We finally signed the contract, each of us keeping a copy.
I tucked mine away, feeling rather pleased with myself. Not only had I secured a new business partner, but I also gained access to his information network.
Now, if only every business negotiation could be this profitable.
"Will you be staying for the auction later?" Maximus asked.
"Yeah. I want to see if they have any of the items I'm looking for."
"You'd be surprised how many people come here searching for something and end up finding exactly what they want." He chuckled. "If you'd like, I can let you inspect the items scheduled for auction before it begins."
My eyes lit up. "Then can I take them, too?"
Maximus laughed again as he immediately switched to a straight face and delivered a big, fat, "NO."
"But we're business partners now!" I protested.
"That doesn't mean you can take my items for free."
"Who said anything about taking them for free?"
