To The Rude Guy in Apartment Five - J. S. Cooper Page 0,48
the air, and my stomach rumbled.
“So, the Cool Credit app is unique because it’s all-encompassing. We provide services and for everyone, whether you’re starting out as a youngster with no credit, or you’re a college grad that’s gotten themselves into credit card debt, or if you're in your thirties and have bad credit and aren’t sure what to do next. We also recommend credit cards to consumers that best fit their income levels and spending habits.”
“Doesn’t that points guy do that?”
“He does, but he actually gets kickbacks from the credit cards. He also recommends cards broadly. We recommend cards based on how much you make and spend and ensure you’re not overspending. Like, he recommends a card with a $550 annual fee to everyone. Someone earning $30,000 a year shouldn’t get a card like that.” I started getting heated. “They won’t even get the benefits of the card because it’s unlikely they’re spending enough or traveling enough, either.”
“So you’re an ethically responsible credit company?”
“Yes.” I nodded. “I like that. We’re about people before profits.”
“So how does your company make money? Are you free?”
“The app will initially be free,” I nodded. “I think Tate said it will eventually become subscription-based.”
“And you think that’s a good idea?” He cocked his head to the side as he flipped the steaks. “Don’t you think more the app would get more subscribers if it were free and the company had ads and took referral fees from the banks?”
“No.” I shook my head. “How can the consumer trust that the banks aren’t just paying to be promoted then? That defeats the purpose.” I stood up and walked into the kitchen. “Where do you keep your plates and cutlery? Let me help you set the table.”
“In that cupboard and drawer.” He nodded behind him and I walked to the cupboard he’d indicated. “Thanks,” he said as I took out two white plates and proceeded to take them to the table.
“No worries.” I walked back and opened the drawer and took out some knives and forks. “What name do you prefer, Cool Credit or the 800 Club?”
“Sorry, what?”
“For the name of the app. Do you like Cool Credit or the 800 Club more? Jane had an idea for a new name.”
“Hmmm.” He placed the steaks on a plate and carried it to the table. “Did she tell Tate her idea?”
“I guess so.” I nodded as I watched him grabbing two bowls. “Hey, how did you know his name?”
“Whose name?”
“Tate’s.”
Jagger blinked. “You must have told me.”
“I did?” I tried to remember when I’d mentioned Tate’s name.
“Yeah, maybe when I was at lunch with you and Jane.”
“Oh, okay, yeah.” I nodded. “Most probably. I think Jane has the hots for him, actually.”
“She has the hots for that tightass?”
“Huh?” I blinked at his words.
“Isn’t that what Jane said? When she was complaining about him?”
“Oh, I guess so. I can’t really remember.”
“But to answer your question, 800 Club sounds good. I like it.” He nodded. “That would mean new trademarks, copyrights, and patents though. That’s a lot of money.”
“Yeah, but better now than after the app launches.”
“True.” He looked thoughtful as he placed the potatoes and asparagus on the table. “Grub’s up, time to eat.”
“It looks and smells delicious.” I sat back down, grabbed my glass, and took another sip of wine as he took my plate and served me. “Thank you,” I said as he placed the plate down in front of me.
“You’re welcome.” He beamed at me, and I felt myself warming at his smile. “I’m just glad that you’re here.”
“Well, you know …” I cut into my steak and took a bite. The meat melted in my mouth and I eagerly took another bite. “This is so good.”
“Glad you like it.”
“I do, I really do.” And I proceeded to polish off the rest of the meal in under ten minutes.
“Thanks, Jagger, this has been so helpful,” I said as I packed up my notes. “I finally have a great idea for my article and the videos, and my belly is satisfied as well.” I rubbed my stomach as I stood up. “I should be going now.”
“Okay.”
Jagger stood up as well, and I tried to ignore a twinge of disappointment. Didn’t he want me to stay? He hadn’t tried to make a move on me all evening. Was he over me already?
“I hope you have a good night,” he said as he walked with me down the corridor. “Dinner was fun. We should do it again soon.”
“Yes. For sure.” We