Chapter 63

Author's POV The sealed bidding results were announced Tuesday afternoon in the vast marble atrium of City Hall. Representatives from all major development companies sat in tense silence as Commissioner Andrews approached the podium. "After careful consideration of all submitted proposals," the Commissioner announced with practiced formality, "the West City redevelopment contract is hereby awarded to Wilson Corporation, with their bid of $327 million." A collective gasp rippled through the Blackwood contingent. Several members of Ryan's executive team exchanged worried glances.The project they had spent months preparing for—gone. Ryan Blackwood maintained his perfect poker face, betraying nothing as Wilson's team erupted in celebration across the hall. Mr. Wilson himself made a show of victory, pumping hands with anyone within reach. When his gaze briefly met Ryan's across the room, his smug satisfaction was unmistakable. Back at Blackwood Enterprises, the news spread like wildfire.Whi