The Unlucky Turn by Mark Twain 20
Leilani had given him a huge commission last time. So, very quickly, the rookie sent Leilani the contact information.
Leilani dialed the number. Once connected, she stated her requirements: Street-facing, convenient transportation, area no less than 1,000 square feet, clear title, ready for immediate occupancy..
The agent introduced by the rookie quickly sent over several listings that met her criteria. Leilani picked a shop located in the city center and arranged a viewing for the afternoon.
She checked the map. The shop’s location was excellent, right opposite a subway entrance with high foot traffic. There were also several high-end residential communities nearby, ensuring a stable potential client base.
That afternoon, Leilani took a nap and then went out to see the property.
The agent was a man in his early thirties wearing gold-rimmed glasses. He always smiled when he spoke. Seeing Leilani’s simple, plain clothes, he showed no slight, his attitude very enthusiastic.
“Ms. Sloan, you’re in luck! A shop just listed yesterday is perfect for a clinic. Great location, reasonable price!”
Leilani followed him to a quiet street amidst the bustle of the city center. Trees lined both sides providing shade; there weren’t many pedestrians, but it wasn’t deserted either.
“This is it.” The agent, Colin, stopped in front of a two-story building and took out a key to open the door. “The first floor can be the consultation room, the second floor can be converted into a rest area or pharmacy, and there’s a small courtyard in the back with great lighting!”
Leilani went in and looked around, nodding slightly. The walls were an elegant off-white, the wooden floors were well-maintained, and there were medicine cabinets, examination beds, and an acupuncture area all ready. There was even a small independent pharmacy room. The renovation was a bit old, but the layout was logical and spacious. It could be used with minor modifications.
Most importantly, it wasn’t far from Celestial Heights. Transportation was convenient, yet it wouldn’t be too noisy.
“How much?” she asked directly.
Colin rubbed his hands. “The landlord is asking 3.5 million, but we can negotiate…”
“Can we sign now?” she asked bluntly.
Colin froze, then was overjoyed. “Of course! I’ll contact the representative from the Sherwood family right away to talk to you!”
Half an hour later, the shop door was pushed open, and a man walked in.
“Colin, who is the buyer?” The man’s voice was clear, carrying a hint of arrogance.
Leilani turned slowly. Their eyes met, and the man’s pupils suddenly constricted. “Leilani?”
The man speaking was Milford Sherwood. He wore a dark blue suit, his features distinct and
handsome, but compared to their student days, he had gained a bit more maturity and sharpness.
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He stared at Leilani, his expression changing instantly. “Why are you here?”
Leilani hadn’t expected to meet him here either. she frowned slightly but quickly regained her
composure.
Colin, unaware of the situation, quickly introduced them. “Mr. Sherwood, this is Ms. Sloan, who is interested in buying the shop! Ms. Sloan, this is the landlord, Mr. Sherwood!”
Colin intended to ease the atmosphere to facilitate the signing. However, Milford didn’t appreciate it. He sneered. “Colin, please step outside for a moment.”
Colin paused. “Huh? But…”
“Get out.”
Milford’s tone allowed no argument. Colin had to awkwardly retreat from the shop, closing the door
behind him.
Only the two of them remained in the room. After a few seconds of silence, Milford spoke first. The look he gave her was filled with bone-deep hatred, and his voice carried suppressed anger. “Leilani, you’re out of prison?”
When did she get out? Why hadn’t anyone from the Sloan family notified him?
Leilani gave a faint “Mmh” and walked straight to the window to continue checking the lighting, as if the person in front of her didn’t exist.
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