Steve Wagner looked into Leo's unyielding eyes.
He suddenly deflated like a popped balloon.
He was a smart man—or, to be more precise, a survivor who had clawed his way through the political jungle for many years.
He understood the implication behind Leo's words.
This wasn't a negotiation.
Wagner's shoulders slumped, and his once-straight back hunched over.
"Mr. Mayor… I'm sorry."
Wagner's voice dropped an octave. His earlier bluster vanished, replaced by an almost pleading tone.
"I… I got a little carried away just now. I apologize."
He reached up and pulled the paper from his chest, his fingers trembling slightly.
"But you have to understand my predicament."
"There's really nothing I can do."
Wagner looked up, forcing a pained smile onto his jowly face. His eyes were filled with helplessness.
"Everyone on the outside thinks the Department of Public Works is a cushy job, that I'm powerful and influential."
