My CEO 240

240 Gala Pot Stirring

(Judy)

I watch Jayden's face tighten from across the room as I make the small, familiar gesture with Gabriel. A rush of satisfaction floods me. He saw it. I knew he would.

It's a tiny thing, something I used to do with him when I wanted him to know I was proud of him and I loved him.

And now? Now it's enough to remind him of what we had, of what he's lost by cutting me out. Good. Let him stew in that for a while.

Jayden was on his way over. He would've violated the no contact order. I wanted that. But damn Gus had to step in being a big fatherly hero and stop Jayden's onslaught. Oh well, there's always next time. And there will be a next time,

Outwardly, I keep my expression calm and pleasant. I can't let Gabriel or Cass, or anyone else at this table, know how much pleasure I'm getting from riling Jayden up. It's a calculated move, and I'm already thinking three steps ahead.

If Jayden still cares enough to react, then I have leverage. There's still a chance for reconciliation, whether he realizes it or not. Because clearly he still has emotions attached to me.

I glance around the table. Phillip is deep in conversation with Eva, his usual smoothness on display. Phillip and I have a complicated history, but it's strictly business now.

We work well together, both of us perfectionists when it comes to our work.

He's always been professional, and while I don't entirely trust him given he's chosen to side with Winona, I know he's useful. He's loyal to Winona but I like to keep my friends close and my enemies closer. Our working relationship is solid, and that's important for me and Brennan Industries now.

"Judy, what do you think?" Phillip suddenly asks, pulling me back into the conversation. His gaze is sharp, assessing. He's good at that-making you feel like he's always a step ahead.

I smile, keeping my tone light, "About what?"

toward the two of them on the dance floor. Gabriel is leaning in close to Cass, whispering something that makes

that pisses

I think Gabriel is smitten with Cass? Not a chance. But whatever he is up to

1. me.

be indifferent. "They seem. close. None of

raises an eyebrow, clearly not buying my nonchalance. "He's a bit old for her, don't

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Phillip," I say, dismissing the concern with a wave of my hand. "Cass is a

Lance, who's been quietly observing the room, leans in. "I don't know. Gabriel's a smooth talker, but something about him rubs me the wrong

at Lance. "Lance, please. You're just jealous because Gabriel's better looking than you and Cass ignored you hitting on

"Maybe. But I've got a

retort, not wanting to entertain Lance's

reservations about Gabriel. He's playing his part too well, and Cass is too young to see through him. But I can't

money or use her for

doesn't affect me and my business, I don't give a rat's ass who

her sister. If I can use

the dance floor. He is getting a lot of looks from the ladies. I mean he is absolute cover model material. I think he'll be getting offers very

time on the dance floor. He's got that easy confidence about

doubt he learned that off Greg. He's much more like Gus in his demeanor. Charming and

a good time?" I ask, keeping my tone casual as I

leaning into Gabriel. "Yeah, it was great. He's a

disarming smile. "Cass is the real

He's laying it on thick, and Cass, in her naivety, is eating it up. This dynamic is going to get interesting. I can see how easily he's manipulating

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