Page 2 of Clock Strikes Paradise

“Dubois and Rhodes are offering strong numbers, but I need them hungry and excited.” I leaned forward, tenting my fingers. “That’s why I’m bringing them both down to Calypso Key Resort. At the same time. A little tropical hospitality might stoke some competition between them, and I’ll accept their final offers there.”

A glimmer of excitement flickered through me at returning to the Florida Keys resort. It had been Nate’s and my favorite childhood vacation spot, though I hadn’t been back in years. I leaned back against the plush back of my armchair. “Elise, you’re vital for keeping everything on schedule and running smoothly behind the scenes. Ensure you’re ready to go first thing in the morning.”

As much as I saw Elise as merely a cog in my business machine, I couldn’t deny her competence. I suspected the resort trip would tax even her unflappable capability. Her eyes widened at my announcement and her fingers froze above the tablet. Then she nodded briskly before sending Bart a long side-eye. “Of course, sir.”

I raised my gaze to stare at the city lights again. As cutthroat as I was, part of me was sad to sell the business my brother and I had built. But Podium was ripe for selling and very enticing to the two buyers. The Keys resort getaway symbolized me revisiting my past one last time before moving on for good.

However, I would not be made a fool. I buried any sentimentality, turning back to Elise and Bart. “I expect nothing but the best from both of you.” My voice was sharp. “I’ve worked too damn hard to build this company. Don’t screw this up.”

Elise met my eyes unflinchingly. “Certainly, Mr. Harmon. I’ll make sure everything goes perfectly.”

Her calm poise balanced my intensity, and I was glad she was coordinating this trip. “Elise, call my pilot to secure the jet. Wheels up at eight a.m. tomorrow. Be at Teterboro Airport by seven forty-five.” I turned to face my assistant fully. “I’m trusting you with the critical job of liaising between the resort staff and bidders. You’ll join all our meetings and meals too. I expect you to be close by the entire time. Understood?”

Again, Elise’s eyes briefly widened, but she quickly nodded. In three years as my assistant, she had almost never accompanied me on a business trip. But for this, I needed her organizational skills and attention to detail. She was a tool in my success, one I aimed to utilize to the fullest. “Of course. I’ll get the jet scheduled immediately.”

“Good. That will be all.”

Elise stood and marched out of the room, her heels clicking on the marble floor. This trip would serve its purpose, an optimal backdrop for stimulating the bidders’ competitiveness. I ignored the nostalgic pang the thought of Calypso Key provoked.

Sentiment was for fools.

I would orchestrate the perfect business arrangement, recharge my mind while scuba diving in the clear Caribbean Sea, then walk away even richer and more successful. Nothing would distract me from my goal. Not even the beautiful island paradise from my past. After all, other than a few exceptions, this trip was about business, not pleasure.

With everything in order, Bart and I discussed a few final points before I dismissed him. Alone again, I stared at the two offers, determination pulsing through my veins.

I stepped into my sleek,modern Manhattan penthouse, the wall of windows showcasing the glittering cityscape. Crossing the open-concept living space, I headed into my bedroom and straight for the walk-in closet to pack.

I selected each item with care—several designer suits, a pair of Italian leather shoes, and a custom-tailored tuxedo, sure. But I also packed polo shirts, cargo shorts, swim trunks, and sport sandals. Mostly business, yes. But my brother had insisted I relax and enjoy myself at least a little.

As I set the suitcase by the door, my cell rang with Nate’s face flashing on my home screen. My brother had been through a rough patch, but he came out of it stronger and with renewed purpose thanks to his new girlfriend, Camille Sullivan. Over the past few months, he’d turned his life around, forging ahead with a new career.

I tapped the button to answer. “Hey, little brother. What’s up?”

“Oh, not much. You know, the biggest holiday of the year? How’s everything going with the trip?”

I refused to rise to his Christmas jab. “Couldn’t bebetter. The jet’s booked for tomorrow morning. You and Camille still planning to fly down?”

“Yeah, we’ll be there before the big event. Don’t worry. We’ve got a hockey camp starting tomorrow for Skate to Success, but it’s only for two days. Thanks for setting everything up. I know you’ve got a lot on your plate.”

“Of course. That’s what I do.”

“Yeah, I know. I’m looking forward to seeing Calypso Key again.” His voice took on a dreamy tone, and I smiled. Nate and Camille had vetted the resort several months ago to ensure it would be the perfect setting for our gala. They had fallen in love in the process.

“So am I,” I said as I poured a glass of single malt from the beverage station in a corner of my sitting area. “And I’m taking your advice and plan to mix a little pleasure in with my business.”

“Oh?” His voice took on a speculative tone. “Looking to have a vacation fling?”

“Absolutely not,” I said sharply. “Female distraction is the last thing I need right now. I was talking about doing some diving and sightseeing.” I tried not to think about the Czech supermodel I’d broken up with last summer, after months of miserable dating.

“I can vouch for both. And I’m glad to hear it. You need to quit working yourself to death.”

“In a few more days, it’ll all be worth it,” I replied quietly. “I’ll see you in Florida.”

After the call ended, I stared at the taillights of cars far below and shook my glass, listening to the light music of ice cubes rattling against the crystal tumbler. A grim smile rose on my face. Focused on my target, I was a heat-seeking missile. Nothing could move me off course.

Chapter Two

Elise