Holy shit. Baxter Media is huge, and I know exactly where this is going. With numerous television, newspaper, and advertising properties all over the country, Baxter Media must generate a ton of legal work. One of their flagship companies, SwiftNet, is a major internet service provider with headquarters right here in DC. For a firm like ours, which has branded itself as the lawyer’s law firm, snagging a client like Baxter Media could keep the lights on for a long time; recruiting Kimberly Bailey would be the logical first step in that process.

“We’re going to bring her in for a round of interviews,” Michael explains. “And unless she runs naked through the halls, I think it’s fair to say we’re going to offer her a job. But she’s also looking at other firms, so Olney and Henderson want to make sure we come out on top in the end.”

“How do they expect to guarantee that?”

“By showing her a great time when she and her partner visit the DMV. They’ll be here for the next couple of weeks, and she’s asked to meet with senior associates during that time. Apparently, she joked that it was the only way she’d get the real scoop on the firm’s culture.”

“She’s right,” I say, nodding.

“The partners know this too. But they don’t think the usual fancy dinner is enough. They want to offer an insider’s tour of DC. ‘Do whatever it is young people do,’ is how Henderson put it. All expenses paid.”

“Damn, they didn’t bother with any of that when I interviewed.”

“Can your dad give the firm millions of dollars in business each year?”

I don’t even know where my father is, but I doubt it’s anyplace good. “I’m guessing not.”

“Exactly,” Michael says. “This is big-league stuff here.”

Knowing exactly what’s at stake, I rub my hands together in anticipation. “So, in other words, I need to get in on whatever they’re planning.”

“Let me put it this way: If you manage to lure Kimberly Bailey to the firm, the partners will be so far up your ass you’ll need an enema to flush them out.”

I stare at him blankly. “This was all good news until you said that.”

He shakes his head at me. “Focus, Dean. You want to be the master of your own fate? Well, here’s your shot.”

“All right, all right. Thanks for having my back.”

Michael salutes me. “Admittedly, I’m doing this for my own benefit too. It’s hard hanging around with those folks. They’re stodgy as hell, and they wouldn’t recognize an innovative idea even if it was delivered in wrapping paper that literally said ‘Innovative ideas inside.’ I need you to get your ass in gear and join me.”

“I plan to, and I’m on it.”