Swimming with Sharks Read Free Page A

arrived at the penthouse at nine thirty. It never ceased to surprise her how extravagantly people lived in New York when they had the means. About two hundred guests were spread over five thousand square feet of luxury, sitting or standing in small groups, having a great time. Zack approached her with open arms, a broad grin, and a thick Cohiba cigar between his fingers. He welcomed her warmly, admiringly eyeing her dress and her lean, shapely legs. Then he showed her off to a few very important people.
    The complete LMI board of directors was of course present, together with their wives, but also a diverse group of others: lawyers, brokers, analysts, and—of course—investment bankers from other firms. Alex’s initial inhibition quickly disappeared after she realized how easily she was accepted into this illustrious circle. It felt like everyone was competing to speak with her. Zack reappeared at one point, just as she was absorbed in a discussion with Kwai and Weinberg.
    “Sorry to interrupt,” Zack said as he took Alex by the arm. “I’ll bring her back in a minute.”
    “What’s going on?” Alex asked in surprise.
    “Come with me,” Zack whispered with a mysterious grin on his face. “There’s a very powerful man you should meet.”
    She was curious as she followed him through the maze of the penthouse and up to the sprawling rooftop terrace. A few men sat laughing together in comfortable rattan armchairs, drinking cognac, smoking the Cohibas that were offered in every room. Just as Alex stepped onto the terrace, one of the men turned around and their eyes met. The laugh on the dark-haired man’s face faded. He placed his glass on the low table and stood up.
    “Who’s that?” Alex whispered into Zack’s ear.
    “Sergio Vitali. You’ve heard of him before, right?”
    Of course she had. Everyone in New York City knew Sergio Vitali. His face was shown often enough on television and in the newspapers. He was one of the most powerful people in town—a billionaire real-estate tycoon, if the press was to be believed. He made regular headlines for his large donations to social institutions and presence at the glamorous benefits and banquets of New York’s high society, where the most important deals were made. Sergio Vitali was a poster child for American business. According to
Forbes,
he was among the richest individuals in the United States. Half of Manhattan belonged to him. Vitali also owned hotel chains and casinos in Las Vegas, Reno, Atlantic City, and Miami. He ruled over a corporate conglomerate and traveled in his own private Learjets.
    “Alex,” Zack said, “may I introduce you to Mr. Sergio Vitali? Mr. Vitali, this is Alex Sontheim, head of the M&A department at LMI.”
    “I’ve already heard so much about you.” Vitali’s voice was pleasant, cultivated. “I’m delighted to finally meet you in person. Your excellent reputation precedes you, but no one warned me you were also an exceptionally beautiful woman.”
    Alex laughed in embarrassment and reached for his extended hand. His handshake was firm and warm. His touch ignited a fire in her that quickly spread throughout her entire body. She had never met a man with such strong sensuality. The attraction she felt confused her—it was irritating and deeply frightening. She preferred to have everything under control at all times.
    “The pleasure is all mine,” she responded, hiding her attraction behind a cool smile. No doubt, Sergio Vitali was the most attractive man she had ever met. His thick, black hair—graying at the temples—and the subtle wrinkles around his mouth and the corners of his eyes gave special character to his striking face. His profile was like a Roman statue. With this unforgettable face, he could have had a career in Hollywood. Yet, his steel-blue eyes were his most remarkable feature. Before they couldexchange another word, Zack positioned himself in the widely opened terrace doors, clapped his hands, and asked his