The Before Short Story Series. Part 1 - стр. 27
‘Thank you. We are glad to see you and are glad to have the opportunity to discuss business. So you say you’ve been in London for some time now?’ Robert looked at the girl.
‘Not really, Robert,’ Heng replied, ‘we’ve arrived only a couple of days ago. But, as I mentioned, the agenda is very tight. Certainly you understand, our main task is to consider the risks and make…take the right decisions. Talking about politics, obviously, the right strategy would be some diversification, so to speak. Of course, for such an approach one need a certain level of resources and assets.’
‘I quite understand you, Heng. Betting on one horse…’
‘Okay, Robert. It is important that we are open with each other here, and can dot all the i’s and cross the t’s. May I ask you, Robert, what is your plan? The general line?’
‘That’s why we’re having this meeting. The plan is simple. Step one. In a year and a half, as an independent candidate, I will enter this symbol of legislative power. Step two. In the next cycle, I plan to enter another door with a well-defined street name and a house number.’
‘And in which capacity are you planning to take your second step, dear Robert?’
‘As the host of the house, Heng. You shouldn’t have given up the fish after all. They do it great here.’
Heng paused for a few seconds, assessing Robert.
‘You have a very clear strategy, Robert. But aren’t your plans too hasty?’
‘My plans have, as I expect, quite a tangible basis. Isn’t that right, Heng?’ Robert began eating with his fingers and somehow, the process seemed quite aesthetically pleasing.
The Chinese took a cup of tea and looked away in the direction of the Houses of Parliament.
‘Impressive, isn’t it?’ Robert asked.
‘Yes, the history of your country, Robert, certainly deserves a careful study,’ Heng replied. ‘You are aware of our goal. We think about our interests.’
‘Of course. As well as all the parties to this process. Finding the right balance is the subtlety.’
‘That’s right, Robert. And faith alone, as you may assume, is not enough to understand how the parties could interact.’
‘All right, Heng. I will briefly outline our expectations and our understanding of the value of the parties involved. First of all, I agree with you—the plan I mentioned does not really contain details, but obviously we understand in a quite tangible way which direction to take and how to proceed. My life story, professional practice clearly shows how we achieve results. And, of course, what results can be counted on. But may I assume that we wouldn’t have this discussion with you here were it not for your forecasts and models clearly demonstrating to us what we are talking with you about,’ the assistant nodded her head.