”“You don’t want a second-floor office?” Elyse asked.“It doesn’t matter to me one way or the other. I guess the only concern would be Penn....”“She’s going to be an issue no matter what configuration we come up with,” Dave said.“True. Jackie, what do you think?”“If Lisa provides the as-built blueprints, we can do a couple of alternate floor plans. Besides Dave’s team, and the whole Steve/Penny thing, are there any specific requests?”“Efficient use of space,” Elyse said. “And I’d like to have my. "You are the Sultan. You must be the last to enter."A feast had been whipped up by the Jann to celebrate the arrival of Sheikha Hawaa binti al-Si'lat. After the feast, Kyle would discuss the terms for the Si'lat's alliance. He would have preferred a simple dinner to talk with the beautiful woman, but these Djinn loved their ceremony and proprieties."I'm with Kyle, let's go in there and eat! I'm starving!" Fatima moaned."When are you not starving, Mistress," Ann laughed, throwing her pale arms. Of course, they must be returned a week from Monday morning in the same condition as when they leave this house, unless other arrangements are made. As usual, the contest participants will be standing in review as you go into the house and will be available for inspection during the casino gambling. Please examine them carefully as to place better bets.”So, this is a serious auction, Derek thought.Thia’s face flushed.“Worried?” he asked.“It’s a real slave auction,” she whispered. “I thought. ” I saw him wink at Chris and smile. “I’m sitting here counting and I think there might have been eight guys.” Chris shook his head and laughed. He made like he was going to get up, “If this is the way this is going, I may need a stronger drink.”Hein waved him down. “Relax …” He turned to me. His eyes studied me and I blushed. I know I did. But, this was different. It wasn’t my exposure to him that he was taking advantage of. It was as if he was looking through my eyes into my soul. “You ….