CEO in New York City

. My father had worked in maintenance for forty years and had maintained several Mayfair buildings. He'd also had several run-ins wit

managed to attract the clients and money I had. "Like it or not, he's got money and influence." I washed my hands in the kitchen sink. "So he gets what he wants." "Kid. You've got money and influence, too." I laughed, drying my hands on a towel before picking up an empty mug. "You're not wrong, but that's how the game

on my messy bed. Me: When? Jeannie: In a few months. Gina has an audition. Me: We'll have to meet and talk. Send me the dates. Jeannie: We'll do it! I love you! I laughed, hearing my ex-wife's cheerful voice in my head. Our marriage didn't last long, but while it did, it was some of the best years of my life. I sipped my coffee, enjoying a few moments of solitude before heading to the shower. Two hours later, I pulled into the parking lot of Mayfair Real Estate. Before I went in, I stopped to re

et and felt people's eyes on me as they watched me arrive at Bart Dulce's office. I was expected, so I imagine they were also trying to form an opinion of what I looked like. I smiled at those who managed to catch my eye, and I could see their relief that I wasn't some stiff-necked idiot who would put an X on their name because I had seen them talking. In the alcove across from Dulce's office, her assistant sat in front of several chairs. It was a small waiting area hidden from everyone else. She was focused on her work, and it took her a moment to notice and acknowledge me as I approached.

on open-ended so she wouldn't feel like I was cornering her. She let out a sharp but barely perceptible sigh and narrowed her eyes in a deep glare. Her teeth actually clenched as she forced a polite smile. I was taken aback by her sudden coolness. Sure, I understood that my arrival usually signaled trouble in a company, but at this point I saw no reason for hostility. However, she seemed actively irritated. I figured I'd find out why in due time. Maybe she was worried about her job. "I'll be happy to answer any questions you have, Mr. Michael

ers." She almost smiled. I smiled at that. "Let's just say no company would be in trouble if everyone was as good as they could be." She leaned forward, her eyes wide with mischief-or was that a flash of arrogance?-as if she were about to tell me a secret. "Or if the owner didn't have his head up his own ass." I was surprised and quite amused by her bold statement about Mayfa

n getting my mind off her assistant's intense gaze. "Actually, I asked Naomi to join us to tak