Page 26 of Disciplining Dana

“So, for us to provide the information our client has requested,” Kurt finished, “we need, as Ms. Aziz said, your help.”

“To do what, exactly?” Mr. Hawkins asked quietly.

“We need access into the mine to perform a walk-over survey,” Dana answered with determination. “All the way into the mine.”

“I see.” Mr. Hawkins steepled his fingers, gazing over the tips at the two of them. “I have to say, it’s a… it’s a very interesting proposal.” His tone was polite but guarded. “However, I’ll be honest with you folks, I’ve been into the mine beyond the gate. It’s been a few years, but… it isn’t safe back there. There’s been no need for us to sink money into the upkeep of those old tunnels, so there’s already a few places where some of the cribbing has failed, and I’m betting that’s only gotten worse in the years since I’ve been inside.”

“I assure you, Mr. Hawkins,” Dana stated firmly, “we’re aware of the risks going into these kinds of situations. We’ve done this before, and we’ll take every precaution to ensure our safety, I promise you.”

“Ms. Aziz, I’ve no doubt you would, but you have to understand, getting underwriting for a venture like this”—he made a sweeping gesture—“isn’t the easiest thing in the world to do. There aren’t many insurance companies out there that understand my business model, nor are willing to offer me coverage. Now, I mean neither of you any disrespect, because it’s pretty clear you’re both professionals, but I’m sure you’ll understand if I decline your request until I have a chance to speak with my lawyers.”

“I do understand your position, but we have a limited amount of time we’re going to be here, so time is of the essence.” Dana leaned forward, resting a hand on his desk. “We’d really appreciate your cooperation in letting us do a quick and simple investigation of the mine. Nothing more, I swear.”

The man narrowed his eyes and Kurt recognized the look. He’d used it himself on the same person Mr. Hawkins was now.

“Young lady, I truly understand where you’re coming from, but let me make two things clear. You aren’t the first folks to come here eager to poke around in our dirt. Be grateful you’ve managed to get this far. And the only reason for that is you remembered your manners and had the courtesy to ask.”

“I—”

“I’m not finished.” Derek waited until Dana’s mouth closed. “The second thing you can take to the bank is this: my answer’s still no. Not until I’ve had a chance to talk with my lawyers.”

Kurt stepped in. “Understood, sir. Do you know when that could be arranged?”

“Well, unfortunately Jared and Chloe—my legal counsel for Rawhide Ranch—aren’t here right now. They’re in Denver, handling Ranch business. I’ll reach out to them tonight, though, and as soon as I have word, I’ll let you know.”

“Mr. Hawkins, if there’s anything we could do to expedite the process…”

“I said no.” His voice was still polite, but it had definitely dropped a few degrees.

Dana put on her best smile. “Well, can’t blame a girl for trying.”

“Trust me, ma’am; I get that a lot around here. And as people learn”— he grinned wryly—“I’m not someone who can be pushed to change my mind quickly.”

Dana nodded, but the tension in her jaw was visible.

“We really do appreciate your consideration in this matter, Mr. Hawkins,” Kurt said, rising from his chair. “We look forward to hearing back from you at your earliest convenience.”

“Thank you so much, Mr. Hawkins,” Dana said convincingly, but Kurt knew better. She was irritated.

The man rose and shook both their hands again. A minute later, after a round of polite goodbyes, he and Dana were standing back in the lobby, staring out of the floor-to-ceiling windows at the beautiful landscape beyond.

“So,” Kurt said equitably, “I’d say that went well, wouldn’t you?”

Dana turned to him slowly.

Oh. Okay, so… no, Dana wasn’t just irritated. The look she shot him made that clear.

No, she was pissed.

CHAPTER 7

Dana

“You think”—she tried to choke back the growl but failed—“it went well?”

“Dana…”

“What?”

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