Several adjacent structures could be redeveloped first, allowing a properly equipped temporary music facility to operate nearby before major work began on the original building.
The solution wasn't cheap.
It reduced the project's anticipated returns.
And it required more coordination.
But it preserved the possibility of keeping the center's programs operating throughout construction.
Elaine presented the report to Holloway.
He read the summary.
Then frowned.
"You're telling me we can keep the building?"
She nodded.
"With substantial work."
He looked toward the cost estimate.
"That cuts into the margin."
"Yes."
He leaned backward.
For several seconds, he remained silent.
Then asked whether Han had received the report.
Elaine answered honestly.
"His advisers requested a copy."
Holloway closed his eyes.
For the first time, he recognized that the project could still proceed.
But not under the easy assumptions he'd been selling.
Min-jae called a meeting with Holloway the following Monday.
The discussion took place in the development company's conference room overlooking Central Park.
Holloway arrived with three executives.
Min-jae brought two advisers and the independent assessment.
They exchanged polite greetings.
Then the Korean businessman began asking questions.
He wanted to understand why the original investor materials described a six-month interruption when the community's correspondence warned of a much longer closure.
Holloway explained that development schedules evolved.
Min-jae nodded.
Then asked why the temporary facilities were presented as adequate when the independent consultant identified serious limitations.
Holloway said his project team had been exploring alternatives.
Again, Min-jae nodded.
Then he asked the question that changed the tone.
"Have you ever visited the music house during a class?"
Holloway stared.
For a moment, he seemed offended.
"I've reviewed the property."
"During a class?"
The millionaire looked toward Elaine.
She remained silent.
Finally, he answered.
"No."
Min-jae leaned backward.
"Then I think you should."
Holloway frowned.
"Min-jae, I don't need to attend a children's piano lesson to understand a development project."
The Korean businessman studied him.
For several seconds, he didn't speak.
Then answered.
"If you're asking me to invest in preserving music education, I'd like you to understand what you're preserving."
Holloway looked away.
He wanted to argue.
But the investor was right.
And the independent report made it difficult to dismiss the concern as sentimentality.
Finally, he said.
"Fine."
Min-jae nodded.
"Good."
Then he added.
"And I suggest you speak with Ms. Brooks about the way you treated her."
Holloway's expression hardened again.
For a moment, the room went very quiet.
The millionaire leaned forward.
"That waitress has become more trouble than I ever imagined."
Min-jae looked directly at him.