The Grey Stone Conspiracy

By W. Scott Mitchell

The Grey Stone Conspiracy opens with what a reader might assume is a typical office romance. Beyond the obvious interpretation of a love story, lies a subplot that depicts the less than noble practices in the world of business. Mitchell lays the groundwork for a plan of investor fraud and manipulation, which is discovered through the relationship Karen and Sam are trying to build with each other.

The reader is also given an opportunity to see the reluctance people often experience after being involved in a failed relationship. Sam and Karen are reaching out to each other yet both find grounds for hesitation. Karen’s fear of rejection in conjunction with Sam’s emotional isolation makes their relationship difficult to establish.

Sam and his friend Bobby have stumbled into a world of extortion and corruption that began decades ago in a place far removed from their home in Atlanta. They are forced to take action, which leads them to discover a truth they would rather have not known. With their lives in danger, Sam is forced to discover a rather unpleasant truth about his actions. During a confrontation, he must confront the darker impulses that lurk beneath the surface of his personality.

• Language: English
• Publisher: W. Scott Mitchell
• Release date: Jan 24, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310261947

W. Scott Mitchell

W. Scott Mitchell came of age during the cultural revolution and movements that dominated the 1960's. It was not until the late 1990's when he began to write fiction. He incorporates an aspect of philosophy and psychology into each of his novels. The subplots are discussed on his website for readers to consider as they review his works. He believes the subplot is an important part of the work. Mitchel hopes to attract readers who examine everyday human character as the focus of attention to larger social and personal issues within the subplot. For example, in "Emily's Last Obsession" sexual content is used not for the sake of sexual content, but rather to demonstrate betrayal, self deception, and psychological instability. In the novel "Coincidence by Design", a mystical experience is a tool to examine life after death. If you enjoy a glimpse "into the mind" of the character, then Mitchell offers an interesting opportunity. However, if you are looking for "shoot em up...blow em up" every three pages, then you might want to look elsewhere. "My background allows me to develop characters who must confront issues common to us all. Reflected in my novels are the twists and turns we often take in life. However, the predictability we crave is often missing. I invite you to post your comments and questions on my website at http://wscottmitchell.weebly.com/ or on my Facebook page."

Book preview

The

Grey-Stone

Conspiracy

W. Scott Mitchell

Copyright 2013 by W. Scott Mitchell

Smashwords Edition

Visit the Author online and share your reading experience

http://wscottmitchell.weebly.com/

Table of Contents

Chapter I

Chapter II

Chapter III

Chapter IV

Chapter V

Chapter VI

Chapter VII

Chapter VIII

Chapter IX

Chapter X

Chapter XI

Chapter XII

Chapter XIII

Chapter XIV

Chapter XV

Chapter XVI

Chapter XVII

Chapter XVIII

Other Books by Scott Mitchell

Chapter I

The October morning brought with the rising sun a crisp gentle breeze, which was a welcome relief from the scorching heat of the previous summer. The distant Atlanta skyline appeared as a silhouette against the dim morning light. It was six-thirty in the morning as Sam drove into the parking garage, waving to the attendant before parking his car on the lower level. The parking garage was located next to the eighteen-story Grey-Stone Building in downtown Atlanta.

Looking up and seeing his office on the 14th floor, Sam folded his arms over the steering wheel and stared at the building for a few moments. Without apparent provocation, he leaned forward and hit his head lightly on the steering wheel several times in frustration. He then leaned back in the seat as he continued listening to the morning traffic report on the radio.

Sam sighed quietly as he stepped out of his car. With his briefcase in one hand and car keys in the other, he made his way through the glass-covered breezeway. By the time he reached the main entrance to the Grey-Stone Building, he heard his name called.

Sam turned to see a woman in her early thirties walking quickly towards him through the breezeway. She wore a navy blue coat with her gray skirt and white blouse. Her light brown hair was cut to shoulder length with just a hint of curl. She carried a small brown leather briefcase in her left hand as she clenched her purse and sunglasses in her right hand. Her pace slowed as she neared Sam.

He opened the door for her before making their way to the elevator. Sam was the first to speak and used the opportunity to tease his friend. Karen you look like hell this morning. You should spend a little more time making yourself presentable.

