"I need a distribution partner," Wren said directly."Someone to help me expand my market reach beyond this town.I have unique products that sell well, but I don't have the connections or experience to scale up properly."
"I see."Zhao Wei's expression was thoughtful."And you came to me specifically because...?"
"Because your reputation is solid.You've been established for twenty years with no scandals.People speak well of you."She paused."And because I've met you.I trust you."
"I appreciate that."He sipped his tea."I assume Viktor Andersen has already made you an offer?"
So he knew.She took a moment to consider that."He has.Very generous terms.But..."She chose her words carefully."Something about it didn't feel right.He was too smooth.Too pleased about the rumors linking us romantically, even while denying them."
Zhao Wei nodded slowly."Viktor is an excellent businessman.Charming, strategic, very successful.But he has a tendency to...collect assets.People, properties, opportunities.And once you're in his network, it's difficult to maintain independence."
"That's what I was afraid of."
"Smart instinct."He set down his cup."I'll be honest with you, Wren.I've been considering approaching you myself.I heard about Viktor's offer and thought you deserved a better option."
"You were going to come to me?"
"This week, actually.The migration is coming, and I know you'll be evacuating.I thought I'd catch you before you left town."He smiled."You saved me the trip."
Relief flooded through her."So you're interested?"
"Very.Your products are unique and high quality.Madame Lin can't keep your silk in stock.Mei tells me everything you bring her sells within days.That's remarkable, especially for a new producer."He pulled out a ledger."Let me show you what I'm thinking."
For the next hour, they discussed terms.Zhao Wei had contacts in three other cities that were smaller than this one, but wealthy.He could introduce her products to established merchants, handle negotiations and transportation, manage accounts.
"I propose a seventy-thirty split," he said."Seventy for you, thirty for me.You're providing the unique goods, I'm providing logistics.The split reflects that."
"That's more than Viktor offered."
"Viktor was offering sixty-forty because he was factoring in other considerations."Zhao Wei's tone was diplomatic but clear."I'm only interested in the business relationship.Clean, professional, mutually beneficial."
"What about volume?Minimum commitments?"
"None.You provide what you can, when you can.I understand you're still learning your production cycles."He made a note."However, consistency helps.If you can commit to regular deliveries, even small ones, it makes planning easier."
"I can do regular deliveries.Some plants produce ongoing crops, others are seasonal or one-time.I'm still mapping it all out."
"That's fine.We'll learn together."He looked at her directly."I should mention that working with me means working with my family business.My wife handles accounts, my children help with various aspects.Jin is uninvolved in the business, but Mei-Lin helps with inventory sometimes.Is that acceptable?"
"More than acceptable.Mei-Lin is wonderful."
"She speaks very highly of you as well."His expression warmed."She needs good friends.And you've been good for her."
They worked out details on delivery schedules, payment terms, and communication methods.Everything was straightforward, clearly explained, and fair.
"One more thing," Zhao Wei said as they finalized."The migration starts in two days.You're evacuating, yes?"
"Yes.Mei-Lin offered me her guest room, and space for my animals on your property."
"Good.We have plenty of room."He hesitated."I know you're attached to your farm, but that migration is dangerous.The herds are massive, unpredictable.Even strong properties take damage."
"Everyone keeps warning me."
"Because it's serious.I've seen people die trying to protect their homes during migration."His tone was gentle but firm."Whatever happens to your property, it can be rebuilt.You cannot.Promise me you'll stay safe in town for the full week."
"I promise."
"Good."He extended his hand."Then we have a partnership.Welcome to Zhao Trading Company."
