Page 98 of Positively Pricked
I almost didn't know what to say. "Seriously?"
For weeks, I'd been fielding countless requests for in-studio interviews, mostly from nationally syndicated shows, based out of New York. Apparently, Zane was in hot demand – from morning shows, business channels, and even a slew of entertainment programs.
After all, he was the hot, new thing – an unknown entity, a human wrecking ball, and yes, a billionaire bachelor with a thing for supermodels.
Whowouldn’twant to interview him?
He was fascinating. And maddening. And surprisingly successful, in spite of his annoying tendency to piss people off.
By now, I knew a lot more about the Bennington corporate structure. Technically, it was a publically traded corporation, but Zane was the primary shareholder, which meant that he controlled practically everything.
When he'd taken control of the company after the death of his grandfather, stock prices had plummeted, leaving many to wonder how low the value would go.
But lately, things had been on a definite upswing as the company exceeded projected earnings and upped its guidance for the next quarter.
Wasthatthe reason for Zane's sudden announcement?
Trying to make sense of it, I said, "So you've changed your mind? Is that what you're saying?"
"More or less."
Based on his earlier refusals, I almost couldn't imagine. "So youwantto do those interviews?"
"Want?" He shook his head. "No."
I waited for him to elaborate.
He didn't.
I tried again. "But you're going to do them, anyway?"
"Apparently."
"But why?" I asked.
"I've got my reasons."
"Is it because things are going so well? With the company, I mean?"
"No," he said. "It's because I've got other business in New York, and it's too late to cancel."
I still wasn't following. "Cancel what?"
"Other business," he repeated, "just like I said."
Well, that was informative.
Still, I knew better than to push my luck. "Okay," I said. "So when are we going?"
Again, he looked to the window. "Tonight."
My jaw almost hit the floor. "Tonight? Why so sudden?"
He was still looking away. "Because things happen."
Talk about a non-answer."But I’m not even packed."
"If you need help, I'll send someone."
