Page 102 of Gathered Sparkle

She nods, turning her laptop to face me and pointing to a specific line. “This. We structure it this way to avoid triggering any red flags during audits. Casinos generate large cash flows, which is perfect for reinvestment, but the key is to make it look legitimate. It’s standard practice.”

Standard practice.

The words churn in my stomach. Of course, I already knew the casinos were used for laundering money—she made no effort to hide that when I first asked.“It’s what everyone does,”she’d said, brushing it off like it was nothing. Like it wasn’t a massive fucking problem. But hearing her explain it again so calmly still makes my skin crawl.

“I see,” I reply, forcing a nod.

“Good.” She watches me closely, searching for cracks in my façade. “You’ll get the hang of it.”

I should feel relieved that she isn’t berating me. I should be grateful she’s treating me like I’m worth her time for once. But it irks me instead, twists my insides into knots.

Where was this version of her when I was a kid, desperate for her approval? When every small mistake earned me contempt and every accomplishment was dismissed?

Now, suddenly, I’m worth her while?

Her opinion changed when I told her I was ready to work with her. That’s all it took. Not my years of trying, not my pleas for recognition, only my willingness to step into her world.

She’s playing a part, trying to keep me close now that I’m useful. And God, it’s almost working.Almost.

But then I think of Oscar, and my resolve hardens. I told myself I wouldn’t waver, no matter how she tried to reel me in. I can’t let this fake version of her sway me.

I glance at her laptop, the screen angle allowing me to see the document she’s working on. I’ve tried to log in before when she left it unattended, but I can’t get around her passwords. Or guess them. I’d probably need Sylus’s help, though the thought of asking him makes my stomach twist.

For now, I do what I can. I’m wired, a small recorder hidden beneath my shirt, ready to capture anything she might slip up and say. It’s a long shot. She’s too careful to give me anything big. And I can’t pry too much, can’t risk her catching on.

“Nicholas,” her voice snaps me back from my wandering thoughts. “Are you lost again?”

I shake my head quickly. “No, just thinking.”

“Don’t overthink.” Her tone is almost dismissive now. “Focus. This isn’t as complicated as it looks.”

Easy for her to say. But I nod again, forcing myself to meet her gaze. “Of course.”

Veronica’s phone rings on the island between us, and my eyes flick to the screen.

Koen Lane.

What the fuck?

He texted me that Sylus, Alaric, and Novalee were at the Plaza, scoping out the rooftop. I didn’t ask what he was doing, but apparently… this.

“What a surprise,” Veronica murmurs before she picks up the phone. “Koen, how are you?”

“Veronica, am I disturbing you?” She has her phone turned up so loud I can hear Koen’s response as clearly as if he were sitting at the island with us.

I clench my fists under the table.

What the hell?

He didn’t mention contacting her. Not a word.

“Of course not, darling,” she coos. “How can I help you?”

“I was wondering if you’ve got a minute for me today,” Koen replies, his voice giving nothing away. “I’d like to talk some more about the joint venture. I’ve been thinking about it and had some ideas.”

“I’m free now.” Veronica’s eyes light up, and when her gaze lands on me, she gives me a satisfied smile. “Nicholas and I are just going over some numbers, but you could join us up at the penthouse if you’d like. I can order us a late lunch.”

“Oh, please,” Koen replies, a light laugh in his voice. “No food necessary, but I’d love to take a coffee with you up there and discuss. Should I grab some on the way, or…”

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