Chapter 17

Mina feels there is something different about Camilla. She works tirelessly on Project Cilla and maintaining high standard. Camilla is paying attention to details and takes care of her appearance more than ever. Mina notices that the skirt is shorter and tighter. She wears new lipstick and perfume. The same perfume she uses. This makes Mina suspicious. Why does Camilla change her scent? What is the reason for the change in perfume?

Camilla is sitting with technical team and Si contractors to finalize development plan of Project Cilla. She is explaining the schedule and cost analysis, and answering questions and objections. Her frowns heavily with her fingers tightly on his pen.

Procurement manager is explaining to her about the engineering design of the system.

"Our engineers have done the preliminary design for the project development plan. We're pretty confident about it. But we would like to hear your opinion before proceeding further."

"Of course. But as the recent energy crisis, our cost for fuel will increase significantly."

"We understand how important it is to reduce the cost. And the project is going to be installed in the most remote places where the road is poor. There's not much point in installing an expensive solar power plant that needs extensive maintenance and requires frequent servicing by road."

"Yes, I agree. Cost saving is very important. I can see the logic. I think you've got it all worked out. So what do you recommend?"

"Well, it depends on the specifics of the installation site."

Budget seems tight again. Camilla starts to worry. This may result in delay of project and affect the repayment of loan. Her mind is racing.

She has to find a solution quickly.

"But let me tell you one thing. The funding source has very strict requirements. We cannot deviate from their specifications. They will not fund any deviation or modification."

Technical teams shrug about this term as indeed modification may result some procurement goes to China from Japan suppliers.

"In other words, they want us to install the system according to the original plan. If we change anything, it will be impossible to get the funding and we are in default. Can you accept that?"

"I understand. In that way we need to increase the budget."

Camilla knows there won't be result today so she dismisses the meeting.

Derek is unhappy when Camilla told him about the situation at the end of the meeting.

"Why didn't you say something earlier? How did you know? I thought we had a deal already. Do you want to cancel the whole thing?"

"No, but I must have a solution. I don't have time."

"What shall I do? What if we go to China to buy cheaper goods? No, they won't allow us to import their inferior products. We'll be in default and it will be hard to borrow from bank at this stage of time."

"I am thinking. Can you speak with Mr. Hiratsuka about this?" Says Camilla.

"You have a deal with him and you need to discuss with him." Derek says.

Camilla knows Derek is doing the right thing but her eyes are not as focused as before when she stares at the wrinkle of Derek's shirt because of his big muscle.

Derek says to Camilla.

"If you're going to talk with him, make sure you have the answer first. Otherwise he will not entertain us."

Camilla sighs: "I will do my best to keep the deal. I promise you."

"Good luck then."

Camilla is alone with her thoughts in her office.

"Must find a way to solve the problem. Must find a solution. Why can't we get more money? Is it because of the market? Or is it because of me?"

Camilla feels hot and thirsty. She drinks water.