Mr. Mark grinned as he spoke. “You know, we actually weren’t planning to hand this project to just one team at first. But Mr. Reed personally vouched for you, and he said if Ms. Davis’s miracle drug is that impressive, it’s better to give you folks a bit more time to perfect it, rather than splitting it up.”
He paused, then added, “The military folks over at Harrisburg also backed you up—they trust in your abilities. So we figured, why not just make it official?”
Walter Wilson couldn’t help but light up with surprise. He’d come here thinking that landing even one or two research contracts would be a win. But this? This was way beyond what he’d dared hope for.
Camila Davis was equally stunned—and more than a little flattered.
“Thank you both for your trust,” she said, a bit breathless. “We’ll give it everything we’ve got. I promise you’ll be happy with the results.”
Mr. Mark smiled knowingly. What he didn’t say was that, besides Harrisburg’s endorsement, even the top brass at Central Command had insisted the project go to her. People might underestimate Camila because she seemed gentle and unassuming, but she had serious talent—and, apparently, some serious connections, too. No wonder both directors had been so courteous from the start.
Dinner was a lively affair, full of laughter and easy conversation. Everyone left the table in high spirits.
“Why don’t we all go grab a drink somewhere else?” Walter suggested as the meal wrapped up.
The two directors readily agreed—they were clearly interested in staying on good terms.
Camila, however, was feeling a little overwhelmed. And, honestly, she wasn’t keen on tagging along as the only woman in a group of men out on the town. She decided to leave the hosting to Walter.
Walter offered to have his driver take her back to her hotel, but she shook her head.
“I’ll just grab a cab later,” she said. “I could use a little walk to work off all that steak and pie.”
Walter looked uncertain. “Are you sure? It’s getting late.”
Camila laughed. “Relax, I’m not a kid. I can take care of myself. You go on—make sure our guests have a good time.”
He hesitated, then relented. “Alright, but don’t wander around too long. Call me if you need anything, okay?”


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