While the cheers were still echoing through Gray & Milton's halls, my mind couldn't help drifting to the other side of the city, where the atmosphere wouldn't be nearly as bright.
I knew Val would be dealing with the aftermath in her own building, in her own way.
And I could picture it perfectly.
Gianna slipped into Val's office just as she ended her call.
"Ma'am?" Gianna said quietly. "Mr. Chairman is asking for you. His office."
Val paused, fingers still resting on her phone. "Now?"
] "Yes ma'am. He said immediately."
Val nodded, rose, smoothed the front of her blouse, and walked out. Gianna followed her to the elevator, then stayed behind as the doors closed.
As Val stepped into the executive floor, the air was heavier. Everyone already knew the results were out. Everyone already knew the loss.
And everyone understood why the Chairman wanted his two children—and the man who led the project—together in the same room.
She pushed the door open.
