
By the end of the night, Peter had successfully acquired the studio. He left with a satisfied smile, knowing he had taken the first step toward building something great.
V walked beside him as they headed back to the car. "You know," she said, "for someone who acts all humble, you've got a real knack for playing the big shot."
Peter chuckled. "It's not about acting big, V. It's about recognizing potential and giving people the chance to prove themselves. That's how you build something worth remembering."
V shook her head, a small smile tugging at her lips. "You're either a genius or a lunatic, Peter. I still haven't decided which."
Peter didn't respond immediately. He simply looked out at the glowing skyline of Night City, a determined glint in his eyes.
"Maybe I'm a little of both," he said finally.
---
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