“Tell me about it,” Rhett says. “I gotta fly back to Chicago tomorrow. Working around the clock. Shattered.”
I watch them closely, and I get worried. I need one of them in Tokyo ASAP to close the deal.
“Troy, you’re likely the most suitable for Japan. You used to work with some of the team in the day. You know some of them well.”
Troy walks back inside, and he sighs.
Here we go.
I decide to refocus on Rhett and try to get him over the edge. “Rhett, you speak fluent Japanese. Way better than either of us. You could nail it fast, and you can take my jet.”
He shakes his head and drinks more black coffee. “Look, buddy,” he says. “I can’t for a month, at least. I have way too many ad campaigns on. Here, and in Europe. Anyway, it’s your overall deal, pal. Why don’t you go?”
Before I can answer, Troy chips in, “You’re not wrong.”
Dear God…
I know all our reputations for partying and dating high-profile hotties are suspect. I do, however, know mine is likely the worstfrom back in the day. I cross my arms. I need it made clear. “The Japanese are beyond conservative in corporate business. Even my gardener knows that. Hell, first year MBAs learn that Q1. They know about my past. They know about me being a…”
“Playboy?!”
“Busy man! Very busy man,” I say.
“In panties,” Rhett says, not helping.
“Okay, some panties,” I agree. “Anyway, there is a fair chance they don’t think I’m suitable and they disagree to the acquisition offer. And then we will have to find another partner. That is, if we can find one.”
I pace in the jet,trying to remain calm.
“A massive deal turned down in the global media may well poison the well. The entire global entertainment plan and to help solidify media production more firmly in the US may hit the fucking wall.”
We exchange glances, and they do not look sold. “Guys, we have a problem, and we need a solution! Fast!” We share looks, in silence, and I know I am now officially screwed. “I have the worst rep, even if now I’m a monk!”
They say nothing, and I start to feel it all fall apart. I need something, anything, to help.
The sound of a powerful engine builds, and then wheels screech outside. I lean out the door, and it’sher.
Below, Sam gets out, and she looks hot. Hot in her black T-shirt and those black leather pants. She also has a cute black silk scarf around her neck. I growl, and she looks stunning.
She walks up the jet stairs, looking extra cas. “Boys.”
Samantha walks into the pilot’s cabin to give us space and she pauses in the door. She leans back and hands me a small bag.
Intrigued, I look inside. It’s my favorite—a chocolate éclair. As she closes the cockpit door and I eat, the guys smile. “Now what?” I ask, my mouth full.
“Cute!”
“Cute what?” I ask, now getting annoyed.
Troy lifts his silver briefcase, and he smiles wide.
“What?” I growl louder.
“Fake.”
“Fake fucking what?”
“Fake… engagement.”
