However, this ti John couldn’t hesitate anymore. "Maybe the System rebate has occurred after I had an investnt in the Bloodlust Gangsters Organisation (BGO)..."
It was a text from Grace: "Co urgent at the store, the plot behind the store is about to be sold."
John’s heart raced as he quickly dialled Tom, the plots and house agent seller. "Tom, it’s John. What’s going on with the plot behind my store?"
"Hey John, it’s Rashid, Rohit’s son. He’s trying to buy it. They’re finalising the negotiations as we speak," Tom replied.
John’s grip tightened on his phone. "I need more details. Where are they at in the negotiation? I am the one who was planning to purchase it and expand my business."
"They’re at the stage of negotiating the price. Rashid wants to buy it on hire purchase with a deposit, but the landlord is reluctant to sign off on it," Tom explained.
"Alright, Tom. I’ll be there shortly." John hung up the call, grabbed his motorcycle keys, and was ready for Huruma Street.
Roy who was taking his lab and the fountain foyer, his attention captured by his boss, hurried. "Hey there, what’s up? You seem restless Mr. John. Maybe sothing’s wrong sowhere?
John without hesitation turned to Roy, "I will be back soon. It’s just an ergency case sowhere, let handle it and we will talk later."
"Okay Mr. John...the riding master...Haah" Roy replied, smiling on how John brought the motorcycle to life, accelerating and taking a spin at the parking lot before heading to the gateway. Indeed it was a marvellous crazy skill to watch.
As John sped through the streets, the city buzzed with activity. Vendors called out their wares, children played by the roadside, and the aroma of street food filled the air. The urgency of the situation made him more aware of the vibrant life around him.
Upon arriving at the store, John found Grace inside, diligently cleaning. She looked up as he entered, a mixture of relief and concern on her face.
"John, thank goodness you’re here. The plot’s about to be sold to Rashid, I don’t know if he is your relative, you look alike sohow." Grace said, her voice tinged with worry.
John’s eyes furrowed and his voice raised, "? Maybe you are dreaming. I can’t resemble him. Don’t ever ntion that to , right..!"
After John took a deep breath, he turned to Grace, "Get this clear, we need to think fast. We can’t let Rashid get his hands on that plot," John said, pacing the floor. "Do you have any ideas on how we can sabotage his plans?"
Grace paused, tapping her chin thoughtfully. "Well, we could spread a rumour that there’s a zoning issue with the plot. If Rashid thinks he can’t build what he wants there, he might back off."
John grinned. "That’s a good start. What else? Taking in mind that this is exactly a foreseen war Rashid and I. How did he exactly find this place? Nah.. This is a running plan, but I am not worried at all. I stand tall and all has to happen."
"We could also offer a better deal to the landlord directly," Grace suggested. "Or, if we can find a way to make Rashid think the plot isn’t as valuable as it seems, he might lose interest."
John nodded, considering their options. "I like the idea of making the plot seem less valuable. Maybe we can plant so information that there’s a legal dispute over the land?"
Grace’s eyes lit up. "Exactly. If we can make Rashid think it’s more trouble than it’s worth, he’ll look elsewhere."
John’s phone buzzed again. It was Tom. He stepped outside to take the call.
"Tom, what’s the asking price for the plot?" John inquired.
"The plot is 200 ft by 200 ft. Rashid wants it on hire purchase with a deposit, but the landlord isn’t keen on that arrangent. The asking price is $500,000,000," Tom revealed.
John whistled. "That’s a steep price. Can you arrange for to et the landlord after Rashid?"
"Sure thing, John. I’ll set it up. Rashid and his brother Robin are just leaving now," Tom said.
As John hung up, he saw Rashid and Robin pulling away in their sleek rcedes C300. They slowed down as they passed him, rolling down the window to sneer.
"Better luck next ti, John. This plot is not as good as ours," Rashid taunted, a smug grin on his face.
Robin chid in, "Yeah, John. Maybe you should stick to running your little store. You ran away from us, you won’t succeed for sure we are after you..."
John stood on the veranda of his store, nodding his head as they drove away. "We’ll see about that," he muttered under his breath.
A few monts later, Tom called John again. "John, the landlord is ready to et you. He’s waiting by the huge oak tree at the end of the plot. Just get out and you will see us."
John made his way to the oak tree, where he saw Tom standing with an elderly man. Tom introduced him. "John, this is Smith, the landlord."
Smith extended his hand with a warm smile. "Nice to et you, John. I was the forr landlord of the land your current store is on."
John shook his hand. "Pleasure to et you, Mr. Smith. Thank you for seeing on such short notice."
Smith chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "Not a problem at all. I like to keep busy, even at my age."
They walked over to a bench under the tree and sat down. Smith leaned back, looking at the plot. "You know, even the one who purchased the plot your store is on, George, still owes a little balance. But I won’t ask for it; I’m sure even George forgot now that he sold it to you."
John laughed. "Well, I promise you won’t have any balance issues with in case our deal goes through successfully."
Smith patted John’s shoulder. "I can see you’re a determined young man. Reminds of myself back in the day."
Tom interjected, "John is very committed to his business. He’s done wonders with the store. The store was dead, but he ca up and it has shown potential initially."
Smith nodded approvingly. "I heard. You’re making quite a na for yourself, John. So, what brings you here today?"
John took a deep breath. "I’m interested in buying the plot behind my store. I understand Rashid is also interested, but I believe I can offer you a better deal."
Smith raised an eyebrow. "Is that so? Rashid offered to hire with a deposit, but I’m not comfortable with that arrangent."
John leaned in. "I can pay in full, no hire purchase. I believe the plot has no conflicts because of its high demand, and I’m prepared to et the price."
Smith’s eyes widened in surprise and admiration. "That’s quite an offer. You must really want this plot."
John nodded. "It’s crucial for my business expansion. Plus, I’d like to keep good relations with you and ensure the land is used well."
Smith smiled broadly. "I like your spirit, John. You’re a young master who knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to go after it."
They continued their conversation, sharing jokes and stories. Smith was a jovial man, quick with a laugh and a story.
"You know," Smith said, chuckling, "the last ti soone tried to lowball on a plot, I told them I’d rather keep it as a grazing field for goats than sell it to them. They didn’t find it as funny as I did."
John laughed. "I bet they didn’t. But it’s good to see you’re still sharp and have a sense of humour."
Smith nodded, his eyes twinkling. "It’s important to stay young at heart, no matter your age. And from what I see, you’re well on your way to achieving great things, John."
They stood up, shaking hands firmly. "I’ll arrange the paperwork, and we can finalise the deal soon so that you get we exchange the title deed," Smith said.
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