here conversations were measured in millions and whispers could sway legislation. Drew was standing near the

she s

erous rage. His expensive suit was rumpled, his hair a mess. He looked like

n faltered. In a city built on appearances, such

cold. She stood her ground, a predator watc

t only for her, but loud enough for nearby ears to catch. "You ha

shing a factual account of events? Mr. Sterling, the primary element of

eep, ugly red. "You

ine clarity. "Your reputation is a direct consequence of your actions, n

were openly staring now, their gazes shifting betwe

at her. "Who the hell do you think you are? You're just a bitch who climbed

al, personal attack, a line crossed

d to move forward, but Drew stopp

ry. Instead, a slow smile spread across her

ing my summa cum laude from Georgetown Law and my position here at Blackwell & Pratt,

y of one of the most prestigious law firms on K Street. Your disruptive beha

desk. Two guards were already on thei

er, laced with steel, "you insulted not just me, but my family. There are

time, he felt a sliver of real fear. This wasn't the woman he'

pressed down on him. The shame was a

ed. She addressed the approaching security guards. "This g

each taking an arm in a grip that was polite but unbreaka

ough the revolving doors and expelled onto th

She turned to her assistant. "Jessica,

in the silent lobby. She left behind an audience of stunned lawyers and

ar, did the smile fall from her face. A flicker of exhaustion crossed her fea

met her in the hallway as she stepped out. The older woma

rew replied with a sma

was over. Chad Ster

ar larger storm was gathering, an

xt message. From her gra

ner. We have thi