As was typical for Karen, she took his comments in stride. Thank you Sam. It's very kind of you to offer your advice. Most men are not so honest. In fact, most men would have told me I look great, but not you.

As he pushed the elevator button, the brass doors opened immediately. Sam stepped back, allowing her to enter. Still teasing his friend, he offered Karen another backhanded compliment. You really look great this morning. You have your briefcase and your business suit. You look like the modern professional woman.

She accepted his teasing, but replied with a sense of regret, which more accurately reflected her mood. That’s just the point, Sam. I don't want to look like you. I want to wear lace. I want a ribbon in my hair. I want men to notice my legs and not my briefcase.

When the elevator door closed, Sam pushed the button to the 14th floor. It would be hard not to notice your legs.

She continued her previous thought. I want to go home and watch soap operas. I don't want to fight the good fight.

Pull yourself together woman. Sam replied, as the elevator started up.

She playfully glared at him as she offered her protest. I'll bet you a man designed these shoes. My feet hurt, Sam.

He looked at the flashing floor numbers as they started up. Sam’s offered a comment for which he was not expecting a response. Next time, I think I will take the stairs. Do you realize you have a personal crisis every morning?

She continued, choosing to ignore his remark. I want to run barefoot along the beach. I want to drink coffee at a sidewalk cafe in some exotic, romantic place.

He could not help but grin, knowing much of her performance was for his benefit. Are you going to keep this up all day?

She shrugged off his question as she enjoyed taunting Sam. I want to sit in front of a fireplace and talk all night long. I want to dress in warm clothes, walk in the mountains and look at the leaves in the fall. I want romance in my life.

The elevator stopped on the seventh floor. Karen continued her lament. I want to go dancing in Paris.

A gray haired man in his late sixties stepped into the elevator and pushed the button for the eighteenth floor. He was a distinguished looking man whom each of them immediately recognized. He pulled his gold pocket watch from his vest pocket. After opening the watch cover, he looked at the time before returning it. Good morning Sam. Congratulations on closing the Pittsburgh deal yesterday. It was a very profitable venture for all of us.

He turned to Karen and spoke. And good morning to you Miss…

Sam helped George Stone recall Karen’s last name. Johnson.

He then continued his morning greeting. Yes of course. You joined our research staff last April. I hear very favorable reports about you. Did I hear you say you are going to Paris?

Karen looked away for a moment, as she was slightly embarrassed. I would very much like to spend a few days visiting the art museums.

George Stone was somewhat enthusiastic as he considered her idea. You should go to Paris. It is a wonderful place and Helen loves the sidewalk cafes and museums.

George winked at Karen before he continued his suggestion. Take Sam with you and let him spend hours in the art museums.

Sam spoke up as the elevator door opened. If you will excuse us, this is our floor.

Karen and Sam stepped off the elevator. Before the door closed, George asked Sam to stop by his office at ten o'clock.

Walking down the hall to her office, Karen looked at Sam. He heard every word I said? He must think I am the biggest idiot he’s ever hired, doesn’t he?

Not the biggest idiot, because you seem to forget he hired me. By the way, are you and I are still meeting at eleven o’clock in my office? Sam asked as they walked down the hall.

She replied with her own playful sarcasm directed at Sam. I just live for the opportunity to meet with you.

He worked until it was time for his ten o'clock appointment with George. Sam took the stairs to the 18th floor, making a token effort at exercise, yet was somewhat out of breath when he arrived at the receptionist’s office. George’s secretary handed Sam a sealed envelope with his name on it.

Knowing the letter was from Karen and with a sly grin, she handed him the letter. I can’t imagine who might have sent this to you from the research department. It must be critical business information. If you will have a seat Mr. Stone will be with you in a few minutes.

Sam smiled and acknowledged her teasing comment while accepting her insinuation. I’m sure it is strictly business related.

After he sat down, he looked around at the office. It was a plush environment, which was appropriate for a man of George Stone’s position as chief executive officer of Grey-Stone Inc. The solid cherry paneling and black leather chairs added to the professional character of the surroundings. The bookcases were filled with volumes on law and economics.

