Read Online Redesigned by Denise Grover Swank - Free Book Online Page B

plan to stare at the wall the rest of the meeting?”
    Shit .
    I clear my throat to give myself a moment to recover. Of course he’d call on me during the few moments I became distracted. “I’ve gotten bids from two companies for runways. We’ve used a carpet on the floor before, but our attendance has always been on the skimpy side. With the extra media and marketing push”—I glance at Wendy—“I expect we’ll see a marked increase in attendance. I think we should move up to an elevated stage so the audience will be able to see the models.”
    The group nods but Reed frowns. “And what is the increase in cost?”
    “Several thousand dollars but—”
    “Do you make a habit of spending other people’s money so freely?”
    My mouth drops. I quickly close it as I push down my billowing anger. I refuse to lose my cool this time. “I haven’t spent anyone’s money, Mr. Pendergraft. I’ve merely stated my thoughts on the matter. If you’d let me finish, I will tell you the estimated costs to set up the runway with the elevated stage and without.”
    Reed sits up taller and his chin rises. “Then by all means, continue.”
    I give them the estimated costs from both companies with both options.
    Lexi looks around the table. “It makes sense to go with the elevated stage, if you think about it.
    And with Wendy using graphic design students for the logo and banners, we’ll save money that we can use for the venue.” She glances back at Reed, as though she’s trying to convince him. “Since the Monroe Foundation has lent us their name and money, we need to make sure our presentation is quality.”
    He merely stares at her with his expressionless face.
    Surprisingly enough, Reed calls for a vote—score one for democracy—and the outcome is unanimous to go with the elevated stage and with the higher bid because that bidder’s stage seemed to be better constructed. Reed abstains from voting since he’s the head and the designated tiebreaker.
    I’m partially surprised he didn’t overrule the vote anyway.
    Before he dismisses the meeting, Reed assigns more tasks and announces we’ll meet on Friday.
    The words have barely left his mouth, and he’s immediately up and out the door. I suspect he doesn’t want a repeat of our last meeting.
    Greg doesn’t waste time following Reed out of the room. I’m sure he’s wondering how he got stuck in this sea of estrogen. Megan and Renee fall into step with Wendy as they leave the room discussing ideas they have to get the word out on campus.
    Lexi stands next to her seat, waiting for me. “As I mentioned, tomorrow I’m going to see the director of the Middle Tennessee Children’s Charity.” She pauses. “I was wondering if you’d like to go with me?”
    “Sure, but why me?”
    She tilts her head with a half-shrug. “You just seem like you’d have an affinity toward the organization.”
    My heart stutters. Does Lexi know about my past? How could she?
    She must see my momentary shock. “It’s just that with your hybrid designs, it’s something underprivileged girls could do to spiff up their own wardrobes.”
    Instead of making me feel better, her assessment hits too close to home.
    She senses my hesitation. “It will look great on your resume if you have direct involvement with the organization.”
    I doubt this is true, but Lexi really wants me to go with her. Everything in me screams to tell her no, but I can’t bring myself to do it. “Okay, what time is the meeting?”
    Her face lights up with excitement. “Tomorrow at four. Can you get away then?”
    I nod. “I have an open lab tomorrow, but I can get away.” Especially since I haven’t come up with any designs to work on.
    “Great! How about we meet at the statue of Andrew Jackson at the edge of the west student parking lot, at three forty-five. We can go together.”
    “Sure.”
    “About last night.” She pauses. “I know I’m too dependent on my family.”
    I shake my head. What had I