Page 20 of Emergence and Ascendance

"That's just business. The McKenzies took my offer."

"The McKenzies had already accepted an offer from CD Capital Holdings, which was mine, before your team pushed that crazy ass inflated bid." His tone was chill but I caught the edge underneath. Oh, he’s fucking pissed…

"That's interesting because their lawyer told me something completely different."

"Yeah, well, a handshake still means something in Crescent Falls."

"So do signed contracts, which is what I have." I glanced past him toward where my survey team was standing. "If you'll excuse me, I have people waiting."

When I tried to move around him, he shifted. He wasn't exactly blocking me but the shift was a silent demand that we weren't done and the move allowed me to catch his scent as he moved closer. His cologne smelled like cedar blended with citrus. His eyes were also checking me out in a way that definitely wasn't professional.

"Twenty minutes," he said in a low, sexy tone that temporarily paused my brain and the way he stared me down was proof that he knew the effect he had on me.

"Sorry, what?"

"Give me twenty minutes after you've checked out the property."

Now I was curious. "What for?"

"To discuss a business opportunity I feel you will appreciate."

The arrogance in his stance-body wide, hands submerged in his pockets and a ghost of a smile on that handsome face-had my mind screaming to say no. This man was trouble, but again, I was curious and let's face it. Who would turn down an opportunity to admire this man's assets in a personal setting? Damn sure not me. "I have lunch at one. You can have thirty minutes before that."

"Perfect. The Metropolitan bar. Noon. That is where you're staying, correct?"

The smugness in his expression had me second guessing spending time with Christian but I nodded then walked past him toward the property entrance. I could feel him watching as I walked away. Just before reaching the gate, I glanced back over my shoulder, catching him. However, it wasn't like he tried to hide that he was enjoying the view. Men like him were so damn predictable.

The property inspection went smoothly. My team was thorough and confirmed what I already knew. This land was worth every penny I offered the McKenzies. Exactly what I needed for my first solo project because when I pulled this off there was no way my father could deny my abilities.

Right at noon I walked into The Metropolitan and found Christian at a corner table which offered a view of the whole room. He was definitely a man who liked control.Noted. He stood when I neared the table.

"Mr. Devereaux."

"Christian, please. Thanks for making time, Ms. Whitney." He motioned to a chair after pulling it out for me and when I stepped around him, his cologne hit me again.

"Scotlyn." I settled into the spot across from him and the minute we were both seated a bartender came over.

"Mr. Devereaux, your usual, Black Ops?"

"Yeah, thanks, and for you?" Christian looked toward me.

"I'll have the same, neat."

He raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "Bourbon girl, huh?"

"When the situation calls for it, yes. I mostly do business with men. I've learned to adjust."

He nodded and the bartender left, returning immediately with our drinks. Christian raised his glass. "To productive conversations."

I paused for a second before touching my glass to his. "You're optimistic."

"I'm a man who gets what he wants."

My core tightened and I pressed my thighs together when I noticed the way his eyes moved over me.

Down girl, we’re not open for business.

His interest in me was too damn obvious, and surprisingly, also not unwelcomed. Christian and I had nine year age difference—and by default he was not the type I was typically was drawn to—but something about him aside from the tempting visual and his confidence was sexy.

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