A Secretive Deal with My Billionaire Boss novel Chapter 289

Chapter 289

Madison

A woman in her forties stepped forward, introducing herself as Diane Peters, the lead architect. “Mr. Knight, we’ve revised the atrium design as requested.” She unrolled a large blueprint across the table. “The central skylight has been expanded by thirty percent, allowing more natural light throughout the main concourse.”

I positioned myself slightly behind Alexander, tablet poised to capture key points. His presence filled the small space, commanding attention without effort. As Diane explained the modifications, I noticed how everyone leaned forward when Alexander spoke, hanging on his every word.

“The cost implications?” Alexander asked, his finger tracing the outline of the atrium.

A thin man with wire–rimmed glasses cleared his throat. “We’ve run the numbers, Mr. Knight. The additional glass work adds approximately $1.2 million to the budget, but we believe the energy savings and increased foot traffic will offset this within three years.”

Alexander’s eyes narrowed. “Three years is too long. Make it two.”

“But Mr. Knight, the calculations-”

“Are based on conservative estimates,” Alexander interrupted. “Adjust your models. Two years.”

I tapped this into my tablet, adding a note to follow up on the revised calculations.

The meeting continued with presentations on materials, timeline adjustments, and security features. I

documented each point meticulously, occasionally glancing up to find Alexander watching me with an intensity that made my skin flush.

During a discussion about the food court layout, Alexander leaned close, his breath warm against my ear. “You missed a point about the ventilation system.”

I scrolled back through my notes. “No, I have it right here under infrastructure.”

His hand slid under the table, landing on my knee. “Show me.”

I tilted the tablet toward him, hyper–aware of his fingers drawing small circles on my skin. “See? Ventilation system upgrades, additional $340,000, completion by week 32.”

“Hmm,” he murmured, his hand inching higher. “Very thorough, Ms. Harper.”

I shifted slightly, crossing my legs to trap his wandering hand. “I try to be, Mr. Knight.”

His eyes darkened with amusement, but he withdrew his hand and returned his attention to the meeting.” Continue with the parking structure modifications.”

Another hour passed with detailed discussions about everything from lighting fixtures to bathroom tile selections. Alexander remained engaged throughout, asking pointed questions that often left the team scrambling for answers.

“The escalator placement doesn’t make sense,” he said, pointing to a section of the blueprint. “Shoppers

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coming from the north entrance will have to walk the entire length of the concourse to reach the upper level.”

Diane hesitated. “We were working within the structural constraints-”

“Move it,” Alexander said flatly. “Find a way. I want options on my desk by Wednesday.”

“Yes, Mr. Knight,” she replied, making a note.

I added this to my action items, wondering how they’d solve the structural challenge.

As the meeting wound down, Frank distributed folders containing the updated timeline and budget.

“We’re still on track for the grand opening next spring,” he concluded. “Barring any major weather delays or supply chain issues.”

Alexander closed his folder. “Supply chain won’t be an issue. I’ve already secured commitments from all primary vendors.” He stood, signaling the end of the meeting. “Weekly updates from now on. Ms. Harper will coordinate.”

Everyone nodded, gathering their materials as Alexander moved toward the door. I followed, tucking my tablet under my arm, when Frank called out.

“Ms. Harper, could I get your email for those weekly reports?”

Before I could respond, Alexander turned. “Send them to me directly, and copy Ms. Harper. She’ll review before they reach my desk.”

I handed Frank my business card. “My contact information. Feel free to reach out with any questions.”

Outside, the sun beat down on the construction site. Workers in hard hats moved purposefully among steel beams and concrete forms, the skeleton of what would become Riverside Plaza taking shape against the skyline.

Alexander paused, surveying the progress. “What did you

think?”

“The atrium redesign is ambitious,” I replied, shielding my eyes from the sun. “But I think Diane’s team can make it work.”

“And the escalator issue?”

I considered this. “They’ll need to reinforce the support columns in section C to accommodate the new placement. It’ll add costs.”

A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. “Very good, Ms. Harper. You’re paying attention.”

“It’s my job to pay attention, Mr. Knight.”

His eyes locked with mine. “Is that the only reason?”

Heat crept up my neck. “What other reason would there be?”

“Perhaps you enjoy watching me work.” His voice dropped lower. “The way I enjoy watching you.”

A construction worker passed nearby, nodding respectfully. I stepped back, creating professional distance

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between us. “The car should be waiting.”

Alexander chuckled, aware of my deflection. “Lead the way.”

I strode ahead, feeling his eyes on me as we walked toward the waiting car. The driver opened the door, and I slid into the cool leather interior, grateful for the escape from the heat.

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