“No. I have all the information the client will need to decide if they’d like to go the sustainable route and how that would change on the blueprints, as well as cost and long-term goals.”
That’s my niche; it’s what I bring to the table over others. I’ve studied sustainability in urban settings since college, and I can’t wait to put it to good use.
He blows out a breath and says more to himself. “Okay. You’re right. We’re ready.”
“We are.” I grab his hand and smile. “In case I haven’t told you, I’m so proud of you. What you’ve built here is incredible.”
“You have often, but boosting my ego a little more doesn’t hurt.” He winks, and I chuckle, following him into the conference room.
“We understand that sustainability can come with a higher initial price tag, such as high-efficiency systems and green materials. But those investments are not expenses without return. They’re a conscious decision directly impacting operating costs, tenant satisfaction, and long-term asset value. Not to mention your brand’s public image. Which is why sustainability is fast becoming an expectation.”
Skip, our client, doesn’t say much; he just nods along as I speak.
I side-eye Leo to ensure I’m on the right track, and he gestures encouragingly, so I continue with the savings projections.
“For cost, let’s take energy. With improved insulation, smart lighting, and efficient HVAC, we’re projecting a thirty percent reduction in use. That’s millions saved over the building’s lifetime, not to mention tax incentives and LEED certification bonuses.”
Skip holds up his hand, stopping me mid-spiel.
“You’ve impressed me, Madeline. I don’t need to hear more. Let me review the documents and we’ll schedule a follow-up next week.” He turns to Leo, dismissing me, and I’m freaking out on the inside.
He’s impressed.
The team escorts Skip to the elevator when Leo pulls me aside and leans in so no one else hears. “You fucking killed it, Maddie. Meet me in conference room two to debrief. I need to make a quick call. I should be five, ten minutes tops.”
Buzzing, I all but skip to the conference room, debating whether I have time to call Mase or Addie to tell them.
“Oh, Madeline.” Lizzy, Leo, and Nate’s assistant almost barrels into me. “I’m sorry. I’m a whirlwind today.”
“No worries. I was lost in my own mind.” I take in the piles of documents she’s holding. “Can I help you with something?”
“You’re not going to the west wing by chance, are you?”
“I am. I’m meeting Leo in conference room two.”
With no hands available, she asks if I can help with the hair in her face. “Thanks. Could you also take the stack on top?”
I grab a few printed pitch decks and mood boards that are piled high.
“Where do you want them?”
“You’re a lifesaver. Can you drop them off on Nate’s desk, please?” She rushes off, leaving me stunned and unable to move.
I’ve avoided his office like the plague.
Like a scared kid in a dark basement, any time I have to walk by, I power walk as fast as possible so I have no time to peek in.
Grow up. You can do this, Madeline.
The clicking of my heels suddenly echoes, bouncing off the walls, as I inch forward, regulating my breathing before I open his door.
For God’s sake, it’s just his office, not his bedroom.
I step in, and involuntarily, my eyes close. My senses are instantaneously overwhelmed with the familiar scent of Nate as a rush of nostalgia invades my mind.
Which is ridiculous because he hasn’t been here in weeks.
I take a few more breaths, stealing the forbidden moment for myself, where later, I’ll bask in the moment alone in my room because engaged girls don’t think like this.
