Donald had been scrutinizing the proceedings with the precision of a hawk, his sharp gaze never wavering.
Finally, he broke the silence. "The Blackridge oil fields," he stated, "You want our rail networks in exchange for 10 billion barrels."
Edward nodded, his confidence unwavering. "Not just access, full cargo rights. Osborn freight takes priority, no delays, no tariffs."
Rajiv's fingers drummed thoughtfully on his antique pocket watch. "That's worth more than oil."
"Then make a counteroffer," Edward smirked, his strategic mind already racing ahead.
Donald exhaled slowly, his tone somber. "Fifty percent of the oil revenue. In perpetuity."
Edward laughed dismissively. "Try again."
A standoff ensued, the tension thick enough to cut. Finally, Donald relented. "Twenty percent. And we retain mineral rights on any new discoveries along the rail routes."
