“Ah,” Manny blurted before realizing his reaction was inappropriate. He quickly put on a smile instead. “That’s true. We already worked out almost everything. It’s the same no matter who takes over. The next step was simply signing the contract.”

He stood up and extended his hand. Elliott rose as well, and the two shook hands.

Manny smiled. “Pleasure working with you, Mr. Durham.”

“The pleasure is mine.”

After the handshake, they both sat back down.

Misty served a freshly brewed pot of tea.