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are two more spaces available.”
    Perfect. This was better than she’d hoped for when she’d taken the discussion off topic. A field trip would change the current dynamic and, she hoped, get the negotiations flowing again.
    “Gracious, right here in the hotel? Can we go see the space? After the long flight yesterday and sitting most of the morning I’m a bit stiff and would welcome a chance to stretch my legs.”
    “Ms. Jones—”
    Savannah turned so only Rick could see her and silently mouthed, “We’re losing him.” Aloud, she said, “I know we have an appointment with the property manager later, but I’m sure Albert will be an excellent guide.”
    “Splendid idea. It would be my pleasure.” Crosse talked right over Rick’s objections. “I’ll have the property manager meet us there. I was scheduled to inspect the conversions today, but agreed to take this meeting instead.”
    “Will we have an opportunity to finish our meeting?” Rick asked as everyone stood.
    “I have some thinking to do tonight,” Crosse advised him stiffly. “I’ll have my assistant call you with a time for tomorrow.”
    When they reached the lobby, Crosse stopped to talk briefly with his sons who were taking this opportunity to break away.
    “What do you think you’re doing?” Rick demanded, pulling Savannah aside.
    “We were losing him.” She moved to watch the Crosses so Albert couldn’t walk up on their conversation. “We needed a distraction.”
    “That’s ludicrous.” He dismissed her claim. “This is a solid proposition.”
    “Yes, but he was already sold on the numbers—you sold him on those before. And then you chose to go with someone else. Now he’s wondering what’s to keep you from jumping again if a better deal comes along.”
    “Sullivans’ Jewels has a solid reputation. And we made concessions.”
    “On paper.” How could such a brilliant man be so dense? “You are an exceptional business strategist, but in this instance you need to read the man. It’s a matterof loyalty, of pride. Think how you’d feel if the situation were reversed.”
    He frowned, but she’d caught his attention. Seeing Crosse’s conversation was breaking up, she stepped closer to Rick and lowered her voice. “You said I relate to everyone. Well, trust me on this. Let him know he can trust you.” Hooking her arm through his, she turned him toward Crosse. “And when we tour the space, don’t bring up the deal. Business is fine but stay away from anything personal. Connect with him on another level.”
    She felt him stiffen before pulling away. “I think I know how to conduct myself with a business colleague.”
    “Of course.” She stepped away, feeling awkward. What had she been thinking linking arms with him like that? She was his assistant, not his girlfriend. “Sorry. Go do your magic.”
     
    Rick hated to admit it, but Savannah was right.
    A good thing for her, because if she’d blown this deal she’d be gone, promise to Gram or no promise.
    He’d known Crosse was antsy. Yet, instead of stopping to think it through and adapt to the situation, he’d let the man’s stoic response cause him to push harder.
    Rick didn’t like being in this position. He was used to being the one making decisions, not the one waiting for the nod.
    But more importantly, Savannah had hit the biggest issue on the mark. If the situation were reversed he’d want more than facts and figures thrown at him.Despite any concessions tossed his way, he’d want to know Sullivans’ Jewels was more than a second choice. After all, they weren’t just talking about the lease of space; they were talking about partnering brands to broaden their demographics.
    The insight made him stop and question himself. Had his goal become more important than the process? Was he rushing his decisions to meet his self-imposed deadline? If that were the case, he needed to stop now and reassess.
    He kept his mind open to the possibilities as they toured the