Folding For You

Chapter 35: Killian

As I sat in the corner of the café, the dim glow of streetlights filtering through the windows, my eyes scanned the room—not for its aesthetics but for the layout, the exits, and the subtle rhythm of people moving in and out.

The night air outside was cool, casting long shadows across the floor, while inside, the soft hum of conversation filled the space. It's instinctual now—assessing everything, even in the quiet of the night.

Derek sat beside me, the light from his tablet casting a faint glow on his face as he reviewed notes and projections for the meeting. I didn't need to go over them. I knew them already, backwards and forwards.

Preparation isn't just a step; it's a habit. Even in the stillness of the night, I'm constantly calculating, always ready.

James Barnett walked in, a new millionaire still carrying the energy of his first big win. His steps had a spring in them—confidence but also inexperience. I'd seen it before. The excitement of success can be dangerous if it closes your eyes to the actual game ahead.

As he approached, I stood, offering my hand. My grip was firm and deliberate, reminding him that this meeting wasn't just about his enthusiasm but about control—mine.

"James," I said, my voice low and measured. "Good to see you. I hear congratulations are in order."

He smiled, practically buzzing. "All thanks to your advice, Killian. I couldn't have done it without you."

I nodded, keeping my expression steady, almost indifferent. "You made the right calls. The tools were there, but you acted on them. That's why you're sitting here today."

Derek, consistently the smoother of the two of us, chimed in. "We're just getting started."

James leaned forward, eager, hungry. "That's exactly why I'm here. I want to get into real estate and expand my portfolio. With this new capital, I'm ready to take it to the next level."

I took a slow sip of my espresso, considering his words. Real estate—is solid and predictable but also a minefield for those who don't know what they're doing.

"What part of real estate are you looking at?" I asked, keeping my voice neutral, even though I already had a dozen strategies running through my head. "Commercial, residential, or something more specialised?"

He shrugged, clearly looking for direction. "Whatever grows my portfolio the fastest. I'm open to anything."

There it was—eagerness without precision. I leaned back slightly, eyes narrowing just enough to let him know this wasn't a game of quick wins.

"Growth is possible, but you need calculated risk. Real estate can give you returns, but only if you understand the markets—location, demand, and future trends. It's not just about buying property; it's about owning the right property."

Derek picked up the thread. "We've been tracking some emerging markets that could be exactly what you need. But it's a long-term play. You need to be patient and strategic."

James nodded, still riding the wave of his recent success. "I'm ready. I trust you to steer me right."

I leaned in, locking eyes with him, letting the weight of my words settle. "Good. Then, let's talk specifics. We'll build on your momentum, but remember—your first 10 million is just the beginning. The real work is making sure that momentum doesn't die out."

I watched as James's excitement tempered slightly, replaced with focus. That's what I wanted—a client who understands the stakes. This wasn't about his enthusiasm. This was about control, guiding him toward something sustainable and tangible. The game was just getting started, and I always play to win.