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That’s not how I live or how I’m used to living.
We need to be mindful of the environment, and his disregard for repurposing good wood is a shock.
Hugh comes into my office and sits on the side of my desk. “What ideas do you have for the Manhattan Beach project?”
I push up from my chair. “Do you want to discuss it over coffee?”
He agrees, so we take the elevator to the ground level and cross the street to the café. I take a seat while Hugh orders our lattes.
I open my cell and send Franklin a text.
When can I contact the tradesmen to start on your home?
Hugh returns and sits beside me. “Ready to brainstorm?”
“I’m already looking into environmental-friendly ideas for Franklin’s house. We could carry through the same ideas into this project.”
“I want to ask what ideas only I’m nervous about mixing a work contract with a personal one.”
“I’m not doing anything that could bring Style Line Designs into disrepute.”
Our coffees are delivered, and Hugh waits until the server leaves before speaking. Most of our office comes here for lunch, and we never know if the staff is friendly with our boss.
“I know. Only if she hears you have taken on a private role instead of telling a client to go through the company, she may cause problems for you.”
I take a sip of coffee and wonder why he is worried about this now. He’s known about the project for weeks, but now he’s seen the budget.
Why would she be upset when it’s weekend work?
“We don’t work weekends for Courtney.”
“Have you ever asked yourself why it’s only weekends, Pen?” Hugh’s expression is almost sad.
“What are you implying?” I take a sip of coffee to calm me as I know exactly where this is going.
“How did Franklin find your work? Did you show him your portfolio?”
“Okay, stop there. I know you’re looking out for me but don’t question my creditability. You only have the right to do that if the contract is complete and not up to scratch.”
Hugh nods. “My apologies. Just be careful, okay? Men like him are used to buying things they want, even women.”
“Thanks, but Franklin’s not like that.”
He takes a sip from his mug and then wipes the froth from his lips. “Iamcurious about your ideas for the Manhattan Beach project.”
I smile at him because I’m eager to chat about it. As much as his offhanded comment annoys me, he would do anything to protect me. “What do you think about using biodegradable and natural materials?”
His eyebrows arch high into his forehead. “Tell me more.”
“An outdoor living area using recycled materials and a green roof that can help with insulation. We could source artwork from local artists or use recycled or sustainable materials, keeping it unique and classy.”
“I understand what you want to do because these are your values, but we must be careful when clients want lux living.”
“We can also do that with the environment.”
He takes another sip. “Right. We might need to negotiate some things because Courtney will never go for it. Let’s focus on the job at hand.”
“Fine. But I’m researching environment-friendly products for Franklin, so it’s no effort to do the same for this project.”
