The party was in full swing around us, bodies swaying to the beat, drinks being passed around, and people with drugs running up the stairs for their fun times. Those who were invited to the back rooms were already there, doing what they did best. When I finally chanced a glance at Sloane standing next to me, I saw the smug look on her face.

“We’ll see,” I said, downing the rest of the amber liquid in my glass.

“I hope he was worth the trouble. I told you what your consequences would be, and I’m sad that we couldn’t be true friends. Our companies could have had beautiful partnerships to span the world. Just think of all the gorgeous trips we could have taken.” Her left hand swirled around the edge of the glass while she played a pitiful look on her face.

“I dunno. I think we’re about as close as we can get, babe.” I tipped up the left side of my mouth, knowing he’d be watching my every move tonight.

“Your aunt sends her regards, by the way. It’s wonderful doing business with the CEO of Montgomery Group.”

My jaw tightened instinctively.

A hand went to her waist, and I was tempted to squeeze my glass until it shattered so I could slice her neck open.

It would solve one problem, at least.

“Why don’t you head to the VIP room,” he tapped her back, ushering her away from the two of us.

She smiled. “Of course, baby. Toodles, Fallon.”

I turned away from him, waving for another round of whiskey. Being drunk was the best option lately. Whatever games he played, I wasn’t interested in the details. We were associates, not romantically paired.

“You look lovely tonight,” he said, picking up a drink offered out to him.

“Not my choice of evening attire, if I’m being honest. Too gaudy for my tastes.” I refused to look him in the eyes.

I broke all personal relationships off–too complicated. I told him to leave me alone permanently unless it was for business. What reason would I have to be jealous?

“You know she’s bluffing, right? She bought her own damn ring to flaunt around. Most people know she’s lying through her teeth in order to get me to bend the knee.” He scooted closer, hoping I’d look at him.

“Doesn’t matter.” The alcohol stopped burning my throat weeks ago. I relished how it warmed my veins and put me to sleep after a while.

“You can’t ignore me forever, Blondie. Plus, we have a meeting the day after your birthday to discuss things between our companies.”

Oh right, he was CEO of Chamberlain Industries. It was blasted all over the news.

Augustus Vaughn concedes international conglomerate, Chamberlain Industries, to his grandson, Brent Vaughn. He says he’s excited about the future and trajectory of their multi-generational endeavors.