“The western roof supports.”
“The engineer is inspecting them.”
“And if they require replacement?”
“We'll revise the estimate.”
Graham gave a humorless laugh.
“Nicholas, this is precisely the problem. Every time the figures change, you give the project another chance.”
“That's what due diligence is for.”
“No. Due diligence is for determining whether a project works. Not inventing reasons it might.”
Nicholas leaned back.
“Your recommendation?”
“Proceed with the redevelopment option.”
“The demolition plans aren't final.”
“They can be.”
Nicholas looked at him.
“Graham, I haven't approved demolition.”
“Your father has.”
The words landed heavily.
Nicholas slowly straightened.
“What?”
Graham placed a document upon the desk.
It was a preliminary authorization from Walter Sterling to proceed with the next stage of site clearance, subject to the necessary permits and the board's approval.
Nicholas read it.
Then looked up.
“When did he sign this?”
“Yesterday.”
“Without speaking to me?”
“He remains chairman.”
Nicholas felt anger rise.
“I'm president of the company.”
“And your father owns the controlling interest.”
A cold silence settled over the office.
Graham continued.
“Walter believes the restoration proposal is becoming a distraction. Frankly, so do I.”
Nicholas closed the file.
“Then I suggest you prepare to be disappointed.”
Graham looked at him.
“Nicholas.”
“What?”
“I'm going to ask you something, and I expect an honest answer.”
Nicholas waited.
“Is this about the building, or is it about Margaret Bennett?”
His expression hardened.
“Be careful.”
Graham did not retreat.
“You've been photographed with her. You've been seen having dinner with her. Half the office knows she's been here after hours.”
“Her work has been conducted transparently.”
“Then stop creating the appearance that her proposal is receiving special treatment.”
Nicholas stared at him.
Graham leaned forward.
“The board is responsible for a substantial investment. If you want them to consider the Starlight restoration, the figures must stand on their own.”
Nicholas remained silent.
For all Graham's hostility, there was a point buried beneath the accusation.
Maggie's proposal deserved a fair examination.
And that examination would become impossible if everyone believed Nicholas had already chosen its outcome because he was falling in love with her.
Finally, he said, “You're right about one thing.”
Graham raised an eyebrow.
“Which?”
“The decision must be independent.”
He reached for the telephone.
“Frances, ask legal to prepare a formal review procedure for the Starlight proposal.”
Graham watched.
Nicholas continued.
“All competing options will be evaluated under the same criteria. I won't vote on the selection.”
Graham looked surprised.
Nicholas hung up.
“Does that satisfy you?”
“For the moment.”
“Good.”
Graham gathered his file.
At the door, he paused.
“One more thing.”
Nicholas looked up.
“Your father wants to see you tonight.”
Nicholas sighed.