"Because eventually you'll understand that you're sitting on a valuable asset you don't have the resources to develop."
The words were spoken with unmistakable contempt.
The room became still.
The young woman looked at him.
Then she smiled.
It was a small, controlled smile.
"Thank you."
He blinked.
"For what?"
"For finally explaining how you see this business."
The developer frowned.
She continued.
"You believe I should surrender it because you can make more money from the property than I currently choose to."
He shrugged.
"That's economics."
"No. That's a preference."
She leaned forward.
"Economics can help us calculate value. It doesn't give you permission to decide what another owner must value."
The developer laughed sharply.
"You think you can hold out forever?"
The billionaire turned toward him.
"Enough."
The developer looked surprised.
"Sir—"
"I said enough."
The billionaire's voice had changed.
He was no longer trying to appear amused.
The room's power dynamics were shifting in ways he had not anticipated, and he understood that his development partner was making the situation worse with every sentence.
The owner remained seated.
"You're welcome to leave the dinner if you wish."
The developer straightened.
"Gladly."
"But all pending requests for our confidential business information must stop unless properly authorized."
He stared.
"And any disputed financial claims should be addressed through the appropriate representatives."
The developer looked toward the billionaire.
For a moment, he seemed to expect support.
None came.
He collected his phone and walked toward the door.
The general manager was waiting outside.
The developer brushed past him without speaking.
His departure left an uncomfortable silence.
Finally, the billionaire placed both hands on the table.
"I did not authorize anyone to threaten your restaurant."
The young woman looked at him.
"I haven't said you did."
He exhaled.
"But you suspect my company."
"I have concerns supported by documents."
The billionaire looked toward the financial adviser.
"Then those concerns will be reviewed."
The owner nodded.
"That would be appropriate."
She closed the portfolio.
"And until they're resolved, there will be no acquisition negotiations."
The billionaire stared.
"No negotiations?"
"No."
He leaned forward.
"You're making a mistake."
She met his eyes.
"Perhaps."