Chapter 63

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“Bottom line, I can probably have the place ready in early spring. What do you think?”

René was smiling. I saw that as a good sign. “This is amazing, Serge. Your ideas are excellent. If things work out as well as I think they will, you’ll be getting lots of referrals from me. Those knuckleheads down the hall? They’re all professionals in their own right—chefs, venture capitalists, lawyers, pilots. They either have a project of their own, or know someone who does. I’d be more than happy to send their business your way.”

“I appreciate your vote of confidence. I hope I won’t disappoint you.” I gathered up the documents and stood. “I should get going.”

René stood and walked to another, smaller desk. He opened a drawer and pulled out an envelope. “Here is the first check. You’ll get payments weekly, per our agreement.”

“Thanks.” I took it and stashed the envelope in my backpack.