She remained silent as I headed to one of the developments that was almost completed. The beautiful tower had been a pet project, one of few I’d had in my career. Since we were in the heart of Miami, close to South Beach, the buildings and residences were considered pricy. I could tell by the smug look on her face she thought the project was just another money-grubbing scheme.
“What commercial site are we going to?”
“Not commercial,” I told her. “Since you’ve done your homework on my company, I’m certain you read we’ve branched into land development.”
“For the rich and famous. How appropriate.”
The construction fence was still in place although other than finishing touches, the building with its amenities was ready to be opened. When I headed through the gate, waving to the general contractor who happened to be talking with the architect, she was at least interested enough to lean forward in her seat.
“Let me guess. The units go for around five million. The larger units ten. Right?”
I nodded. “That would be yes.”
She eyed me curiously while I parked the car. Yes, I’d been overtly ostentatious in bringing the Ferrari, but I’d been unable to help myself. “Why are you showing me this? So that I better understand the quality of a wife you need? Someone who won’t make a fool of herself in front of your rich friends?”
“I can understand why you believe that to be the case. Why don’t I show you? After that you can be the judge and jury if necessary.”
“Fine.” She unsnapped her seatbelt, immediately climbing outside.
I took my time walking around the back of the car. She was standing with her eyes shielded while staring at the impressive mostly glass building.
“My guess is you have a penthouse suite.”
Chuckling, I shook my head. “There are six units on the top floor.”
“I don’t need to bask in your glory of opulence, Christian. I know the score.”
“Just come with me. Watch your step.” When I automatically placed my hand on the small of her back, she tensed but didn’t fight me. I walked her through the lobby, noticing she was surprised by seeing the signs draped in front of the commercial space. “What’s wrong?”
“An arcade. An ice cream parlor. A grocery store. A hardware store. What else? Disneyland?”
She had me laughing again. “That’s out back.” I enjoyed the thorough look of confusion she continued to wear as I led her toward a massive set of doors. Just before we reached them, she slowed. “You have a party going on?”
“Yes. A welcoming party.”
While she allowed me to guide her outside, I sensed she was more hesitant than before.
The immediate screams of children playing, splashing in the water were only minutely drowned out by the music, the band dressed in festive attire playing in the cabana.
She studied the entire layout, taking in the party as if something she’d never seen before in her life. I stood where I was, curious as to her thoughts, but not willing to pepper her with questions.
“A balloon artist?”
“Why not? I hear the kids love them.”
A full two minutes ticked by.
“What is this for?” she finally asked.
“These are the new residents. I thought it would be a nice touch to have a party welcoming them.”
“Rich kids and their rich parents. Are the nannies here as well?”
I turned toward her, shoving my hands into my trousers while noticing my office manager was headed in my direction. “Why don’t I allow Jennifer to answer your questions.”
“Mr. Elliot. I didn’t know you were dropping by. It’s great to see you.”
Almost immediately, Vanessa bristled. “Jennifer. I’d like you to meet a special friend of mine, Vanessa Blair. Vanessa, this is my office manager, Jennifer Olson. Jen, why don’t you tell Vanessa about our units and our special families.”
