Chapter Three
Carle knew she was running late. The meeting was in 15 minutes. She barely had time to make it and there was a sense of urgency in the text message from James Brighton. James ran a tight ship. Gaunt with a receding hairline, he wore rounded specs that was constantly falling down to his nose. He actually resembled a librarian but was one of the most brilliant mind in the industry. Carla considered herself fortunate to have apprenticed under him. When James announced an emergency meeting, everyone high-tailed it to the office.
“Sorry I’m late…” Carla exclaimed as she burst into James’ office.
“Come in, Carla.” James motioned to an empty office.
“Am I too early? Your message said 9 AM,” Carla replied glancing at her watch.
James beamed as she took her seat. “I only requested your presence. I have an announcement to make.”
Carla wondered what it was all about.
“We’ve just been offered a contract and it’s a big one.” How would you like to manage a restoration project? I believe that’s your forte,” James declared.
“I’d love to,” Carla replied. Her portfolio included some of the best restoration jobs in the country. There was something about bringing a derelict back to life that gave her gratification.
“You’ll have full control. Budget, contractors, construction materials, design, everything. And to top it all you will be paid $100,000 to do it.”
“$100,000?” Carla shrieked. That was more money than she earned in a year. It was more than enough to see her through her pregnancy and start her own practice too.
Suddenly she was hopeful. Fate threw a juicy steak in her direction.
“I’ll take it,” Carla exclaimed.
There are some conditions though,” James replied.
“What? I don’t care if the project is on Mars. I’ll still take it,” Carla rejoined with enthusiasm.
James smiled. “I’m glad to hear that because it will require you to live in another country.”
“Where?” Carla was bursting with excitement. Surely this had to be the biggest break of her career.
James scratched his head. “I can’t pronounce the darn name but no matter. The client will discuss the details with you.”
As if on cue, the door opened and James’ secretary ushered the client in.
Carla was dumbstruck. She would recognize him even on her deathbed. Falcon followed the secretary inside the room.
“Hello Carla. Good Morning, Brighton.”
Falcon?” Carla squeaked still unbelieving. She must be dreaming.
“You two know each other?” James was puzzled.
“Miss Hornsby and I are friends.” Falcon explained. “I knew she would be perfect for the job. That is the reason why I specifically asked for her.”
Falcon was staring at her making it hard to think clearly. But things started falling into place. She had no doubt the job was the property he acquired in France. That was all Falcon talked about the night…
“I’m happy to inform you that Carla just accepted the job.” James announced.
“Good. I do want to discuss the matter with her,” Falcon replied pointedly.
“Of course,” James said rising.
Silence ensued.
“Why are you doing this?” Carla asked weakly.