Sam noticed a confidential marking on the envelope as he opened it with a curious expression on his face. He found a piece of paper with one line printed in the center of the page. I want to chase butterflies through an open field.

A smile instantly came to his face as he read the covert message.

As he opened the letter, he failed to notice that George stood at his office door watching him. I assume from your expression, you must have good news.

Sam quickly folded the letter and put it in his coat pocket before George motioned for him to come into his office.

Time will tell. Sam replied

After George sat at his desk, he began to speak. Sit down Sam. I have no intention of watching you pace around the room while we talk.

Sam took his seat and leaned back fully prepared to listen to his friend and boss. It was typical for George to do most of the talking in their meetings.

Sam, you have put together some great deals and you’ve made a lot of money for yourself and for this organization. I am pleased with your work and so are most of the directors. I thought I should let you know that I am going to leave the company in several months and they are going to fill my position with someone from within the company. There are a few people under consideration and I want to know that you will make a commitment to work with the next CEO.

After a thoughtful pause, Sam offered a qualified answer. Well, I guess that depends on who the new CEO is. You know my contract expires next year. However, if you would like to offer me the CEO's job, then I would be willing to consider it.

George stood up and walked to the bar. That’s not exactly what I had in mind. Would you care for a drink?

Sam turned in his chair as he watched George walk across the room. Yes, I would like a drink, but why can’t I be the President?

Would you take the job if it were offered to you? George asked, knowing Sam had no interest in the position.

Sam answered without a moment of hesitation. Absolutely not. Unlike you, I can’t just sit around your office all day doing nothing.

So you think I sit here making paper airplanes all day? George replied with a smile.

Sam replied while pointing at a golf club and ball behind the door. I was thinking more about the putting green you have in the corner.

George handed him a drink and sat back down at his desk, Perhaps if you were half way competent at the game of golf, you would understand the need to practice.

Sam took the drink and leaned forward. They taught us in school to always let your boss win at golf. I am better at the game than you give me credit for being.

George replied, being unwilling to accept Sam’s proclamation of being a skilled golfer. I have seen third grade school girls using a tennis racket hit a golf ball further than you.

George was ready to move on to other matters. If we can be serious for a moment, we do have a little problem. I sent some information down to you last week and I would assume you have read through it.

Sam sighed with a doubtful expression. Yes sir, I’ve read through it. You know as well as I do that the project is going to be plagued by local resistance, the environmentalist, and the federal regulators, not to mention it’s a stupid idea.

George had an expression of concern as looked out of his window. One of our board members is determined we get involved in this deal. A few Westfield Holdings board members have made this project a top priority for their company. Grey-Stone Inc would have three areas of responsibility. We do land acquisition, infrastructure development and finally, we would need to build a stable full of investors.

Sam leaned forward, perhaps offering a challenge to George. Even if we get the land and infrastructure taken care of, that still leaves the question of finance. We’ve taken care of our investors for a long time and this is not going to be a good investment. It’s not like Grey-Stone Inc. to recommend financial garbage to our clients who have put their trust in us.

George replied with a thoughtful expression. Well, we are going to go through the motions. I don’t disagree with you, but let’s put the facts before Phil Hargrove and let him make that call. It would be much better for me if Hargrove pulled the plug on this thing instead of us backing out.

Sam was curious about George’s comments and was fishing for a possible explanation. Westfield Incorporated has been doing strange things in the last few years.

George looked across the desk at Sam. Let me tell you a little story about that company. Jay Butterfield and Kevin West started the company years ago and everything they touched turned to gold. They were almost too good at what they did. They took the company public and made a fortune. After Westfield Inc. went public, Kevin and Jay controlled about forty percent of the outstanding stock.

There is nothing wrong with that. Sam replied.

George pulled a cigar from the box and lit it. Let me finish. The government came in and started looking over their accounting, which had some major problems. The investigation was kept very quiet for reasons nobody seems to understand. There was talk that a U.S. Senator put pressure on the Securities and Exchange Commission to back off their investigation. After all was said and done, a new board of directors was appointed and Phil Hargrove was made President and CEO. There never was a public disclosure of what happened at the company.

Sam interrupted. But I thought West and Butterfield were still on the board of directors.

