Chapter 15 - New Connections
Jack is at the café counter, watching as the café buzzes with activity. The influencer deal is paying off, and new customers are streaming in. But as he tallies the day's revenue, he notices someone standing by the window, staring at the café sign.
A young woman with a troubled expression clutches a flyer, her eyes filled with uncertainty. Jack watches as she takes a deep breath and walks in.
"Hi, can I help you?" Jack asks, flashing his Charisma Boost-enhanced smile.
The woman hesitates. "Are you Jack? The owner?"
"That's me. What can I do for you?"
"I'm Emily. I own a small bakery down the street. Or... I did." She bites her lip. "I'm about to lose it to a predatory lender."
Jack's expression hardens. "How much do you owe?"
"$10,000. I can't pay it back, and they're threatening to take everything."
[New Mission Unlocked: Form a strategic partnership. Reward: Networking Boost Lv. 1.]
Jack leans forward, his eyes sharp. "What if I told you I could help?"
Emily blinks. "You'd do that?"
"Not for free," Jack says smoothly. "I help you, and in return, you give me a stake in the bakery. We both profit."
Emily swallows. "I don't know... I'd have to think about it."
Jack nods, pulling out a business card. "Take your time. But remember – vultures don't wait."
Emily takes the card, her fingers trembling. "Thank you, Jack. I'll think about it."
Jack watches her leave, the wheels turning in his mind. This could be his first real partnership – and a stepping stone to something much bigger.