Chapter 12 Mutual Understanding

• In the afternoon, Whitney arrived at the towering Dracorise Group headquarters, riding on Charles's old scooter and clutching a meticulously prepared proposal that had consumed her every waking hour for an entire day and night.
• As she stood before the grand entrance of Dracorise Tower, bustling with a throng of people, a wave of anxiety washed over her.
• What could a prestigious organization like Dracorise Group possibly want with a family like the Chadwicks, who were hardly noteworthy?
• She wondered whether someone as insignificant as herself—the least favored member of the Chadwick clan—could actually manage to secure a partnership.
• The thought felt absurd, as if she were a beggar seeking a handout from a billionaire. What if they dismissed her like a street vendor?
• The very idea sent shivers of humiliation down her spine.
• However, despite her trepidation, she steeled herself for the challenge. After all, if she didn't take a chance, she would never find out what was possible.
• Noticing Whitney's distracted state, Charles offered a gentle pat on her shoulder, his voice reassuring. "Honey, you've got this! I truly believe you can land that contract."
• Whitney looked at Charles, baffled by his unwavering faith in her abilities. After all, he spent his days cooking at home, far removed from the complexities of the corporate world, which were far more intricate than simply simmering chicken soup.
• Yet, reflecting on the surprising twists in Charles's life lately, she began to wonder if perhaps a miracle was within reach this time, too.
• "Okay, I'm heading in," she declared, taking a deep breath to steady herself before stepping into Dracorise Group.
• Once Whitney was out of sight, Charles quickly retrieved his phone and dialed Sherly.
• "Ahem, my wife just went inside. You know how to handle things, right?"
• Sherly reassured him, "Mr. Draco, don't worry. I'll manage everything flawlessly!"
• Inside Dracorise Tower, Whitney nervously approached the receptionist, hoping to arrange a meeting with Sherly, the vice chairperson of Dracorise Group. She didn't dare to call Sherly directly, fearing she might come across as bothersome.
• "Alright, Ms. Chadwick, let me notify Ms. Hunt's secretary," the receptionist said, offering a polite yet professional smile.
• Internally, she felt impatience bubbling. A family like the Chadwicks, who hold little prestige, can hardly expect to attract the attention of someone as significant as Ms. Hunt. Didn't we just dismiss two clueless people yesterday? This feels like a waste of my time!
• Yet, barely a minute later, Sherly's secretary rushed over in high heels. "Ms. Chadwick, I apologize for my tardiness! Ms. Hunt is already waiting for you in her office. Please follow me!"
• Whitney was taken aback at first. When the secretary addressed her, she hesitated, wondering if she was truly the "Ms. Chadwick" being mentioned.
• This is strange; I just scheduled an appointment, so how did Ms. Hunt already know to send someone to escort me? It sounds like Ms. Hunt has been anticipating my arrival for some time.
• Could it really be that the vice chairperson of Dracorise Group is aware of a relatively obscure member of the Chadwicks?
• Despite her doubts, Whitney followed the secretary; this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
• Observing Whitney and the secretary depart, the previously disdainful receptionist was nearly left speechless. The usually haughty secretary was now being exceedingly respectful. Could the Chadwicks possess more influence than I realized? Thankfully, I wasn't overly condescending earlier. A wave of relief washed over her.
• Once inside Sherly's office, the secretary stepped out, leaving Whitney alone.
• "Ms. Hunt ... h-hello!" Whitney stammered, standing awkwardly just inside the door, her nervousness evident in her trembling voice.
• "Ms. Chadwick, welcome! It's a pleasure to meet you," Sherly exclaimed, quickly rising from her seat to guide Whitney toward the chair in front of her desk.
• Confronted with such warmth from Sherly, Whitney felt a mix of confusion and relief.
• Perhaps Ms. Hunt is just a genuinely nice person. She knew she needed to make the most of this face-to-face encounter.
• "Ms. Hunt, I'm here to discuss a potential partnership in healthcare. While the Chadwicks don't have much clout in Lyndale, we have made meaningful contributions to the medical field. I've also worked hard to build a reputable pharmaceutical company within the community," Whitney explained respectfully, presenting her proposal.
• "This is the document I prepared for our potential collaboration with Dracorise Group. I hope you'll take a look."
• Sherly smiled as she accepted the proposal, carefully examining its details. Whitney's proposal was impressively thorough and well-structured.
• Sherly had previously looked into the Chadwicks and noted that they, particularly Whitney's company, had a good standing in the industry. Yet, for some unknown reason, they had continually missed out on significant opportunities.
• Turning her attention back to Whitney, Sherly remarked, "Ms. Chadwick, I've reviewed your proposal, and it's quite remarkable. Your sincerity shines through, and I believe we have established a mutual understanding."