Andre turned, his gaze flickering from surprise to recognition. “Annabelle,” he said, his voice deep and smooth. “Annabelle Robinson. What a surprise to see you here.”
“I had to see what all the fuss was about this place,” she replied, deliberately making her tone casual. “And I thought it was the perfect time to catch up.” The two men beside him exchanged glances, and Annabelle felt a rush of adrenaline; she was standing before one of the most influential men in the city, and she needed to make her pitch.
“Busy, as always,” Andre said, glancing at his watch. “But I could spare a few minutes. Care for a quick game?”
“Actually, I’d love to talk business.” Annabelle cut in, her heart pounding. “It’s about your contract with my brother. I think there’s a way we can work this out without yo
