Chapter 6 Do I Seem Like I'm Joking

Mr. Barrett's secretary interjected cautiously, "We should not rush into signing the contract. We need to iron out some details later to avoid any issues. Don't you agree, Mr. Barrett?"

Mr. Barrett, on the verge of an agreement, opted instead to say in his tipsy state, "Right, we must be thorough. It would be reckless to do otherwise, compromising our company's integrity."

Ariella found herself at a loss for words.

Though frustrated, Mr. Barrett's next words offered her a glimmer of hope. "Given that AS Group is renowned for its cautious and responsible approach, I'm confident there won't be any issues with your contract. Let's proceed with the signing tonight."

Without hesitation, Ariella responded, "Our company is well-respected in the industry, and we're genuinely interested in partnering with you. We've settled all the contract details. If you're willing to trust us, let's finalize everything tonight and then celebrate properly."

Mr. Barrett offered her a meaningful smile. "I appreciate your earnestness."

Ariella returned the smile, and said, "To show our earnest intent, I'll drink three more glasses of wine. How does that sound?"

"I can see your sincere attitude."

After downing three glasses, Ariella, despite her usually strong resistance to alcohol, felt its effects creeping in.

"The contract is in my room. Come with me to retrieve it," Mr. Barrett suggested.

Ariella's smile broadened, understanding his implication.

The entire team had poured their efforts into securing this deal for over half a month. Now that Mr. Barrett was on board, Ariella was determined not to let the opportunity slip through her fingers.

Having led the public relations department for three years, Ariella was no stranger to such situations and always found a way out.

Thus, she accepted the proposal.

Mr. Barrett, who had a room reserved in the hotel for long stays, led her upstairs without delay.

Fearlessly, Ariella gave Asher a signal to wait for her downstairs. She instructed him to come to her rescue if she didn't return in ten minutes.

As they entered the room, she said, "Mr. Barrett, let's get the contract signed so we can head back down and keep the celebration going."

"There's no rush," Mr. Barrett replied, closing the door behind them. He then inquired, "Do you have a boyfriend, Miss Fletcher?"

While brushing her hair and adjusting her posture, Ariella made up an excuse. "Of course. At my age, it would be unusual not to."

Mr. Barrett moved closer, cornering her as he said with a smile, "I envy him. He's very fortunate."

Ariella humored him, "You're too kind. We're just ordinary employees, struggling even for a down payment in a major city like Friaham. How could we ever match up to you? If we finalize this contract, it'll benefit both our companies immensely. You stand to profit significantly."

Spotting the contract on a table, she quickly grabbed it and said to him, "Here's the contract. Let's sign it now."

Mr. Barrett didn't take the document. Instead, he grabbed her hand, remarking, "Miss Fletcher, a beauty like you shouldn't worry about saving for a house. Tell me which one you like, and I'll buy it for you."

Ariella attempted to pull her hand back, managing a strained smile. "Please, let's not joke about this."

"Do I seem like I'm joking?" Mr. Barrett tightened his embrace suddenly, pulling her close. Caught off guard, Ariella tried to push him away, but he held her firmly in place.

What was happening?