The next morning, J. City Hall buzzed like a hive.
Cameras flashed. Executives in crisp suits jostled at the entrance. Every major company in the region had come for one reason—the industrial park project worth billions.
I stood beside Dad, watching him fuss with his tie for the tenth time.
“Anna, is the bidding document ready?” Dad asked, his voice tight.
Anna’s face was calm. “Yes, Dad. Everything’s ready. We’ve double-checked it.”
I smiled quietly.
“Relax, Dad. I already spoke to Scot Veyron. This project…” I tapped the folder lightly, “is basically ours.”
Dad exhaled, but tension still lingered in his shoulders.
“I know you’re capable, Nathaniel,” he said. “But every top company in J. City is here. We can’t slip up even a little. Stay focused.”
Before I could reply, a laugh cu
