James Carter, who had shot to his feet, slowly sank back into his seat. The meeting with John was pivotal. It could determine the long-term growth of Carter Corporation overseas. Plus, John was a moving target, making it nearly impossible to pin him down for a meeting. Postponing for another six months would only complicate matters further. James had to swallow his frustration and stick to the plan to meet with John. John was a wiry, polished man with piercing ice-blue eyes that seemed to see right through you. James straightened his suit and made his way to the conference room to greet him. Both men were titans in the corporate world, and if they could strike a deal, the rewards for their corporations would be immense. "James, it's been too long," John said, rising from his seat as

