Contract Negotiation

Velvet Kitchen sat on the corner of Fifth and Main, its dark wood facade and brass fixtures screaming expensive.

Maddox adjusted his tie as he walked through the heavy glass doors. The hostess, a young woman with perfectly styled hair, looked him up and down.

"I'm here to meet Sarah Mitchell," he said.

"Right this way, sir."

She led him through the dining room, past tables where men in suits talked in low voices over steaks and wine.

Sarah Mitchell stood up as he approached. She was younger than he'd expected, maybe mid-thirties, with sharp eyes and a firm handshake.

Next to her sat a man who looked like he'd played football himself—broad shoulders, weathered face, the kind of presence that filled a room.

"Mr. Maddox, pleasure to meet you. This is Marcus Webb, our youth development director."

Marcus stood and extended his hand. His grip was strong, testing. "Good to meet you, Maddox. I've heard good things."