George nodded, They are, but they don’t control the board. However, they do have a great deal of influence. Anyway, Phil runs a very clean ship, but some people still question the role of West and Butterfield. A number of Butterfield’s people are still buried deep in the organization’s management structure.

Sam continued to question George. So you’re saying that Phil is trying to clean up the company, but there are still a lot of rats running around?

George puffed on his cigar. Something like that, but you didn’t hear it from me. What I am really saying is watch your ass. You look after Grey-Stone first and then worry about Westfield.

Why don’t we just decline to work on the Mountain Springs project? Sam asked.

George was obviously reluctant to answer. It’s a long story. Let’s just go through the motions and see where it takes us. You can take Jennifer Jordan with you to do the background legal work.

Sam replied as he shook his head. Get with the program, George. Jennifer quit last March.

He acted surprised as he responded to Sam. Well, take whoever took her place. We need a good real estate attorney up there. I want someone with a strong legal background. Who took her place?

Sam looked out the window before he spoke. Karen Johnson.

George pushed his intercom button and spoke, Sandy, have Ms. Johnson from research come to my office right now.

The two men talked about the project until his secretary informed them when Karen had arrived.

As Karen entered the office, she was surprised to see Sam was still there. She was also curious as to why she had been called to the meeting with him.

Ms. Johnson, when you came to this firm, you told me you were ready to hit the ground running. I'm going to send you and Sam out to do field research. He knows all about the project and he needs your help and advice. You'll be flying out in the morning.

Sam stated, shaking his head. Tomorrow is Saturday, George.

George replied with a smile, while glancing at Karen. Well, Sam, were you planning to take the entire weekend off?

Karen looked directly at George as she joined the conversation. Mr. Stone, this is a great opportunity and I am looking forward to it. I think the challenge will be an educational experience.

George looked at Sam while intending to exploit her attitude. I like your attitude. You can teach Sam a great deal about corporate responsibility, Ms. Johnson. By the way, Jennifer Jordan has done some research on this project and I want you to take it home this weekend so you can be familiar with it.

George left the office to get some additional files. When they were alone, Sam glanced at Karen. What were you talking about an educational experience? You can do this kind of work in your sleep.

Before she could answer, George returned to his office. As he sat down Karen did not hesitate before speaking. I've already read Jennifer’s file on the project and it should be no problem picking up where she left off.

You do good work Miss Johnson.

Before George could continue, Karen sat in the seat in next to Sam. She contended, I thought Sam was going to be closing the deal on the White Hurst building in Houston next week.

George placed his hands in the air and replied, Never mind that now, this other project is much more important.

Sam interrupted before George could continue. It’s not more important to me. Houston is my project. I've done a lot of work on it and I already have the buyers ready to close the deal. For all practical purposes the deal is done.

George began to shake his head. We are not going to worry about that now. Turn over your file to Jarvis and let him handle it.

Sam remained concerned. George, this is no small commission you are telling me to give away.

George banged his fist on the desk as he addressed Sam’s concerns. I'll handle it. Now, turn the damn file over to Jarvis. Besides, if you pull off this Spring Mountain deal I don't have to tell you what it will mean to both of you. I’m talking not only in terms of compensation, but also to your futures with this company.

George then turned his attention to Karen. Karen, Sam is a pain to work with. If he gives you any trouble, let me know. I will have Sandy make the reservations and you can leave on Monday. I want these preliminaries finished by October thirty first.

How long are we going to be gone? She asked.

Sam put his hand on his forehead. On and off for a month, if we get lucky.

George looked surprised by her question. Is that a problem?

She replied with a little hesitation. No sir, I'm sure that it will be a great opportunity.

George stood up and walked to the door of his office, signaling the end of the meeting. Sam and Karen took their cue and started for the door.

Sam paused in front of George. I really don't want this project.

As George opened the door, he patted Sam on the back. I know you don't and I'm sure you will do a fine job for us.

Before Karen left George's office, she turned to ask a question. Did you say we were leaving Monday?

Knowing he was taunting Sam, George smiled before he replied. You are absolutely right Ms. Johnson. If you wait until Monday, you will lose a full workday. It would be better if you left Sunday afternoon.

