Page 84 of A Bossy Roommate
“I’ve been doing this longer than you’ve been alive. This isn’t the only big-ticket client you’re juggling. And given what happened with the Grangers, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were a little off your game.”
“If you’re trying to psyche me out, you’re doing a poor job of it.”
We part ways.
When we reach the parking lot, the limousine arrives, and we greet Joe Walsh and Adam Baker.
“Good morning, Joe, Adam,” I say, and we shake hands. “Glad you could join us today.”
Meeting them outside and bringing them up has provided a nice, personal touch.
While they’re both businessmen, they wear dark jeans and button-up flannel shirts, unlike the finely pressed suits Huxley and I wear. I enjoy their decision to maintain a casual dress code during our meeting, despite the high stakes of the billion-dollar deal we’re discussing today. Passing them on the street, you’d see two men who were used to getting their hands dirty rather than signing multi-million-dollar deals. I’m not judging—I’ve found the experience of working with them to be highly favorable compared to, let’s say, other business types.
“Thanks again for the driver and for meeting us downstairs,” Joe says as we all sit down in the conference room and the introductions and small talk are done. “This place is so huge, I’m certain we would have wandered around aimlessly if you hadn’t met us at the car.”
“Well, we’re always here to rescue lost souls in this labyrinth of a place.” Eden smiles.
“We understand that our facility can be expansive,” Huxley says, his tone subtly correcting her charming response, apparently oblivious to the fact that they’ve already met, and that her playful reply had been spot on, “but we’re pleased that you have found your way, and we extend a warm welcome to you.”
Everything goes smoothly after that. I give the presentation with zero issues or interruptions. I’ve made several refinements to the existing plan that further clarifies our objectives and strategies, and the new ideas provide additional direction to our plans, making it clear that our proposal is the best possible option.
In my mind, the meeting really is a formality to sign the contracts and seal the deal. At least, that’s what it’s supposed to be.
Once I finish the main talking points, I ask, “Any questions?”
“Yes, I have one.” Adam twirls the pen he’s holding in his fingers.
He’d been the one who’d left our meeting in Phoenix early. I haven’t spoken much with him over the phone or through email. Most of my dealings have been with Joe, which means I haven’t been able to get a read on Adam’s personality. Of the two partners, Joe seems to be the more personable one while Adam keeps to himself.
“I’d be glad to answer it for you,” I say. “What would you like to know?”
“I know what you quoted us, and your presentation was noticeably clear on what you could do for us within our budget. But I also know construction isn’t always so cut and dry. What if there is something unexpected that comes up?”
“We’ve prepared for any and all possible changes or adjustments in the original quote,” I assure him. “And, if for some reason something happens that we didn’t prepare for,you, of course, will be consulted before we go ahead with those changes.”
Joe smiles and nods along as I talk, while Adam remains still and stone-faced. He doesn’t look convinced or overly impressed.
“Letmeanswer your question. I am the Chief Financial Officer and branch manager here, after all.” Huxley speaks up, sitting straighter in his seat. “See, I was in real estate once upon a time as you both are, and I know what concerns you face moving forward with such a massive project. Rest assured, Carter has done all the legwork, and the quotation we are providing you with represents the optimal price for the services you require. Of course, if there are still concerns, allow me to set your mind at ease.”
I know exactly what he’s doing. Because I’ve seen him do it before. He’s trying to endear himself to the client, to get on their good side and butter them up so they’ll feel more comfortable with him, the individual who’s perceived as reliable and supportive of their interests—as opposed to me. I don’t know what bothers me more, the fact he would be so full of himself to make such a shitty move or the fact I know it could work.
“I understand cost and budget are major concerns,” I interject, barreling over whatever Huxley is going to say next. “Unless you have further specifications regarding the proposals presented today, we will—of course—put together an itemized breakdown of the cost for you. This breakdown will include a detailed list of all the services and materials required for the project, as well as their corresponding costs. Also, you will have my direct number. This way, even when our contractor takes over, you can always reach me with any concerns.”
Out of the corner of my eye, I see Huxley freeze.
I’m not about to lose this client, especially not to Huxley. My words are exactly what Adam needs to hear.
His shoulders relax, and he finally nods. “That would be appreciated, thanks,” he says. “I don’t mean to be difficult, but the reason I ask is that we’ve been screwed over before.”
“Our reputation speaks for itself,” I tell him. “Transparency is important to us. Our goal is to provide you with clear and concise information, so you have a full understanding of the scope of the project and the associated costs. The contractors and our accounting department will be happy to provide any invoice with a detailed price breakdown before it’s sent. Sound good?”
Huxley agrees hastily. “See, gentlemen? Legacy is the best for a reason. We deliver personal service and have your interests at heart.”
For the first time since he arrived, Adam’s face cracks into a smile. It’s a small one, but it’s there. “Yeah, sounds good.” He looks over at Joe. “You ready to sign this thing?”
It takes another twenty-five minutes to go through the contract and sign and initial every line, however, once it’s done, I shake their hands.
I don’t trust Huxley’s good mood and the sway of his sail for a second. One minute, he’s trying to screw the client over, and the next, he’s applauding my decisions. Eden’s accidental eavesdropping on his phone call leaves no doubt that it’s an act, but I can’t address it at the moment.