Aria’s POV
“Devon!” I called out again, my voice strained as Preston tightened his grip on my hair.
In what felt like slow motion, Devon appeared at the private dining room doorway. His expression shifted
from casual indifference to cold calculation as he assessed the scene before him.
“Preston,” he said with deceptive lightness, “good to see you. Having a pleasant conversation with my
friend here?”
Preston’s grip loosened immediately. He straightened up, his face pale as he recognized the newcomer. “Mr. Kane. This is… this is a private meeting.”
Devon smiled, but his eyes remained glacial as he stepped inside and closed the door behind him. “Well, now it’s become a reunion. We haven’t caught up in what–two years? Not since that Miami development
fell through.”
The subtle reminder of Preston’s past failure hung in the air. I watched Devon navigate the room with effortless authority, settling into a chair as if he owned the place.
“I was just leaving,” Preston muttered, adjusting his wet pants with obvious discomfort.
“Nonsense,” Devon countered, gesturing to the vacant seat. “Join us for a drink. For old times‘ sake.” He signaled to the waiter hovering uncertainly by the door. “Your finest brandy, pl
I remained silent, studying Devon’s technique. Despite his casual demeanor, the
”་་
something
predatory in the way he commanded the space. Preston looked trapped, shifting uncomfortably as the waiter returned with an expensive bottle.
“So,” Devon said, pouring three glasses, “tell me about this Miami project. I heard Westbrook pulled their funding last minute?”
Preston’s face tightened. “That situation was-”
“A complete disaster,” Devon finished for him, pushing glass toward Preston. “Cost your investors what, twenty million? Drink up.”
I watched in fascination as Devon systematically dismantled Preston’s composure, bringing up business failures with each refilled glass. Every time Preston attempted to excuse himself, Devon would mention
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CU, DEC 24
Chapter 129
another potential investor or project, forcing Preston to stay engaged.
Thirty minutes later, Preston had consumed several brandies in quick succession. His greenish tint.
K53%
aken on a
“I need… bathroom,” he muttered, stumbling to his feet and barely making it to the door.
As soon as he disappeared, I exhaled heavily, the tension draining from my shoulders.
“That was… impressive,” I admitted, meeting Devon’s gaze across the table.
He regarded me coolly. “I didn’t expect to find you here. On a date with Preston Scott, of all people?”
“It wasn’t a date,” I clarified quickly. “Just a business meeting. I need investors.”
I hesitated, then added, “Thank you for stepping in.”
Devon’s mouth quirked into a sardonic smile. “Your conflict resolution strategy involves throwing tea on
people? Creative.”
My cheeks warmed with embarrassment and lingering anger. “He wanted more than investment returns. He was expecting… additional benefits.”
Devon’s expression hardened. “Did he record anything?
I shook my head. “No, I recorded him. Just in case.”
He nodded approvingly. “Smart. Though Preston has connections in certain circ
hould be careful.”
He rose to leave, straightening his impeccable suit jacket. “If there’s nothing else, I be going.”
I watched him, my mind racing through calculations and consequences. The weight of my failing company, the SEC investigation, the Blake family’s commercial blacklisting–all of it pressed down on me. I bit my lower lip, indecision warring with desperation.
“Wait,” I called as he reached the door. “Can I… get a ride with you? I’m worried Preston might come back looking for trouble.”
Devon raised an eyebrow but held the door open without comment. I quickly gathered my belongings and followed him through the restaurant to the gleaming Bentley waiting outside.
The interior of his car smelled of expensive leather and his subtle cologne. We sat in tense silence for
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12:06 Wed, Dec 24 GOD.
Chapter 129
several minutes, the soft purr of the engine the only sound between us.
“Interesting,” Devon finally said, his eyes fixed on the road ahead. “You’ll seek help from
人物:53%
e like
Preston Scott with his questionable reputation, but not from someone who could actually solve your
problems.”
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Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.

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