Chapter 209
Summer’s POV
“Jean–Pierre.”
“Jean–Pierre?” I repeated, my head snapping up as Brandon mentioned the name. “The chief engineer?”
Brandon raised an eyebrow, his dark eyes studying me with mild surprise. “You know him?”
“Of course I know,” I said, feeling a flutter of excitement. “Who in Manhattan’s architectural world doesn’t? Leo’s been mentioning him constantly these past few weeks.” I straightened in my seat, unable to hide my enthusiasm. “I heard the last two commercial plazas Stark Group developed were his designs. His work on the Riverview complex was groundbreaking!*
A small smile played at the corners of Brandon’s mouth. “I see you’ve done your homework.”
“It’s not exactly homework,” I admitted, feeling slightly self–conscious under his steady gaze. “I used to study his work in my free time, and when Leo started bringing him up during our Manhattan West Side discussions, I did some extra research.” I shrugged, trying to appear casual despite my obvious excitement. “His approach to urban development challenges is pretty revolutionary.”
Brandon’s eyes softened with unmistakable approval, warming me from the inside out. Without thinking, I reached over and lightly squeezed his hand.
“So,” I ventured, “is this you pulling strings for me?”
“If that’s how you want to see it,” Brandon replied, his voice taking on that velvety quality that always made my stomach flutter. He reached out, gently tapping the tip of my nose with his finger. “But remember, no matter how many resources I introduce you to, if you don’t work hard yourself, it’s all pointless.”
I nodded, feeling both chastised and motivated. “I know that.”
“You should talk to Leo about this,” Brandon suggested. “He could give you valuable insights.”
“Leo Schmidt?” I blinked in surprise. “He’s already been incredibly generous with his knowledge. The way he teaches me about projects is practically professor–level.”
“Jean–Pierre was his mentor,” Brandon revealed casually.
My eyes widened. “Seriously? Leo never mentioned that!” I frowned slightly, connecting dots in my head. “Wait a minute…”
My phone suddenly vibrated in my pocket. I pulled it out, checking the screen. “Speak of the devil,‘ I laughed, showing Brandon the
caller ID. “It’s Leo!”
I quickly answered. “Hello, Leo.”
“Summer,” Leo’s voice came through, sounding slightly congested. “How are those environmental assessment reports for the West Side project coming along? The ones I asked you to prepare this morning?”
“Leo, don’t worry, I assured him. “I’ve organized all the materials and already handed them over to Mr. Stark. You should focus on getting better. Heather and I have everything under control.”
“I see And what was Brandon’s feedback? Leo pressed.
I glanced at Brandon, who was listening intently. “Well… I just gave them to him, so he hasn’t had time to evaluate everything yet.”
I held out the phone to Brandon. “Leo, I’m actually with Brandon right now. He’d like to speak with you.”
1/2
Chapter 209
Brandon took the phone, his expression shifting into professional made. “Leo, Brandon Stark here. I’ve received Summer’s materials but haven’t had a chance to review them thoroughly yet. From what I’ve seen, they appear satisfactory. I’ll provide comprehensive feedback tonight. Take care of yourself.”
There was a pause as Leo responded.
“Yes, Brandon replied, his tone cooling noticeably. “Summer is with me. Is that a problem?”
Another pause, then Brandon handed the phone back to me with a sight smirk. I barely had time to end the call before Brandon’s phone started ringing. He glanced at it, then looked at me expectantly.
“Answer it, he instructed, nodding toward his phone.
I glanced down at the screen, steing Monica’s name flash across it. I turned the phone toward Brandon, silently questioning whether I should really answer his PA’s call.
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