"I'm acquiring approximately twenty to thirty pieces per year across multiple periods and regions," Aria said. "I'd need authentication services for all of them, plus occasional consultations on potential acquisitions before I commit to purchases. I'd be willing to pay a retainer fee for priority access to your expertise."
Mora Lee was quiet for a long moment, and Aria could see her calculating risks and opportunities behind her professional mask.
"What kind of retainer fee are we discussing?" Mora Lee asked finally.
"Five hundred thousand euros annually," Aria said, and she watched Mora Lee's reaction carefully. "Paid quarterly, with additional fees for individual authentications beyond a certain threshold. I'm looking for someone I can trust completely, someone who understands discretion and can work within my timeline requirements."
Mora Lee's hand tightened on her pen again, and her eyes darted away from Aria's face for just a fraction of a second before returning.
