Page 86 of Shark’s Pride

“I could use some. Let’s hear it.”

“Yesterday, I was at the city planning office, checking on some drawings I needed to have stamped. Honestly, the backlog in that department is out of control.”

He shook his head while scowling. I nodded. I could appreciate his frustration with the city’s system of handling the building process.

“While I was there, I figured I may as well check in with DCP and see where we are on this project, especially with your groundbreaking target date looming so close.”

“Please say you have good news.” I didn’t hide my overt hope from the guy, though it was only cautious optimism. I was afraid to even admit to that, optimistic after the unending disappointments and red tape courtesy of City Hall.

“I’m happy to report that things are in great shape, Mr. Shark.”

“Are you shitting me? Uh…I mean…fill me in.” I wasn’t so opaque about the anticipation this time.

“There’s just one action item with Public Works”—Cole referred to some notes on his smart pad—“and if I had to guess the reason, the fire inspector’s backlog is likely to blame. On new construction, there is a concern with fire hydrant spacing and fire lane placement on the street level. I have both clearly marked on my plans, but I’m sure you’ve noticed those.” He pointed to the symbols for the valves spaced at regular intervals around the perimeter of the structure. “I suspect fire lanes could be on this street here, here, or here.” He swept his capped pen across the blueprint in conjunction with his directions. “Or possibly all three, based on the maximum occupancy of the building.” He quietly studied his drawing for a few moments before adding, “But ultimately, that’s up to Public Works to decide, along with the fire department. That’ll be another small holdup, I suspect…once the inspector sets eyes on the print.” He teetered his head back and forth. “But I shouldn’t think it’ll be too much longer.”

At last, Cole looked up from the detailed prints. He glanced back and forth between Grant and me for feedback. I noted his concern, but Grant was fixated on the intricacy of the drawing.

“This is really thorough, Cole.”

I let him hear the admiration in my tone. I couldn’t really throw anything at him that he hadn’t covered thus far. There was a good chance Jacob knew that already, but he nevertheless beamed like a kid with a fresh A on a test.

“There’s a secondary plan review with the state fire marshal, which is customary for high-rise buildings over a certain height,” he went on. “But your DBS concierge will most likely hand carry the plans through, getting one stamp right after the other. I mean, that would be ideal, right?” He added the last part when Grant and I remained silent.

“Forgive my ignorance,” Grant said with a self-deprecating wince. “DBS?”

“Department of Building and Safety,” I supplied. Still, I admitted to feeling a little inferior around Jacob and his vast building process knowledge. It was rare I felt less than another man in any arena. The sensation was unsettling—but not enough to prevent me from making my next statement.

“Once again, Mr. Cole, you’ve really impressed me. I know we haven’t gone through the change list yet, but your knowledge astounds me. That’s a rare occurrence.” I peered at him more carefully. He was a good-looking guy, with overall coloring similar to mine but a leaner build and a shaggier haircut. “How long did you say you’ve lived in this city?”

He shrugged. “Going on about six months now.”

“Six months,” I echoed. “Yet you’ve already learned the ins and outs of the city’s planning and permitting departments, as well as being nothing less than brilliant at your craft here.”

As I emphasized the point by tapping on the blueprints, Grant tossed in his approving vote with a sturdy nod. “Bas is right,” he declared. “I’ve only just met you, Cole, but I’m impressed. I think Bas has made an excellent choice putting you at the top of this project.”

Jacob flushed with another hit of humble pride. “Thanks, man. That means a lot. I know we’ll be working together more as the project takes off. I’m looking forward to it.”

“Ditto,” Grant returned and stepped around to shake Jacob’s hand again. “But right now, I need to head out and prep for another appointment.”

“Understood.” Jake nodded. “Don’t let me keep you.”

“Thank you for everything you’ve done so far. I look forward to sitting in on more of these meetings in the future.” Grant walked his coffee mug over to the kitchenette. “But I’ll see you at the groundbreaking?”

“Damn straight you will,” I stated—only to be caught short by Jake’s defined wince.

“About that…” Oh, yeah. It was definitely a wince. The guy was now radiating discomfort too.

“What is it?” Panic returned with a familiar drumbeat at my temples. “Is there an issue? A delay?”

“Oh, no,” Jake swiftly rectified. “Nothing like that. Not at all. I just wanted to let you know that I won’t be able to attend the ceremony. I received the invitation to my office late last week but wanted to give my regrets to you in person.”

“Oh, that’s really too bad. I was hoping to introduce you to the press,” I said, not hiding my disappointment.

“I appreciate that. Any type of PR is appreciated. Unfortunately, I’ll be in Barcelona.”

“Well, damn,” Grant teased. “That’s a real hardship, man.”

“Okay.” Jake put a hand up in concession. “Wrong choice of words. I meant that it’s unfortunate I’ll miss the event. But I am definitely happy to be going back to Spain.”