Chapter 19
The second day of negotiations, and Zoe was feeling both great and drained. It was difficult not to be on top of the world after falling asleep in the arms of Archer Blackwood and waking up from a deep sleep by his hands roaming her body. It beat her alarm clock hands down.
But Archer didn’t stay for coffee. After a look at his phone, the cold returned, and he was off before any act of domesticity could take place. Zoe was torn but accepted it. What was shared last night was unique, and couldn’t survive daylight. He didn’t want a relationship, and even if he was so inclined, she was being forced into being a double agent. A traitor.
That very word made her sick, but she couldn’t help it. Lucas’s survival was on the line.
The second venue, with Anton Vasiliev this time, was at his hotel, The Langham. Somehow, Zoe thought it suited Vasiliev’s over-the-top personality. On the other hand, it meant that Finch would be present. A lot relied on her ability to stay in control of her emotions. If she showed any weakness to that monster, Zoe feared what would happen. Maybe it was the reason why she chose a dark burgundy power suit with a buttoned-up black blouse and matching pumps.
Another chauffeur picked her up, one she didn’t know, but a quick call from Lance confirmed his presence and it reassured her. When he dropped her off at The Langham, Lance was waiting for her on the sidewalk. As instructed by Ellen, she was to be by Archer’s side this time, as it was only a meeting with the four of them.
Zoe wondered why Ellen wasn’t there After all, she was much more knowledgeable about the process. As they entered the elevator, she couldn’t help but ask the question.
Lance shrugged. “From what I learned this morning, Ellen was under the weather, as the Brits say. Archer requested you attend and take notes.”
Zoe nodded and drew a steadying breath as they reached their floor. Vasiliev had organized the meeting room this time, and that was probably one of the reasons they hadn’t planned for a side booth for her. Archer being a control freak, he would have obviously requested her presence, if Vasiliev started using Russian for any reason.
Lance led her to the end of the corridor and knocked on the door. Anton Vasiliev opened the door himself, an immense smile on his face. “Miss Somersby! Such a sight! How beautiful!”
He took her hands and kissed each of them. His exuberance was amusing. “You’re too kind, Mr. Vasiliev.”
The older man beamed at her and hooked her arm with his, leading her in. The room was vast, opening onto a living room. There was a vast terrace beyond huge windows. The room was luxurious, all in pale cream with gold and mahogany accents. The carpets felt plush and the whole area, although posh, had a very comfortable ambiance. The furniture had obviously been rearranged to create a more relaxed meeting corner.
“Would you like something to drink, Miss Somersby? Tea, coffee? Something stronger?”
“Tea would be lovely. Thank you.”
Vasiliev went to a small area where a cart had been brought in. On it, there were several thermos pots, and plates with pastries and sandwiches. He poured the tea himself and handed a delicate cup and saucer to her.
Surprisingly, Vasiliev took one too, and invited her to follow him to the terrace. The sun was high and warm, with a soft wind blowing over the city. The view was magnificent, and despite everything that was happening, Zoe was feeling more and more comfortable with Chicago.
“Beautiful, isn’t it?”
Zoe took a sip before answering. “Yes. I’ve traveled the world and it’s my first time in this city. I think what makes it so appealing is the energy. It’s a vibrant city.”
“Da, you’re right. But the people are fascinating too.”
The look he gave her was full of mischief and Zoe giggled. “Are you flirting with me, Mr. Vasiliev.”
The man smiled. “My wife wouldn’t be happy with me if I did. Don’t worry about your virtue, I would never cross a man like Archer Blackwood. To be honest, I fear my lovely Maria much more than I do your boss. Believe me.”
Zoe opened her mouth to protest and then closed it. At her reaction, Vasiliev chuckled. “I’ve traded with Blackwood several times before and it’s the first time he’s had any reaction to anybody for that matter. I noticed it when you came out of the conference room, escorted by Jamieson. There was no doubt at that moment that you have more power over him than I realized Jamieson is courageous or more of a fool than I thought.”
At his name, Zoe couldn’t help but dig a little deeper. In her mind, any information may give her the key to her freedom. “That means that Mr. Finch is not a long-time partner of yours.”
The Russian shook his head. “No, for this venture only.”
“Well, I guess you would need all the help you can get to win this negotiation with Mr. Blackwood. Nobody can have too much oil and gas.”
Vasiliev laughed. “Well, I don’t know yet. This would be my first oil operation. When I win this bid, of course.”
“Of course.” It was hard not to admire his confidence.
“Jamieson Finch is a renowned businessman with a flair for opportunities. It wasn’t difficult to convince me to bid. It’s a bonus that he agreed to be my advisor in this venture.”
“Mr. Vasiliev...”
“Please, call me Anton. In this beautiful day, it would be a shame being so formal.”
