FATE'S SECOND CHANCES

Chapter 1

East got up extra early and dressed carefully in a deep charcoal grey suit and light blue dress shirt with a red pin striped tie. He had an early meeting with the Whitman's to have a light discussion on their project. East had also come well prepared with his design and conceptualization. A billion dollar office building and shopping complex right in the heart of the city. The Whitman Group of Companies known for big projects all around the world was the reason why East accepted this deal. This project another big challenge for him.

East drove to his meeting seeing the scenery of Boston. Loving the lush trees, the trimmed lawns and the beauty of the flowers in all sorts of colors. It was spring and it was a sight to behold. It somehow eased his frayed nerves puzzled why he was feeling that way. It was as if he had not done mega projects before. He turned on his stereo instead his fingers thumping in rhythm to the fast beat. Whatever worries he had would soon disappear once they start with the meeting. East thought positively to himself.

The Whitman Office Building was a breath taking sky scraper by itself. It boast of almost 70 floors its facade ultra modern with all state of the art amenities. The Tuscany Project which they would soon build was even more imposing an office building with 100 floors and a connecting bridge way shopping complex with 3 clusters all interconnected with never before seen architectural design. What was even more special about the project was the location right in the bustle of the city enticing commercial and business entrepreneurs alike.

East was early as he was easily escorted to the conference room. He felt that frayed nerves again feeling uptight. Relax East he scolded himself. He had always exuded confidence and right now he was getting the cold feet like some novice architect. He should have nothing to fear.

Ken Whitman entered, he was the President and CEO of Whitman Companies. He had hand picked him among his other renowned counterparts. Ken Whitman knew his capabilities. He was also aware of his credentials what he was capable of accomplishing. East could only want to be part of this masterpiece. The big offer was just the icing on the cake

Being an architect was a passion for East. He thrived on it. He would put his heart and soul into Tuscany see to it's completion and glory.

Good morning sir. East said shaking his hand firmly. He liked the man. He was tall, blond haired and heavy set. Though formidable as he may seem he could see the gentleness in his hazel eyes and yet commanded respect in everything he did.

How was the travel East? I know traffic can be so difficult in the interstate. Not to mention driving for 8 hours.

East gave a knowing smile. But surprisingly it was pretty light yesterday. Pretty good sir. Glad to be in Boston and working for you sir.

Son the pleasure is all mine. I love your work East. The building you had made in New York has been doing wonders for the city and your splendid work does not stop there. Even the showpiece building in Philadelphia.

East could only turn a little bit red with all his compliments giving an embarrassed laugh.

Thank you sir for your confidence in me. We will do the same for Tuscany and so much more. Another earth shaking project of The Whitman Companies. East said confidently

That's my boy. Then I guess it's not a wonder now why I chose you East Kelly. Welcome to the company.

This time East smiled fully. This was were he belonged now. A new facet in his career. Seeing the finish of Tuscany till the end. East felt on high enjoying deep inside the compliments of Ken Whitman. How he had admired his work was something he was proud of. He felt happy and relaxed as they talked lightly over a cup of coffee and Danish toast that Ken Whitman offered him.