The expansive Mitus property and picturesque setting reminded Brigit of the beautiful Virginia horse country with its scenic views and soft, rolling hills. A manicured lawn boasted several exquisite gardens. As the car rounded the bend, she gasped. Tucked at the end of the long, curvy driveway loomed his breathtaking mansion. The horseshoe-shaped brick house had several front-facing windows and two large turrets.Impressive.
Vonn parked at the circle, near the bubbling fountain and topiary garden. On cue, the French doors swung open and Taylor, dressed in a chic black pantsuit with a vibrant scarf, emerged.
As soon as Vonn opened Brigit’s door, she stepped out. “Th-thank you for the ride, V-Vonn.” Her teeth chattered from the chill within.Get your shit together. You have one shot.
After taking Brigit’s laptop bag from Vonn, Taylor slid her hand into the crook of Brigit’s arm and ushered her inside. The warm air mixed with the homey aroma of just-baked chocolate chip cookies reminded her of fun Saturday afternoons spent baking with her mom. But Samantha Francesco was long gone. That thought knocked the nostalgia right out of her.
A life-size sculpture of Michelangelo’s “David” stood in the foyer alcove at the foot of the regal, curving staircase. But this David wore an eye patch and a black cloak while a black skirt covered his groin.
“Meet David, our Halloween pirate. We dress him for holidays.” Taylor stepped close and whispered, “Even though Colton’s not a fan.”
Whimsical costume aside, the statue was a stunning replica. The living room mirrored a beautiful layout fromElegant Homesmagazine. The burning logs in the ornate white marble fireplace crackled and spit embers onto the hearth. In the center of the room, two massive cream sofas flanked a large coffee table with a pair of expensive-looking seventeenth century French vases. Bay windows, facing the front of the property, were draped with handsome burgundy and gold window treatments.Making millions taking my company public had its advantages.
“Vonn will take your overnight bag to the guest suite,” Taylor said. “Would you like coffee, tea, or sparkling water?”
“Sparkling water, thanks.”
“Colton is expecting you.” Taylor escorted Brigit down a hallway, past several doors until she reached the intimidating double doors at the end.
Brigit took her computer bag from Taylor and heaved in a lung-filling breath.Time to rock this.
Taylor knocked.
“Enter,” Colton replied.
Brigit’s heart picked up speed.
“Good luck.” Taylor pushed opened the door, and with a sweep of her hand motioned Brigit forward.
She walked in and Taylor shut the door behind her.
The large, masculine room with deep brown paneled walls, ceiling and flooring was brightened by a wall of windows with French doors that faced the back of the property. Beyond the shiny mahogany floor lay an immaculate Persian rug. A conference table filled the far corner and a formal sitting area stood in the center, but the reason for her visit loomed larger than life behind his stately antiqued desk.
Colton.
She’d stepped into his world and the magnitude of his power hit her with gale force. This formidable man overshadowed everything in that space. With his eyes locked on hers, he rounded his desk with a confident stride.
Charisma, fortitude, and so much sex appeal oozed from his every pore. The midnight blue tailored suit, stark white dress shirt and navy blue power tie complemented his solid frame, but it was his charming smile and mussed hair that ignited her insides and set her heart aflutter.
“Colton.” This time she initiated a strong handshake. His large, warm hand boosted her confidence and settled her butterflies.I can do this.
“Brigit.” He spoke her name with the gentle fluidity of cool water burbling down a stream. With his unwavering gaze, he continued. “Besides sparkling water, can we get you anything?”
He had been watching her. “Do you spy on everyone or is this special treatment reserved for guests?”
“Specialguests,” he murmured and a shadow fell over his eyes.
Her cheeks warmed. As much as she loathed him, it excited her that he’d been watching. Then she’d been invisible. Now he couldn’t look away.
He lifted her computer bag from her shoulder and with a light grip on the back of her arm, guided her to his conference table. A few easy steps and she was ready. After picking up the remote and ensuring Colton had a clear view of the presentation on the screen behind her, she zeroed in on his stormy, mysterious eyes.This is it. Wish me luck, Mom and Dad.
She spoke deliberately, but not too slowly. She smiled, but not too big or too frequently. She injected humor, but not too much. She knew when to pause and when to speed up, based on reading his body language. She was succinct and yet full of knowledge about the businesses to which she was now privy.
Her recommendations were focused on expanding his empire, taking him in new, exciting directions while protecting the vast wealth he’d created. She’d memorized her presentation and her performance was impeccable. Though Colton glanced at the screen, he stayed focused on confident, poised Brigit Farnay, who weaved a lovely silk blanket around him.
An hour and a half later, she was done, for better or for worse. She eased into the chair next to him and poured a glass of sparkling water. Relief washed over her as the bubbly liquid soothed her parched throat.
“In summary, you have a robust and diverse portfolio.” She set down the glass. “As I discussed, there are numerous ways to significantly and positively impact your business, thereby increasing your profits. You won’t benefit from real financial gain until the losses are managed and your portfolio streamlined. The strategies I outlined are the best, most practical and fastest way to gain solid footing.” She closed her laptop. “Thank you for holding your questions. I can address them now.”
