Page 132 of The Silver Fox Brother

I pause, then add, "One additional note. I'll be making an emergency site visit to Naples at the end of the week. There's a contractor issue that needs immediate attention. I'll be leaving Thursday morning and returning Friday evening or Saturday morning."

A few people nod. Marcus makes a note.

"That's all for now. Back to work."

The room begins to empty. People gather their materials, conversations breaking into smaller groups as they file out.

Winter stands and starts packing up her tablet.

"Winter," I say, and she looks up.

"Bring the updated Tribeca files to my office. I need to review the penthouse material specifications."

She nods without speaking and walks out with the rest of the group.

I return to my office and settle behind my desk, trying to focus on the emails that have piled up during the meeting.

Ten minutes later, there's a knock on my door.

"Come in."

Winter walks in carrying a folder of files. She crosses to my desk and I stand. She extends the folder toward me. Our hands brush as I take it. She pulls away immediately.

I refocus and open the folder, scanning the material specifications and timeline documentation inside.

"Walk me through this week's schedule," I say, keeping my tone neutral.

Winter steps closer, pointing to specific items in the file.

"The three-bedroom custom millwork installation is happening early in the week. The two-bedroom gets final furniture delivery mid-week. Penthouse tile selections need final approval by the end of the week to stay on fabrication schedule."

"And you'll have those approvals ready?"

"Yes."

I close the folder and look at her directly.

"I want you to accompany me to Naples at the end of the week."

Winter's eyes widen slightly. "What?"

"The Naples development. I want you to see some of the design concepts. Get your perspective."

"No."

The word is immediate, definitive.

I raise an eyebrow. "What's the issue?"

"I have an actual business to run. I have clients and other projects that require my attention."

"I should remind you of the stipulations in your contract—"

"What does another project in Naples have to do with the Tribeca project?" Winter interrupts, her voice sharp.

I'm making this up as I go, reaching for justification.

"The design approach could inform future phases of the Tribeca development. It's relevant to your work."