Page 57 of Loss and Damages
I nod and stand, my heart racing.
The great Raphael Milano walks to my desk, holds out his hand, and grips mine with all the respect he’s capable of giving anyone.
My throat tightens.
I don’t need anyone’s approval but my father’s.
“Well done.”
“Thank you.”
“We’ll celebrate tonight.”
His tone brooks no argument, and I nod again, despite losing my taste for what his version of celebration entails. I’m tired of fucking nameless women but I’ll go and let him slap me on the back and buy the club rounds to brag about my success.
My executive assistant hurries into my office. “Turn on the news. You’ll want to see this.”
I click on the large TV fastened to the wall in front of my desk.
The camera is focused on Mayor Wilkins standing behind a podium in City Hall’s lobby. His face is red and sweat glistens on his temples. He just started a press conference, but we missed the first question asked and he’s in the middle of answering it.
“—1100 block. We envision a bright future for St. Charlotte, and Milano Management and Development will be a big part of it.”
“But what about the families living in the buildings?” a reporter asks.
Wilkins swallows. “Milano Management and Development does have plans for that property, but unfortunately, those plans do not include keeping the rent-controlled apartments intact. They’re purchasing property surrounding the 1100 block and plan to improve the entire area. As for the families, I’ve been assured proper notice will be given that will allow them adequate time to find new housing.”
The group of reporters protests, and they shout questions at Wilkins, their voices overlapping creating an undistinguishable cacophony of noise.
My father looks at me. “Did you know about this?”
“If I had, I’d be there.”
“How does this figure into your plan to run for re-election next year?” one reporter shouts above the rest.
“As you can imagine,” Wilkins starts, quieting the group, “this may create some conflict during a future campaign, and my team and I will have to decide if running will yield favorable results. I understand not everyone supported the sale, but we must look toward the future and consider the well-being of the city as a whole, rather than just one block. I want what’s best for this city, as I’m sure you all do.”
“Is Dominic Milano paying you to give him your cooperation?” one brave reporter asks.
“I don’t accept bribes,” Wilkins lies calmly. “As St. Charlotte’s mayor, I weigh every decision and choose based on what I think will be the most favorable outcome. That’s it.”
“Is Gilbert Pitts receiving a kickback from Milano Management and Development?”
“I can’t speak for Gilbert Pitts. The 1100 block has been in his family for over a hundred years and he felt it was time to shift his focus. When Mr. Milano presented the offer, Mr. Pitts discussed it with me, of course, and he made the best decision for him and his family.”
“Why isn’t he here speaking with you today?”
Using a bright white handkerchief, Wilkins wipes the sweat off his forehead. “He and his family are on an extended vacation as the property is no longer under his supervision. He’s asked that starting today, any requests, maintenance or otherwise, be directed to Milano Management and Development. Tenant issues are now their concern.”
“Is that your doing?” my father asks.
“Possibly.”
He scoffs, but it’s not disgust. It’s pride.
We watch the rest of the press conference, Wilkins toeing the line, trying to appease everyone and doing a piss-poor job of it.When his patience dries up, he wishes everyone a good day and walks off camera. The second he does, my cell phone rings and I accept the call.
“Happy now?” Wilkins asks, but disconnects, not giving me a chance to respond.
