Page 55 of Heat & Deceit
“I can’t promise that.”
“You’re a real piece of work, you know that?”
AKA, I’m an asshole.
So I’ve been told.
“Happy to be of service, Jenny.”
“It’s Jennifer,” she growls.
“Who’s the omega this time?”
“Caroline Fritz. Daughter of a media mogul.” She shakes her head and blows out a breath. “Listen, just behave tonight. That’s all I’m asking.”
Quite frankly, that’s asking a lot, considering I don’t have much choice in the matter. While I don’t give a shit if I’m allowed to work with an agency, I can’t do that to my pack.
“Fine,” I snap, shoving out of the chair and storming out of the building.
One date. One dinner full of surface-level chatter. One more. That’s it.
Then, I can focus all of my attention on Carmine.
* * *
JAVI
I study the report in front of me, noting the price of shares. It’s steep, but not out of reach. The real question is: when is the right time to make my move? I glance up as Richard, an alpha with salt-and-pepper hair, sweeps into the room.
“Thank you for coming,” I say, standing and gesturing to one of the seats at the conference table.
“Is this the report?” He picks up a copy of the packet I’m holding, flipping through it. Dick isn’t much for easing into things; he prefers things quick and precise.
I can’t help but wonder if he’s the same way with his mate. While she may not be excited by his brusque personality, today it suits my needs. He scoffs when he reaches page three. His gaze roves over the numbers, and I can practically see him calculating what moves would be needed.
Normally, Rome would advise me on these types of things. He’s the best at what he does. But this play is a surprise for him. Not so long ago, he helped me handle my family with swift and brutal financial ruin. It’s time I repay him the favor.
“This is almost too easy,” Dick says with a wicked grin.
“I thought the same thing.” I shrug and push the papers aside. “Can you check into some of this for me, make sure everyone is properly motivated to sell?”
Dick narrows his eyes. “I’m not cheap.”
“Never said you were. I brought you here because you’re the best, Dick,” I say, flattering him.
He studies the report again, mulling over the details for a few minutes. I sit, unbothered, and let him work through his process. He’ll say yes. Dick has worked more than a few investment deals for us, and occasionally he coordinates hostile takeovers. My pack is in the business of owning profitable businesses that don’t need our hands on supervision, and Dick loves to help. Like I said, he always says yes. Plus, he’ll get twenty percent of the first year’s earnings. Even with my plans, that’s going to be a hefty chunk of change.
With a sigh, Dick sits back and taps his finger on the paper. “Give me four weeks.”
“You have three.”
“Fuck you.”
I arch an eyebrow. “That’s the deal.”
This move has been years in the making. I should have done it sooner. Three weeks is plenty of time to ensure the sales are solid. Then, it’ll be time to show Rome’s parents the consequences of hiking their prices so high, most low packs can’t afford them.
“Okay. Three.” Dick gets up and leaves.
