Page 24 of Billion Dollar Dispute

I close my eyes briefly, take a deep breath to compose myself, and turn to face him, ready to snap. “We’re not partners.”

“Then what are we if we aren’t working on your business together?”

“Acquaintances.”

I can’t help but let my eyes wander over him. His black tuxedo fits him like a glove, accentuating his broad shoulders and tapered waist. I’ve got to admit, he’s dangerously handsome in this outfit.

“Are you sure about that?” His eyebrow is arched, his gaze piercing mine with an intensity that sends a shiver down my spine.

He totally catches me checking him out. I’ve seen him before, but this time, I’m really taking it all in. I can’t help it; Molly’s been gushing about how hot he is and made me promise to give her every detail about him tonight.

“Very,” I reply.

“Well, come on. Let me introduce you to some people.” The twinkle in his eye says that he means business, and with that, I find myself drawn back toward the crowd.

A server with drinks stops us, and I go to grab champagne, but then I remember I’m about to meet potential clients, so I retract my hand. I need to keep my mind sharp.

Harvey leads me with a gentle hand on my lower back toward a woman with short brown hair, who introduces herself, then goes on to explain to me that she has a birthday coming up and she's planning to invite over one hundred people. Of course I’m thrilled to hand over my business card. We arrange to discuss the details next week.

I meet a few more people, each interaction fuelling my determination to succeed. Then, I’m introduced to a man in a sharp black suit who seems oddly familiar. I wonder if we’ve met before.

“Jemima, this is my brother, Oliver,” Harvey introduces.

Now I know why he’s so familiar.My Google research.

“Nice to meet you,” I say with a polite smile.

Another two men join them, all dark-haired, and before I can even take a guess, Harvey introduces them.

“These are my other two brothers, Evan and Jeremy.”

“Nice to meet you all,” I say to the group.

They all nod and greet me back, their expressions a mix of curiosity and amusement.

“You all look alike,” I comment, noticing the striking resemblance among the brothers.

“Our dad’s genes are strong,” Oliver replies with a chuckle.

“This is the CEO of Recaredo Events,” Harvey adds, his gaze flicking around to his brothers before meeting my eyes. “Make sure to grab her business card. You’re not throwing another party without her help.”

“She’s the one you’re helping,” Jeremy says with a smirk, shooting a knowing glance at Harvey.

“Yes,” Harvey warns.

“How did you get her to agree? And Jemima, I thought you’d eat him alive before you did that,” he says in a playful tone.

“Jeremy,” Harvey snaps, a hint of annoyance in his voice.

He winks. “Payback.”

I don’t know what he’s talking about, but I don’t want to tell them that the owners of my apartment complex are selling, and I could be out on the streets if I don’t find some way to save my parents' business. I shift uncomfortably, hoping my anxiety isn’t too obvious.

I meet Harvey’s gaze before turning my attention to Jeremy. “Must be his good looks,” I say, giving Harvey’s chest a light pat, hoping to steer the conversation away from my personal struggles.

They all bark out laughing.

“Good one, Jem,” Oliver says.

---