"Blackwood," he said at last.
I nodded.
It wasn't anger that I felt. Nor is there wounded pride. It was something more complex. Something that had nothing to do with contracts or figures.
Working with Ethan was not a business issue, it was entering a field where I no longer knew who I was.
"That's a good proposal," Alexander said carefully. "Professionally speaking."
I looked at him.
"I know."
And he knew it. Blackwood Enterprises had infrastructure, presence, reputation. The investor wasn't doubting me on a whim. He was protecting his money.
"But—" he added.
"But it's not just professional."
I softly denied.
"I don't want this to look like I needed rescue."
Alexander leaned back in his chair.
"It's not. It is a strategic solution. Big companies make alliances all the time."
