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“Are you suggesting a bribe?”

“Call it whatever you like,” Paul said “I needspot in the Mews Let’s make this as easy as possible for both of us Name your price”

“Paul,” Mindy said slowly “This is not about money”

“Everything is about money It’s all about numbers”

“In your world, maybe But not in One Fifth,” Mindy said in hera historical land money can’t buy”

Paul remained impassive “I paid twenty million dollars for that apartment,” he said “So you will approve ain and stood up

“No,” Mindy said “I will not” She stood up as well

“In that case,” Paul said, taking a step closer, “it’s war”

Mindy gasped involuntarily She knew she should have sent the Rices the official letter denying the air conditioners weeks ago, when they’d first presented their plans for the renovation, but she’d liked having an excuse to talk about so with Paul when she ran into hiame was supposed to play out “Excuseme?”

“I never threaten anyone, Mrs Gooch,” Paul said, emotionless “I merely state the facts If you don’t approve my air conditioners, it’s war And I in”

10

“Look,” Enid Merle said the next afternoon “Schiffer Diamond’s new TV series premiered with a two point oh share And four million viewers”

“Is that good?” Philip asked

“It’s the highest cable opening in history”

“Oh, Nini,” Philip said “Why do you pay attention to these things?”