I crossed the ballroom fast, before my nerves could catch up with my legs.
Palms slick. Heart slamming. My feet didn’t stop.
The investors’ circle had tightened around Julian and Andrew near the bar. Crystal glasses. Low laughter.
Then I was there, sliding between a gray suit and Andrew’s shoulder like I belonged.
“Excuse me.”
Julian’s head turned first. His eyes found mine, and for half a second something flickered there before his face settled back into place.
He didn’t miss a beat.
“Tamara. Perfect timing.” His voice was smooth, practiced the one he used when the room needed to believe him. “Dad, pardon the interruption. Legal just called. The revised nondisclosure needs her signature before midnight or the whole package stalls.”
Andrew’s glass paused halfway to his mouth. “Now?
