Chapter 519

Michael, already irritated, snapped at Andrew. “We’re talking about serious corporate business here—high-level collaborations. Do you even understand what that means? If you don’t, stop interrupting just to make yourself seen!”

Michael was already annoyed by Andrew’s “suggestions,” and now, with Andrew raising another question, a wave of dread swept over him. He feared Andrew might come up with something that would send his blood pressure through the roof.

Andrew replied calmly, “Who said I don’t understand? When it comes to pharmaceuticals, none of you here are even qualified to speak in my presence.”

Ruby sneered. “Mr. Lloyd, let’s not pretend you know what you’re talking about. Are you seriously trying to convince us that you’re some kind of expert in medicine? What, are you claiming to be a miracle-working doctor or something?”

To Ruby, Andrew was just a lackey trying to pick a fight for Lauren’s sake—nothing more than a clueless, incompetent man, unworthy of her attention. However, as soon as she finished her mockery, she noticed something strange.

Michael, Troy, and the other executives looked uncomfortable, as though they wanted to say something but hesitated.

Lauren smirked and said, “Ruby, you’re not entirely wrong. Mr. Lloyd is a doctor—and not just any doctor. He’s a legendary healer who can cure virtually anything.”

Ruby’s eyes widened in shock. “Mr. Rhodes, Mr. MacAfee, is that true?”

Michael, unwilling but unable to lie, grudgingly admitted, “Yes, Mr. Lloyd’s medical skills are truly extraordinary. In this field, he’s an expert.”

Ruby’s expression shifted, her confidence shaken, though she forced a stiff smile. “Well, I didn’t expect Mr. Lloyd to have such capabilities.”

Andrew remained composed. “No need for flattery, Ms. Dickinson. Since this is a partnership, I assume I can ask a few relevant questions, right?”

Ruby’s smile turned strained. “Of course, Mr. Lloyd. But you must understand that I’m only a representative of Amberpeak Corporation. I’m not an expert in technical or medical matters.”

Andrew spoke with an unhurried tone. “That’s fine. The questions I have are basic and don’t involve technical details. But if you can’t answer even these, it might call into question just how legitimate your role as Amberpeak Corporation’s representative really is.”

Ruby silently cursed him but forced herself to respond. “Alright, Mr. Lloyd. If you have questions, I’ll answer what I can, though I reserve the right to withhold information regarding trade secrets or proprietary matters.”

Andrew nodded. “First question—this collaboration with Rhodes Corporation, is it a direct investment from Amberpeak Corporation, a joint research effort, or are you simply looking to use Rhodes Corporation as a manufacturing partner?”

Ruby exhaled slightly in relief at the question, smiling as she replied. “Amberpeak Corporation’s capabilities in research and development are already industry-leading, and we don’t lack funding.

“So, this collaboration is purely for Rhodes Corporation to manufacture our products. The initial order is worth two billion. We’ll transfer the payment immediately as soon as the products are produced.”

The mention of a two-billion-dollar order caused the executives’ eyes to light up with excitement. They were clearly tempted.

Andrew scoffed. “So, you’re asking Rhodes Corporation to manufacture the products first, and then Amberpeak will pay afterward?”

Ruby responded with a confident tone. “Of course. While the terms might seem strict, Mr. Lloyd, don’t forget that Amberpeak Corporation has the reputation and resources to justify such demands.”

Andrew nodded. “One last question. What exactly does Amberpeak Corporation want Rhodes Corporation to produce? Are we talking about health supplements, therapeutic products, or disease treatments?”

Ruby shook her head, smiling as if Andrew’s question were naive. “None of those, Mr. Lloyd. The products you mentioned are common in the pharmaceutical market, and Amberpeak Corporation doesn’t lack any of them.

“We need Rhodes Corporation to manufacture a specialized pill. The specific ingredients and functions are detailed in the documents we provided earlier. If you have concerns, you can take a closer look at those.”