Jim Adler's voice was steady over the phone, clear and professional even through the faint crackle of the line.
"Miss Lucia," he began, "I'm calling on behalf of Mr. Zhao Li Xin. He asked me to inform you that he has accepted your invitation to meet. However…" His tone dipped slightly, carrying that deliberate calm that hinted there was more. "Mrs. Zhao will be the one to determine the meeting place."
For a moment, there was silence, and then a soft chuckle drifted through the receiver. Lucia leaned back in her chair, swirling the red wine in her glass as a sly smile curved her lips.
"Oh?" she murmured, her voice lilting with amusement. "I suppose she's still upset. How cute." A mocking laugh followed, smooth and velvety like the wine she savored. "Very well. I'll wait for her summons, then."
Jim didn't comment. His professionalism left no room for emotion. "Understood, Miss Lucia. I'll relay your response to Mr. Zhao." Soon after, the call ended with a polite click.
