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Novel Catalog
Chapter 57
Cordy paused for a moment, processing Zoe’s directness. Most people would have softened their words, but Zoe didn’t mince them. Cordy appreciated the honesty, even if it wasn’t the glowing review she had hoped for.
“Well, I can’t argue with you,” Cordy said with a small smile, leaning forward. “Starstream Fashion has room to grow, and we’re working on improving our designs. But that’s why I reached out to you. I believe your influence can help us refine our brand and give us the push we need.”
Zoe raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the candidness in Cordy’s response. She wasn’t used to someone taking her criticism so well. “You’re really serious about this, huh?”
“I wouldn’t have made the effort if I wasn’t,” Cordy replied firmly, her eyes meeting Zoe’s. “I’m not here to just sell you an idea; I want you to believe in it, too.”
Zoe paused, contemplating her words. She could see the sincerity in Cordy’s eyes, but she wasn’t sure yet if that was enough to convince her. “I don’t work with just anyone, you know. My endorsements are carefully chosen.”
“I understand that,” Cordy said, her voice steady. “But I believe you could make a real impact on our direction, and we would give you full creative control over the collaboration. That’s something not many companies offer.”
Zoe looked at her for a long moment, considering the proposition. Quinn, who had been quietly observing the conversation, suddenly spoke up. “You know, Zoe, it’s not every day someone offers you that kind of flexibility. And Cordy’s not your average businessperson. If she’s offering you that, it means she really trusts you.”
Zoe shot Quinn a look but then smiled slightly. “I know,” she said, turning back to Cordy. “I’ll admit, you’re making it hard for me to say no.”
Cordy smiled back, relieved that Zoe wasn’t entirely dismissing the idea. “Take your time. I’m not here to pressure you. But if you decide to come on board, I’ll make sure you’re part of something unique.”
Zoe leaned back in her chair, still contemplating. “I’ve got a lot of things to think about. But I do like that you’re not just about selling a product.”
“That’s exactly why I reached out to you,” Cordy replied, her voice warm. “We’re looking for a partnership, not just a transaction.”
A silence settled between them, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. Zoe took another sip of water, her mind working. After a few moments, she nodded slowly. “Alright, I’ll give it some thought. But if I do this, it’s going to be on my terms. No compromises.”
“Of course,” Cordy said, with no hesitation. “Your terms are exactly what I’m hoping for.”
Zoe’s expression softened, a slight smile tugging at her lips. “Well, I like a challenge. Let’s see where this goes.”
The tension from earlier had dissolved, replaced by a sense of mutual respect. As their dinner continued, Cordy could feel the foundation of a potential partnership being laid. She wasn’t sure what the future would hold, but she was confident that Zoe’s involvement would make all the difference for Starstream.
Quinn, who had been quietly watching the interaction, couldn’t help but chuckle. “Look at you two, already making deals before dessert. I guess I’m the third wheel now.”
Zoe and Cordy both laughed, the atmosphere lightening further. The conversation moved to other topics, but Cordy couldn’t help but think that, despite the rocky start, things were falling into place.