Page 25 of One Night Together

“We can review any of these points if you like,” Leo said, glancing at Ben for reassurance.

Ben gave a quick nod.

“I’m impressed. You understand my property and my vision for the Triton. And you can also stay within my budget.” Stavros leaned back in his chair. “As expected, I’ve received the bid from Argo Construction.” Stavros gave no hint as to whether Nikos’s bid was higher or lower than Leo’s. He turned to Leo. “Sutton Properties has also contacted me. I turned down their request for a bid, but they’ve been relentless. I’ve agreed to talk to them.”

What? Leo caught Ben’s surprised expression. They had to get this job. They’d gathered evidence against Malcolm, but Leo needed to boost his credibility as a builder for the board meeting. His disappointment shifted to determination. Leo wasn’t going to back down, but he wanted to know why Stavros would agree to talk to Malcolm after all the critical remarks he’d made about the Kronos Hotel.

“I see,” he said, trying to keep his anger under control. “May I ask why you’ve agreed to consider them?”

Stavros grinned. “Because I like competition.”

Shit. Costa Development didn’t have the resources to enter a bidding war with Malcolm. Taking a deep breath, he asked, “I thought you were against what they did with the Kronos Hotel?”

“I am against it.” Stavros got to his feet, signaling their meeting was coming to an end. “Relax, I like your ideas, but I need to explore all my options.” Stavros shook Ben’s hand.

Stavros liked their ideas, and that offered a glimmer of hope. In the end, their ideas and ability to stay within budget might win them the contract. Leo shook Stavros’s hand. “Thank you for your time and for considering our proposal.”

“You’re welcome. I’ll be in touch soon.” He nodded to both of them.

Leo and Ben left the office.

“What happened in there?” Ben asked as soon as they got outside. “Argo is tough enough competition, but going up against Malcolm too? I don’t know how we’re going to do it.”

“Because we’re creative and cheap.” He slapped Ben on the back, his confidence returning. “There’s nothing else we can do but wait and see.”

Ben slumped against the wall outside the office. “I’ve got to be honest. I thought this would be easier. The stress might kill me before I turn thirty-five.”

“Let’s get some lunch and review the strong points of our proposal. We might need to present a counteroffer, and I want to be prepared.”

Entering the lobby, his thoughts turned to his brunette beauty he left in her bed.

He turned to Ben. “Would you mind getting the car? I’ve got something I have to take care of. I’ll be right there.”

“Why do I always feel like your bloody driver?” Ben asked in mock disdain.

“Because you’ve been spoiled your whole life. It’s good for you.”

Ben let out a huge laugh and left.

Leo approached the concierge desk.

“Can I help you, sir?” the concierge asked.

“Yes. I have a few requests, and I hope you can help me out.”

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