Chapter 567: No Time Like the Present

Chapter 567: Chapter 567: No Time Like the Present

An obsequious voice immediately came from the other end of the line. "Okay, okay, then we’ll leave it to Assistant Rhodes. Thank you so much! We really, really appreciate it!"

CLICK.

Theo Rhodes hung up without another word and turned to Claire Sinclair. "Master, did you hear that? These damn scammers are trying to pull one over on us."

Claire Sinclair let out a cold laugh, a plan already forming in her mind. "Wait until eight tonight. I’ll call him back then."

Theo Rhodes was confused. "Master, why can’t we call him back now?"

Claire Sinclair explained, "You only put on airs for the shameless. Acting aloof once in a while helps build your prestige."

Theo Rhodes couldn’t help but give her a thumbs-up. "Master, you’ve taught me something new again."

Claire Sinclair suddenly changed the subject. "Tonight, I’m going to propose that Director Marshall give us a tour of the factory. Let’s see if he dares."

"I doubt he will," Theo Rhodes said skeptically.

"Anything is possible. Just wait." A sharp glint flashed in Claire Sinclair’s eyes. ’Director Marshall is openly asking me for a promotion, so he must be fully prepared. I’m actually rather curious to see what he’s up to.’

-

That night, Claire Sinclair deliberately waited until eight-thirty to call Director Marshall back. She said in a casual tone, "Director Marshall, let me lay out the ground rules. If you want to partner with the Astoria Daily, you first need to meet the following conditions:

First, we need to verify that your factory is licensed for production. Second, your pharmacy must provide all its legal marketing credentials. And the last point is crucial: your pharmacy’s staff must hold valid medical licenses.

Once those three conditions are met, I’ll also need to inspect your factory environment myself. Of course, if you feel you can’t meet these requirements, then don’t even bother discussing a partnership. The Astoria Daily operates with integrity. We don’t write fake articles, and we don’t run false ads."

After hearing her demands, Director Marshall showed no sign of hesitation. In fact, he responded with complete ease. "Reporter Sinclair, please rest assured. We possess all three of the credentials you mentioned, and you’re welcome to visit the factory anytime. How about we schedule a time for me to give you a tour?"

Claire Sinclair furrowed her brow slightly. ’Such a bold invitation. This could be a trap.’

’Still, if I want to get to the bottom of this, I have to take some risks. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.’

Without a moment’s hesitation, Claire Sinclair said, "No time like the present. Let’s do it tomorrow. I’m staying at the Rainbow Grand Hotel."

"Of course, of course. I can send a car to pick you up tomorrow, or would you prefer to drive yourself?"

"I have my own driver."

"Perfect. In that case, shall I come meet you at nine o’clock tomorrow?"

"Fine. See you tomorrow."

Claire Sinclair hung up and looked up at Theo Rhodes. "Go back and get some rest. We’re going to check things out tomorrow."

"Okay. So we’re done for today, right?"

"We’re done."

"Haha! In that case, I’m going to go out and do some sightseeing. I’ll buy some local specialties for my mom. See you, Master!" Theo Rhodes exclaimed, running off excitedly.

The phrase "local specialties" echoed in Claire’s mind. ’Should I buy some for Mr. Quincy to try?’

’But local specialties usually don’t taste very good...’

’Oh, well. I’ll just have Winston and the others bring a few watermelons back.’

-

Early the next morning, fully prepared, Claire Sinclair went downstairs with Theo Rhodes to the hotel lobby.

It seemed Director Marshall had been waiting for some time. As soon as he saw the two of them, he rushed over to greet them with immense enthusiasm.

"Reporter Sinclair, hello! I’m Cyrus Marshall. You’re even more beautiful in person than on TV! You’re so talented, and such a gifted writer. I’m a huge admirer of your work."