Shades of Grey - Part 10

“Fifteen percent if I do not broker the deal myself. Eighteen if I do. If I provide a contract that is used, I will expect between five and ten percent of that as well as a fee, depending on what it is.” She picked up one of the grapes in front of them and took a slow bite.

It was a steep but fair counter offer in truth. If keeping the lights on meant ensuring everyone got paid comparably, Zedd would accept the offer. After all, there wasn’t much in the way of leads as with was and what was brought to the table needed to be recognized accordingly.

Reaching over he picked up a couple of the grapes and ate them himself before responding. “We have a deal then. I’m sure we can get this all down onto paper easily enough.

“Two things,” Tiraa held up her hand to get him to pause. “I will be bringing one of my men with me, and you will also need to make room for one of my own shuttlecraft. You will be allowed use of it, and my man will serve on your crew for a minimal percentage.” She lowered her hand and leaned closer.

“It is important to understand though that ‘first officer’ or not, I work by your side, not beneath you. It is your ship, and you will have the final say, but do not presume to order me around like some peasant.”

“The thought never crossed my mind” Zedd replied. “I’ll make sure your man has quarters, he’ll have to share with someone. But your shuttle certainly will have space for it, I’ll make sure Cormus keeps it in top shape, if that is what you’d like of course. We’ll work side by side, as you say.” He stood up and grabbed a different decanter, hopefully something that was a little smoother. He poured a drink into both of their glasses. “Shall we drink to it then and seal the deal?”

Tiraa stood from her chair and moved over to him. As she took the drink from his hand, she also shifted her body into his personal space so close that he could feel the warmth of her skin. She smiled at him then, and tapped her cup against his.

“To a fruitful partnership.”

“To a fruitful partnership” Zedd replied, before taking a drink. Her warmth was enough to be inviting and make him want to share more. But he also knew that was likely the worst idea he could have, so he set it aside for the moment as best he could.

The Dutchman and her crew needed both Zedd and Tiraa, no matter what.

“Now then, you may enjoy yourself at my establishment. The bar is on the first level, games and holosuites on the second, the third is the restaurant, the fourth is a club.” She paused and smirked. “The fifth you will find women… or men… willing to entertain your whims, and if you would like to rest here for tonight, that can be arranged.” She motioned for her man to come over to escort Zedd out.

“Enjoy. I’ll arrive at your ship tomorrow.”

He gave a nod “Tomorrow it is then.” Zedd needed to unwind so he would be taking the woman up on her offer, and he’d make sure he spent as much time on each floor as possible, and enjoy any comfort for the night that he could.

END