When Garrett presented the Harbor Point waterfront project to major investors at Armitage Tower, Malcolm Reeves saw his chance to strike. Malcolm had lost several bids to Garrett and was determined to win this one.
During the meeting, Malcolm stood and addressed Franklin Bishop, the senior investor. “Before you trust Garrett Sullivan with this project,” he said, “you should know his marriage started as a financial arrangement.”
The room grew quiet. Harper felt her stomach tighten.
Garrett did not look at Malcolm. He looked directly at Franklin Bishop. “What Mr. Reeves said about how my marriage began is true,” he said clearly.
Harper’s heart pounded.
“It started as a deal,” Garrett continued. “My company needed stability, and her family needed protection. I treated marriage like a contract.”
He turned to Harper, and his voice softened. “I have apologized to my wife before, and I will say it again. I was wrong.”
He faced the investors once more. “What began as strategy became something real. Harper stood by me when my reputation was questioned. She believed in me when I doubted myself.”
Malcolm shifted in his seat, clearly uncomfortable.