Astor studied me from across the table, her fingers resting lightly on the porcelain t

ably

kept things... 'low key,' if I should put it that way." Her voice was the definition of posh-silky smooth, controlled, dripping wit

ng her final trick, she slid

w York

nt

ENT FACES PUBLIC SCR

r. The image was blurry-thank God-but it was still clear enough to recognize the expensive slit dress

mediately recognize me from the picture. But Jose

rving an insect pinned under glass. "I don't care what you do. I don't care how much you party, how much you drink, o

t-w

g a manicured hand over the tablecloth, "is po

ith Josep

ing a deal with t

roat dry as dust.

rry about the influence of Tobias Astor, his uncle. He is still far too young to take over the business and he has much to learn. This marriage is ha

e it

for a daughter-in-law. Sh

ther Dimitri, control of the company the moment they turned eighteen. Fortunately for me, his brother took the route of a musician and has no interest in run

t the base of my throat. "And wha

s gleaming, "I think you alre

ng from that bombshell, she d

sider. Because if you do, you won't just be walking away from this

nside me tur

" I cr

her unsavory rumors swirling about besides the fraud investigations, investors pulling out one by one.

rms of my chair

s company, your fashion brand. Or, if you choose wisely, I could make it untouchable. Just imagine... every runway, every cover, every elite name clamoring t

e. Having her as an enemy would be... unimaginable. But aligning with her

n there

ought of having him under my control. If I played this rig

it take to keep

g my voice to stay even. "I

ling. I need a grandchild. An heir to secure this family's legacy. But really, that's

a business transaction, sent an u

sharp, unexpected laugh. "Although, what I have in min

gainst my lap. "I'm a

, her grin widening. "Oh, Celeste. D