Chapter 117

“Harvey, I understand,” Irene said eagerly. “You’re offering Stevens Corporation a share of this lucrative project, correct?”

Harvey smiled. “Precisely, Mrs. Stevens. But not a small slice—I’m offering a full third of the development rights. Once the paperwork is finalized, you and Leroy could transform a few hundred thousand dollars into millions, perhaps even tens of millions.”

Irene and Leroy’s eyes gleamed with excitement.

“There’s a major development project planned,” Christina remarked thoughtfully. “But no official documentation exists yet. How did you learn it’s on the East Side?”

Harvey flashed a confident smile. “Christie, this is the difference between old money and smaller businesses. Our family executives confirmed this directly with state officials two weeks ago.”

Christina fell silent, acknowledging the Weller family’s superior connections.

“Take your time to consider it,” Harvey continued smoothly. “While not a fortune for us, it’s a substantial investment opportunity.”

“A few hundred million might be pocket change for you, Harvey,” Irene said eagerly, wringing her hands, “but for us, that’s serious money.”

Harvey nodded, pleased with their reaction. An amused chuckle interrupted the excited atmosphere.

“What’s so funny, Andrew?” Irene’s smile vanished.

“Nothing,” Andrew replied. “I’m simply amazed at how tempting Harvey’s empty promises sound.”

“You think I’m bluffing?” Harvey sneered.

“Not bluffing, but fabricating,” Andrew stated. “The East Side isn’t scheduled for any development.”

Harvey dismissed him with a shake of his head. “We’ve seen the confidential documents. Don’t pretend to understand matters beyond your purview, Andrew.”

“Is that so?” Andrew smiled. “Then why does my information from Mr. Thatcher contradict your claim?”

Harvey mocked, “Even if Mr. Thatcher leaked classified information—which I doubt—do you think your secondhand gossip is more reliable than my inside connections?”

“Andrew, do you have a problem?” Irene snapped. “Harvey, don’t waste time on this nobody. He’s not in our league.”

Harvey waved dismissively. “Don’t worry, Mrs. Stevens. If Stevens Corporation is interested, I suggest acting quickly. The official announcement is imminent.”

“Harvey, darling, I’m your future mother-in-law,” Irene interjected eagerly. “I’ll invest $750,000. You better turn that into $15 million for me.”

“Harvey, my man!” Leroy chimed in. “I can only contribute $150,000, but I’ll sign over my property as collateral. You’ve got to get me a few million in return!”

Harvey laughed. “Mrs. Stevens, $15 million might be a stretch, but Leroy’s request is feasible.”

He turned to Christina with an expectant smile. “What about you, Christie? Are you ready to make Stevens Corporation some serious money?”