Sam shook his head as he left the office heading for the elevator with Karen at his side. Once they reached the elevator, he paused for a moment and stared at her.

As the elevator door was closing, Karen looked at the buttons while avoiding looking at Sam. Well, it looks like we are going to be working together for a while.

Sam looked at her without responding. She chose to ignore his silence. Teamwork Sam, that’s what it is all about. You and I will be working against the odds.

He continued to stare at her with a blank expression.

She remained oblivious to his silence. Of course a lot of men would be really happy to be working on this project with a girl like me.

Finally, Sam broke his self-imposed silence. A great educational opportunity, a wonderful challenge, and a unique experience?

For a moment the smile left her face as she gave him a less than honest answer. Sam, women have to work harder to get noticed in the corporate world. For all you know, Mr. Stone doesn't even know that I exist.

He stopped to reflect on her comment. I know things are rough for women, but with someone like George Stone, he’ll notice if you do your job well. He doesn't see a person's gender. All he sees are the results.

She had a playful expression as she replied. And what do you see when you look at me? I have a suspicion you might have noticed my gender.

He thought about her comment for a moment, but was unwilling to fall into her trap. I see a mentally deranged woman who is determined to complicate my simple life.

They got off the elevator on the 14th floor as Karen continued down the hall to her office. He went back to his office and sat down. His leather chair reclined as he put his feet on the desk. Outside the window in the distance, he watched the jet's landing at the Atlanta airport.

He reached into his top desk drawer and pulled out a scenic calendar. He flipped through the pages, pausing briefly to look at the seasonal representation of each month. When he reached the month of October, he stopped turning the pages.

He carefully surveyed the scene of a farm nestled between two mountains. The bright red barn was situated in the foreground. To the side of the barn, several bales of golden brown hay were in a pasture and a few cows were standing in the morning sun. Overhead, the dark blue sky was dotted with patches of fluffy white clouds. Sam was so absorbed with the picture, that he did not hear the secretary enter his office.

Kelly offered a casual but devious observation. I understand you're going on a trip and my people are telling me you will not be traveling alone.

Sam raised his eyes slowly from the picture. A smile came to his face. Yes Kelly, I am taking a trip and no, I am not going alone. In fact, I think I'm going to ask George if he will let you go along for technical support.

She held a file folder about two feet above his desk and then let it fall. Sorry, Sam. You know what they say, three’s a crowd.

Sam leaned forward as he watched for her reaction. I've read some books where three is a pretty hot number. It could have some definite possibilities.

Kelly spoke before she sat down. It sounds like you have been reading some high quality literature again.

He began tapping his finger lightly on the desk before looking down at the file and then at Kelly. "You sound like my first wife.

She replied with conviction. You don't have a first wife.

Maybe not, but if I did, you would remind me of her. Nagging and complaining all the time.

Kelly looked out of the window and then back at Sam. All kidding aside, the word around the office is that you're going to be on this project for at least a month.

Sam looked over his left shoulder and then at Kelly. I don't understand, for the life of me how you know everything about my plans when I just found out fifteen minutes ago.

Kelly smiled, being pleased with the accuracy of her inside knowledge. Sandy told me weeks ago you were going to be handling this project, but she didn't know until a few minutes ago that Karen was going with you. You guys are the talk of the whole office now. From what I hear from my people, you have been seeing a lot of each other.

Sam leaned his head back as he looked at the ceiling, ignoring her comments about Karen. You have known about me working on that project for two weeks and you're just now telling me? I depend on you to keep me up with what’s going on around here.

Kelly stood up and started for the door. She replied in a casual voice while looking over her shoulder. It was confidential information.

Whose side are you on anyway? Sam asked.

Kelly smiled. I am on the side of the one that signs my paycheck. When you start writing the check, I’ll start letting you in on what’s going on around here.

She laughed and closed the door to his office after Sam made a face at her. He continued to work until he was interrupted by the intercom. Sam, Ms Johnson from the research department is here to see you.

Sam rolled his eyes and responded to his secretary's announcement. Tell her I am not in.

The door opened and Karen came in. Never mind, I’ll tell her I am not here.

After she sat down, she presented a file that she placed on the desk. It appeared to be