She motioned to the space on the left that imitated an outdoor cafe, complete with ornate stone railings that would separate the patrons from the visitors. It was the only aspect of the design that stood out from the theme, but we’d incorporated it as best we could, wanting to offer an experience for visitors.
“I offered it to Guillermo,” Knox said, motioning for Emily to precede him into the empty dining area. “He said he had to think on it.”
“Really?” Emily’s eyes were wide. “He’d have his own restaurant. Why would he possibly need to think about it?”
“You,” Knox answered. “He cares what you think, what you want.”
She shook her head. “I want him to be happy. That’s all that matters.”
“Then perhaps you’ll share that with him when you see him next,” I told her with a smile.
We moved on, covering the rest of the main floor, including two smaller auction showrooms, both mimicking a theater with rows of numbered seats on two levels. The walkways were wider than normal, which would allow auction assistants to move freely on the burgundy carpets in order to account for bids. When we made our way to the showroom dedicated to the larger items, things that would need to remain on the ground floor, Emily seemed pleased. Then we were on to the next level, through a variety of similarly themed spaces, all minimalistic in design because the most important aspect would always be the items on display.
By the time we reached the fifth floor, Emily was practically vibrating between us.
“It’s perfect, Knox. And I like that you went with the theater theme. It seems natural, highlighting what’s important while making it comfortable for bidders.”
Once again, Knox met my gaze over her head, and I knew whatever he was about to show her was going to be significant.
This was where the theater theme ended and austerity took over. Rather than red and gold, the decor was brilliant white with pops of color throughout. Everything had been selected for its practicality rather than its attractiveness, while still maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.
“These are the main offices,” Knox explained as we strolled through the wide hallway that split the individual offices and conference rooms.
We came to a reception space, complete with a large desk, currently unoccupied, as well as a scattering of seating. The offices lined the wall on the outer ring of the area, all the doors currently closed.
Knox motioned toward the door on our left, which led to the largest office on the floor.
Emily followed his hand, walked in that direction, then came to an abrupt halt, her eyes glued to the nameplate.
“What is going on?” Her tone bordered on panic when she peered back, glared at Knox.
“This is your office,” he explained, his tone professional. “You’ve got an office in each of the showrooms across the country. Depending on where you need to be at the time, you’ll have your own space to work.”
Emily turned to face him fully, her expression stony. “I don’t understand.”
Knox’s gaze bumped mine briefly before he turned to her. “What’s to explain? Delta June’s belongs to you, Emily.”
~~~~
Emily
I was teetering on the verge ofa panic attack.
There was no doubt I was overwhelmed by it all. Not to mention pleasantly surprised that Knox would have such insight into what would hopefully draw clients in from all over the world. New York’s theater experience, most notably Broadway, was world-famous. And it worked for an auction house because the items that were on display were similar to a film in that they were the main focus.
However, this made no sense whatsoever. Why would I possibly need an office in one of Knox’s companies?
I could hear Knox’s voice, even processed what he was saying, but none of it computed.
“My father told me you took over, that you would eventually be changing the name and altering the basis of the company. He said you’d probably stop the auctions altogether once the items he’d acquired over the years were gone.”
“The only truth in that statement is that I took over because I did. Someone had to. However, it wasn’t my intention to be at the helm indefinitely.”
I stared at him. He looked so sincere when he spoke, but I found it difficult to believe.
“Come on,” Knox said, motioning toward the door. “At least go inside, look around.”
Because I didn’t want to pass out on the floor, I turned back to the door, opened it. The space was much bigger than I’d anticipated. The entire length of it was lined with windows that overlooked Central Park. It wasn’t quite the view I had in my apartment considering we were much lower to the ground, but it was breathtaking. Below I could see the traffic congestion as well as the people, some strolling, some moving quickly, even a few who were sitting and enjoying the day.
