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Graham lifted both arms and raked his fingers through his hair. “What am I going to do? This account is very important.”
“One of the things I ask clients before planning a party is about their likes and dislikes. Have you researched these people to find out their interests?”
He nodded. “I didn’t learn much.”
“There was nothing about what organizations they support?”
“Well, I did find this.” He opened his laptop and started typing. It took him a moment. “Here it is.”
She accepted the laptop from him and started to read. A few minutes later, she said, “This is great.”
“How do you get that?”
“It says that Mrs. Cortinas is a proud sponsor of the arts.”
“And...” His dark brows knitted together in confusion. “You want me to make a donation to one of her causes?”
Alina shook her head. “Let me think on it and I’ll get back to you.”
“On what? The party? But you said it was too late.”
“I didn’t say it was too late. I said most places will already be reserved. So we’ll have to think of someplace less traditional. And it’ll have to accommodate artwork because if the wife is impressed, she’ll make sure the husband gives your presentation more attention.”
“I hear you,” he said. “But it’s not going to work.”
“But why? Are you afraid they’ll learn you’re a grinch?”
“I am not.”
She crossed her arms and arched a brow. “Remember, I’ve been to your office. I know it’s devoid of decorations.”
“My father didn’t believe in wasting the time and money on decorations when everyone was supposed to be there to work, not to have a party.”
“I hope you don’t mind me saying that your father was way too serious.”
“How could I mind when I agree with you?”
“You do?” When he sent her a crooked smile and nodded, her heart fluttered. Refusing to let him see how he affected her, she turned her attention back to the laptop.
“I found another article that says the Cortinas decorate their home for the holidays.” She followed the link he gave her. “Here. See.”
He leaned over to look at the monitor. In the process, he grabbed the other chair and pulled it up next to hers. She pretended like his closeness didn’t bother her as she clicked through the online photos. But her heart was pitter-pattering as her pulse raced. She had to think about something other than the way his shoulder was brushing against hers.
“Do you see all of the artwork on the walls?”
“I do. But how does knowing she likes artwork help us?”
“Those pieces aren’t classic pieces of art. I’m not an expert, but I’m thinking those were all created by up-and-coming artists.”
“And that helps us how?”
“I don’t know yet. Let me think about it.”
He sat back. “Alina, this isn’t your problem. I don’t expect you to fix it.”
Alina glanced at the time on the monitor. “I have to go.”
“Already? But you just got here. You haven’t even had time to eat or rest.”
