Late-night streetlights cut neon slashes across the wet pavement as Lin Wantang's car glided into the secure loading bay behind Starfire Atelier. Gravel crunched under the tires. She carried Jasper's small hand against her ribcage, his dragon‑jade pawn nestled in her pocket like a secret talisman.
Behind the tinted glass, Wen Tao waited with a neutral expression. Beside him, two technicians rolled a silver case stamped with Qi Group's crest. The bay smelled of diesel and cool steel—a far cry from jasmine‑scented boardrooms or marble showrooms.
“Mr. Qi requested you oversee this personally," Wen said, handing Wantang a pair of white gloves. “He'll be here shortly."
She nodded, slipping on the gloves. “Thank you."
Jasper peered over the console's edge. “What's in the box?"
Wantang offer
