The Billionaire's Intern (Maya Thompson) novel Chapter 145

Chapter 72: The Price of His Presence-2

And last to enter was James.

Clain

Earlier, before the team had dispersed, Damien had given James a direct order: attend the contract meeting.

Damien had made it clear-he wanted him there. No room for negotiation.

Eyes on Ethan. Every move. Every word. No detail too small.

Whatever Ethan was here for, Damien wasn’t about to take chances-not when something already felt off. He wanted a close eye in the room for any surprises.

The glass doors slid shut behind them with a quiet hiss.

Inside the sleek conference room, the polished mahogany table gleamed under the soft overhead lights. Ethan’s manager-a sharp-faced woman in a tailored suit-placed a leather portfolio on the table and began laying out the final details of the contract.

Trina stayed poised, tablet in hand, her eyes flicking between the screen and the faces around her, Mary and Aimee sat nearby, ready to answer questions about budget, compliance, and HR protocols.

James sat beside her, silent but watchful, his presence a subtle reminder that this was no ordinary meeting.

Ethan’s easy charm was still there, but now a flicker of something sharper-guarded, maybe even wary-peeked through his practiced smile.

“So? Let’s get all the paperwork out of the way. I’m excited to begin!” Ethan said smoothly,’ the campaign dates are set for the third week of August, right?”

“Yes,” Trina confirmed. “Third week of August is our target launch date. The island’s best spots-from the Garden Pavilion to the beach cliffs and the private yacht. We want to showcase every stunning aspect of Isla Aurelia.”

Mary chimed in, “All models and staff will adhere to our wellness and safety protocols. Any dietary restrictions or medical concerns must be flagged in advance.”

Ethan nodded, flipping through the contract. “Understood. No issues there.”

Aimee spoke up, “Mr. Miller, I understand you made changes to the contract just minutes ago. I am looking at the copy now, and it appears there’s a mistake with your contract. It says here that you’re giving 100% full endorsement rights exclusivity during the campaign period

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to Blackwood Enterprises and besides full accommodation and food, you’re not asking for any fee.”

Ethan’s manager interjected, “That is correct. Initially, Mr. Miller’s fee was 50% of his normal fee for photoshoots. But, during breakfast, he wanted me to change it and do this campaign at no cost.”

“That’s right, I didn’t expect to see a Maya, even more I will get the chance to work closely with her. I’m already happy with that; I don’t need the money. The opportunity to spend time with Maya again after so many years is enough.”

James’s gaze sharpened as he interrupted, “Mr. Miller, Blackwood Enterprises doesn’t do handouts or charity work when it comes to business deals. Money is not an issue when it comes to worthwhile business dealings. And this campaign is one of the newest Crown Jewels of the company.”

Ethan responded, “I know, please don’t get me wrong Mr. Horton, but I am not underestimating the capability of Blackwood Enterprises to pay. It is my personal decision to not charge anything. In fact, I owe you guys even. You’ve given me the opportunity I never thought I’d still have.”

James interjected, “That’s sentimental, but we don’t use emotions when doing business. If this is your choice, that’s fine. But I want to make it clear that our staff is not obliged to provide you with any services, time or energy outside their assigned tasks-especially Ms. Maya Thompson. I understand that you’re acquainted with her, but she is not and will never be part of this contract. I want to make it clear and make sure that you understand that Ms. Thompson is only obliged to perform her duties assigned to her as Special Events coordinator. You cannot bother her for non-work related stuff while on the clock, especially when off the clock. Are we clear?”

The room fell silent. The air became tense.

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