uthority of a man who commanded empires. His handsome features were sharp yet composed, the kind of face that belonged on the covers of business magazines. He w

e asked, his deep voice carrying genui

sheer presence of the man-wealth and power distilled into

she whispered, the name slippi

hone had already begun to ring. He a

pe

se. "Boss, Amber couldn't make it to th

istry open at this hour-something most people couldn't arrange in a lifetime.

call with a

e surprisingly steady despite the

on her. He studied her for a long moment, as

is tone low and firm. "This is

hout hesitation. "I'm r

a brow. "Y

a Pa

, who had been waiting discreetly by th

on Miss Tyla Parker," Ju

tly on his tablet, and moments later

ained unreadable. "Very

dows. They signed the papers with clinical efficiency; the officiant, clearly accustomed to accommodating the elite at odd hours, issued the certificate w

.

rranged bed. The sheets were silk, the room vast and tastefully opulent. For

nearby armchair, a cup of coffee in h

ened between us last night. You were i

us night reassembling in her mind. The betr

rried now?" she asked

e terms last night, but you were, understandably, in

age?" Tyla ech

rriage remains confidential. After that period, we dec

nd the reason for the trial period? You want to..

hint of amusement. "Nothing so cynica

e buzzed on the nightstand. The name on

a second, then answ

lo,

ce was casual, as if last nigh

ly. "My sister booked me a roo

Listen, I n

he phone. "Are you at the

e up-The Golden Crest reached out. They want to give us a contract. T

he couldn't see. "

She can't cook today. The Golden Crest executives are coming to samp

g beneath her calm exterior. "How d

ions, Tyla. Just get to the r

right. I'll do it-for us,

y. I knew I cou

, a cold, wicked sm

t was coming-for h

have been

ad learne