The photos were mostly taken as we were leaving the bar. The angles were peculiar, with some making it seem like Zack was holding me. In one of the photos, it even looked like we were kissing.
I scanned the room. Mr. Finnley avoided eye contact while Mackenzie's initial shock quickly gave way to a mocking smirk. The representatives from Gray Realty, however, looked unimpressed.
"Is this what your company prepared for us? Ms. Surrey's romantic escapades?" one of them asked coldly.
Laughter erupted across the room, and all eyes turned to me.
Astrid looked visibly anxious, unsure of what to do. Meanwhile, Annie quietly slipped out while no one was paying attention.
I closed the slideshow and opened the design software without missing a beat. "Apologies. It seems someone thought this would make for a funny prank. But don't worry, it won't disrupt our meeting."
I couldn't afford to waste time. Gray Realty's visit was clearly a surprise inspection to evaluate potential partners. I needed to act fast.
I began sketching directly in the software. "Since this visit was unannounced, I'll walk you through the design concept and key details based on what we've prepared so far," I said confidently.
I started outlining my ideas, taking into account the terrain and surrounding environment. Strangely, ever since my surgery, my mind felt sharper. Even though I had only reviewed this project twice, I could recall the details with clarity.
As a professional, I had made it my job to thoroughly understand the client's requirements from the start. While sketching, I highlighted key points in my design, observing the representatives' growing admiration. It was clear this partnership was almost a sure thing.
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