Regret Came Too Late

Grace was too drained to eat after seeing Jodie again.

After a quick shower, she collapsed into bed.

The next day at work, following a morning meeting with the executives, her gaze fell on a recently released government project.

It promised just enough gain—about 100 million dollars—to be interesting but not competitive.

She tapped on the file, turning over to Zachary. "Who's in charge of the bidding for this project?"

"Some newcomer who got promoted not long ago," Zachary replied. "He's

showing up at a big charity gala tonight. The Sidlers are backing him, if I'm not mistaken."

Politics ran deep in the Sidler family, which explained their disciplined way of life.

Oscar Sidler, the patriarch of the Sidlers, and Jordan had both once held immense power. Their retirement marked a slow handoff to the next generation.

Julian, now at the helm, was running operations closely integrated with

government contracts. Everything followed protocol.

Ethan, in contrast, steered clear of politics. His strategy was acquisitions and expansion-business over influence.

but not enough to matter much. He was probably just a distant cousin or

If they could land this project, things would start looking

hadn't attended any public events since her return-tonight might be the right

we

Zachary's expression turned uncomfortable.

stuck handling small contracts. And with all the negative press, no one

out her phone and called

chance you can get me into the gala tonight?" she

orbit of those families who attend events like that. If you're serious about attending, you'll need to go to the Sidlers, Ethan... or maybe

wasn't even going to consider

the way he

he went silent, it meant

didn't know Julian, and things with Ethan were lukewarm

As for Simon...

gave her a call. To ber surprise, Yasmine did have an invite, and since she

set for 7:00 pm, so she headed to a salon to

into her

"There's heavy snow outside."

smiled, tapping

I'm getting ready for something right now-getting

pinned up