e sight, the three of them together in one room without a tense silence lingering in the air. Alexander was seated at his desk, a whiskey glass in his hand,

ly thought hosting a cocktail dinner fo

tainment, Nico. It's for business. We need to gather allies and supporters for t

' Got it. Can we at least make sure the bartenders know how to keep the dr

ow chuckle, breaking his usual stoic demeanor. "If anyone

. Let me savor it," Nico teased, gi

ight, almost secretive smile.

an't believe our dear Alexander here actually got his hands dirty with that little s

ow it was something special. We've all seen you pull out the icy 'Hartford gaze' wh

t calm. "I just don't tolerate harassment on our propert

all believe that. Still, I can't say I'm not impressed. The almighty Al

away but clearly amused. "I hea

test hint of a smile. "He'll think twice be

t my eye on her, and I'll make sure she's just fine. Besides, you've got

mix of warning and exasperation, "E

e offended. "And what's wrong with showing her a goo

ion? You can pursue any woman you like, Ni

eart dramatically. "Such a

lexander cleared his throat, turning back to the original topic. "Let's talk logistics. This cocktail din

exander a small, sardonic smile. "Y

der replied, with

ested. "I'm a pe

he last six events you attended solo. I'm pretty

co corrected with a grin. "Besides, I

ng a hint of dry amusement. "Just remember that this d

in mock surrender. "Rel

, finally speaking up with a question that had clearly been on his mi

local officials. We're expanding our network, and they'll want t

l. "Are we prepared to answer que

as transparent as possible, without divulging more than necessary. And if anyone asks abou

"You mean the scandals. Well, I'll do my part t

essing him. "Just... don't give anyo

rief moment, his playfulness faded. "I know how m

om in an unexpected silence. Alexander inclin

artford Enterprises has come too far to be derai

was doing before you called for this obviously not serious meeting." Dam

e time. You know sometimes I wonder what really goes on in your head." Nico said and c