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"Thank you, Mr. Devereaux." She managed to keep her tone controlled. "And you're right. Being responsive to community needs is very much a priority."

Fuck community. You'll only be responsive to me.

Zoree broke the tension between us by asking another question. "There are existing communities near the waterfront. How can you assure us that this development won't price out current residents? That tends to happen."

"Forty percent of the new development will be equal to or affordably matched with the existing community. The goal is to have something luxurious that pairs well with its surroundings. I will also ensure the commercial leases prioritize existing local businesses."

Fucking brilliant. I hadn't even considered that. Scotlyn was on her shit and I wanted to be on and in her.

"If you weren't aware, Ms. Whitney outbid me for the property."

All eyes were on me again and I felt the realization as to why I was here. Zoree glared at me then her eyes shifted to Scotlyn. That was the exact moment I knew she had their full and unrelenting support. I almost fucking laughed because they assumed I was trying to take advantage of Scotlyn. I wasn't and truthfully I couldn't because she knew her shit. "Her vision aligns with my own. It's not about imposing from the top down but more about…" My eyes locked on Scotlyn's again. "Supports from below to allow for natural submission and growth of the community."

Her throat tensed but that was the only sign that she was affected by my words.

"Agreed. Supporting the existing community to build upward is essential. Success is only guaranteed with alignment from the community by way of submission but only with the rightleadership from The Whitney Corporation to ensure all parties are satisfied."

Gotdamn.

She looked me right in my eyes and the challenge in hers had me locked the fuck in. She wanted me too. The signs were subtle — the way her breathing was heavier, more labored, the way her fingers curled into her palms and the dilation of her pupils —she was thinking about last night.

"Let me also add that I've personally experienced Ms. Whitney's attention to detail. She doesn't rush. She takes her time and allows for full exploration of all possibilities while handing over control when it suits the overall good of all involved. I fully support her handling this development and think it would be a great idea for you as well."

"Christian, don't nobody give a damn what you think in here," Samiya said, causing everyone around the table to laugh before she added, "Clearly, based on these double entendres going down between the two of you, there's some history there. I don't know what that's about nor do I care. What I will say is we'll support you if and only if you're not here to make a quick buck off the backs of those who live here. If you truly plan on building something that will both flourish and thrive with the support and consideration of our city, then we're on board." Samiya looked around the table and everyone nodded to agree.

"That is my plan."

"Then you have our support and we'll be at your disposal to assist with acclimating yourself into the community and with any developmental issues you may face. Some will be out of our reach but apparently you have Christian's support. So what we can't help with, he can," Zoree added.

"Thank you."

"Are there any more questions?"

There were a few more but they focused mostly on Scotlyn. By the time the meeting wrapped up, she looked professionally composed. She was also flustered from my delicate attempt to rattle her but Scotlyn held her own with thoughtful responses about community concerns and business progression. I was impressed.

As intoxicating and beautiful as she had been submitting to me last night, watching her in this setting-confident and unyielding-was equally attractive.

I moved closer while the other women caught up to make sure I could have a private moment alone with Scotlyn, invading her space to speak lowly while she gathered her things. "You were impressive. Almost as impressive as you were last night. I don't know which version of you I like better but both are sexy as fuck."

"You joining this meeting was completely inappropriate, Christian. Why the fuck are you here?"

"I had a vested interest in the property. I needed to be sure you would handle it properly, and based on last night, you and I have a mutually beneficial reason to ensure you receive the support you need to remain in Crescent Falls for the rest of your contract."

"I'm not agreeing to that damn contract. Especially not now."

"You are, because like Zoree stated, their support only extends so far. You need me, Scotlyn. But that's not why you're going to honor your commitment, is it?"

She narrowed her eyes and I moved closer.

"We're supposed to have lunch but I assume you're avoiding me because your assistant hasn't gotten back yet, so I'll meet you halfway. Dinner tonight. I'll send a car."

"I'm not having dinner with you, Christian."

"Fine, then let's discuss the way I made you cum and how once wasn't enough for either of us, right here, right now. I'msure that conversation will be very damn uncomfortable for you with an audience of your peers listening."

There was no way in hell I would expose either of us in front of these women but she didn't know that, which was evident by the way she narrowed her eyes and gritted, "Fine. Dinner tonight."

"Enjoy the rest of your day, Angel."