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“See you tonight, Ms. St. James.”

“Can’t wait, Mr. Christiansen.”

Giving me a little wink, he then turns and dashes in the manual door, skipping the revolving door altogether and leaving me standing here like a schoolgirl with a new boyfriend.

Maybe I should keep my guard up and not let him so far into my heart. But judging by how I’m floating on top of the world, is it too late to save me now?

16

Nick

“I reviewedthe contract you sent to my hotel yesterday. Nothing stood out to me, and everything appears to be in order.” I turn over the last page of the hard copy in front of me and then lift my attention to the legal team of Manhattan Financial. “My family understands the need for a personal touch, but I’m still curious why you wanted to meet in person.”

Mrs. Singh, one of the three attorneys, rests her clasped hands on the table. Oh yes, I know that move, the technique you learn as a rookie lawyer to put the opposing team at ease and then go in for the kill. Mom’s instruction in meeting protocol and psychology certainly helps, too.

“This has been a family-owned company since the beginning. We could have gone public, but that’s not what our CEO wants.”

“Because it no longer supports having a personal hand in the day to day when it’s a commodity.”

She adds, “Precisely.”

“Rest assured. Christiansen Wealth Management takes pride in building relationships first and then bank accounts. This is our thirtieth year, and our reputation brings in the business, keeping our marketing budget on the slimmer side and allowing us to invest more into our employees. Our retention rate is as impressive as the names of our clientele.”

Another attorney, Garrett Stans, who told me to call him by his first name, unlike Mrs. Singh, shifts in the leather chair. “So why are you a good fit for our clients?”

I could rush an answer, but I think they prefer a more thoughtful response over one of arrogance. I search the windows to the city buildings that fill it from end to end. I never get used to how dense it is—gray and brown for as far as the eyes can see, especially on this floor. There’s no sky to be found.

It’s a rush being a part of a place where you can feel the beat of adrenaline. But I have to say, I prefer the ocean and the peace it brings. Turning back to them, I reply, “Because we care about them as much as their needs. Each client will be given a complimentary meeting in person or via Zoom to discuss their portfolio and their goals. But we want you to know that we’re not looking to let your people go. Quite the opposite. We want to keep them on if they’d like to work with us. Some will inevitably leave, but it won’t be because we’re closing the door on them.”

“I think John will be pleased with our report.” Garrett stands, and we shake hands while I stand as well. “Thank you for flying in. We wanted to meet with the potential buyer’s team to get a good feel for who they represent.”

“I appreciate it and look forward to hearing from you soon, hopefully with a positive outcome.”

Mrs. Singh adds, “And please keep this confidential. The last thing we want to do is make our clients or employees nervous.”

“I agree. This will remain strictly between the parties involved.”

“Thank you,” she says with a nod.

The other attorneys say their goodbyes, but Garrett walks with me back to reception. Talking to me like we’re friends, he says, “If I had to guess, I think selling to your family would be a good move for the bossman. I would be part of the transition team, and I think it would go smoothly based on what you’ve said.”

“That’s good to hear. My family is looking to get solid footing in New York, and I think the timing of Manhattan Financial selling couldn’t be more perfect.”

He looks around as if there are spies, then lowers his voice and says, “Selling the company isn’t common knowledge. Not even a hint of it is out there. Everyone involved is under an NDA. We started with feelers and then got solid interest. Our CEO has had some health issues and wants to retire. He was hoping his kids would take on the company. His son is eager but still has another year, and his daughter hasn’t shown interest. He’s now ready to make a move and enjoy his retirement instead of dying on the job.” He stops, seeming to bite his tongue. “I shouldn’t say that. He’s a great guy, really is, but you know the stress of a stockbroker. It wears on you.”

“Yeah, I hear the same about attorneys.”

It takes him a second to figure out I’m joking, but then he laughs. “Sure does.”

Post meeting, I’m left with a lot of information to share with Andrew and my dad. Seems the timing is right to up the offer to cut out the competition and get this deal closed.

But first, there’s another deal I want to close, one that specifically involves Natalie.

* * *

The lights aregolden and reflect against the mirrored wall full of bottles, giving the impression of a million stars lit up just for her. She deserves the stars, even in the middle of all these skyscrapers.

The band is paused as all eyes and ears are trained on the two women standing on the bar. Natalie has a bottle of champagne in her hands and a glittering tiara on her head with Tatum right next to her. I missed the speech, but I’m here for the finale.