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I scanned the nearby tables, noting the elegantly dressed women and the men in smart ties. Maybe this was a place where business was done.
“Dr. Palmer?” The familiar deep voice behind made me jump. I half turned around to look as Daniel Reed walked with an unhurried stride, taking the seat across from me. He wore an expensive suit, impeccably tailored.
Even in the brightness he still managed to carry a dark, inscrutable aura around himself. He casually seated himself at my table, long legs stretching out and arms crossed at the elbows.
I was deeply confused and at a complete loss for words. What was happening?
I guess the question must have been written clearly on my face.
“I believe you're waiting for me,” he added.
“I was under the impression I'd be meeting with Evan Smith.”
“Oh,” he smiled or tried to. What I got was a cold turning up of his lips. “My business associate,” he said, then added, “and friend. I guess he forgot to mention you'd be meeting with me.”
I didn't know what to make of all this. Already, my face was heating up just thinking of the last time we met. I silently cursed the pulsing in my core as I pressed my thighs together. He seemed to know what I was thinking because this time he let out a real smile, although wicked.
“He did forget to mention that. And where is he now?” I asked, my voice a bit too raspy.
“Got delayed. An important business matter. He sends his apologies,” he said offhandedly.
“Dr. Palmer,” he continued, sitting upright. “Evan was first to note your impressive successes as a biochemist. I must say, your work is truly commendable.” He hadn't even bothered with pleasantries or such social affectations. I guessed it was straight to business then.
“Thank you. And, please, it’s Amy,” I said with a slight, practiced smile to match the tone he set.
He stared me straight in the eyes as he spoke.
“Your latest research on clinical genetic augmentation is one that draws a lot of interest and attention. Evan is interested, naturally, but being in a non-scientific role, he can only offer to be a financial sponsor.”
“That's where you come in, I guess.”
“Yes. You might know that I run a biotech company and so we are very much interested in your research. We are always looking out for the latest scientific developments.”
“I see.” My mind was spinning and feeling slightly hazy. Was he deliberately staring at me intensely? There was heat in his gaze, I was sure… or was it just me? I resisted the urge to fan myself with my hands. After our last encounter, I wasn't sure we could actually have a working relationship? Was he offended? Did I need to apologize?
“That's why Jules Textiles and Reed Biotech have decided to partner in sponsoring you. Jules Textiles will provide part of the needed funds and Reed Biotech will set up a lab specifically for you. We will grant you access to research assistants to speed up your work along with other great minds with whom you can share and receive insights. We will also provide funding. To the extent of whatever you may require.”
I paused. “That's a very generous offer,” I noted, feeling a little dazed at the extent of just what he was saying. This was incredible… but there was sure to be a catch. “And in return, what do you get?”
“Exclusive market rights. Don't get me wrong. We will not take your work from you. Your name will be known and you'll receive all the credit. But we will retain the right to market this product, of course, at affordable rates for those in need. I understand that this research is quite personal to you and driven by humanitarian concerns.”
I nodded in agreement.
“We promise to respect that and not overprice the product. In fact, we will set up a fund to provide a hundred percent assistance to those who are the most in need of financial support.” He was leaning forward on the table, forearms resting on the surface. He spoke urgently, like he truly wanted this partnership to happen. There was something so genuine about his tone. “But we will be the sole distributor and will require you to announce that it was done in collaboration with us. These things can give a good boost to a company’s name, you see.”
“That's alright.” I conceded. “But I will need time to think about this. Do you have a contract?”
He reached into his briefcase and set a stapled set of documents in front of me. I looked at them, not able to focus on a single letter that was on the paper.
“Thank you. I’ll read through these and give you a response by Monday,” I promised, moving to stand up.
“One more thing,” he said, putting his hand on mine to stall me. Unexpected heat shot through me at the slight contact. I sat back down and hoped my face didn't reflect what I just felt.
“If you accept the offer,” he continued, giving no indication as to whether he noticed my heated skin. “You'll be under the employment of Reed Biotech for the duration of your research. If you leave before then, our agreement will be null and void.”
Chapter 13
Daniel
