But why was he here tonight? And without his father.
It wasn't unusual for her dad to entertain business associates at home. He'd invited Tristan's father Laurent Jordain, the tech billionaire, over more than once since they started running performance analytics on his company's software programs two years ago. And even though Laurent often insisted Tristan accompany him to these dinners—probably in the hopes that he'll someday take an interest in the company—Tristan had never come without his father.
She couldn't decide if her dad's fascination with Laurent was hero worship or a bromance. He'd been ecstatic last year when Laurent invited them to what turned out to be the first of many high-society functions that, despite her father's wealth, he'd never been included in before.
And her dad had networked like a master at each one, entrenching himself in the ultra-rich society that his bank account didn't quite measure up to.
"So, I have good news." Her father spoke as soon as Helen left the room after serving the salads.
"Oh?"
"I've been working closely with Laurent. I'm sure you're aware that he sits on the board of half a dozen large companies." He then proceeded to rattle off the names of several Fortune Five Hundred companies.
Eden nodded even though she hadn't been aware that Laurent Jordain was involved with so many big-name companies. It didn't surprise her, though. Laurent was not only brilliant he was also a shrewd investor and businessman. He achieved billionaire status several years ago after inventing and selling some sophisticated, high-tech electronic components. Since then, he'd grown his business Innovative Solutions by purchasing a software development company formerly known as Andertech Solutions.
"He has promised me he'll seek exclusive data analytic rights for us with each of those companies."
Eden set down her fork and gave her dad a tight smile. "That's great!"
That would mean some high-profile contracts for DuPont Data Analytics and would make the company a lot of money. For some reason, the thought only made her dislike her job more. Mega companies were sometimes the hardest to work with when it came to demanding, know-it-all CEOs.
Eden couldn't help feeling like there must be a catch. If Laurent followed through, he'd expect something in return. Men like him didn't do favors. They always had an agenda.
They talked a little more about what exclusivity rights with these companies would mean for DuPont Analytics then halfway through the main course, her dad changed the subject.
"Tristan is getting ready to step up in his dad's company."
Eden nearly choked on a bite of broccoli.
What exactly did that mean?
Had the playboy ever worked a full day in his life?
She couldn't help recalling the conversation she overheard last year between Tristan and his buddies.
He smirked when he told them, "Oh I have no intention of running Innovative Solutions when the old man hands over the reins or kicks the bucket, whichever comes first. I plan to persuade the board of trustees to let me sell off bits and pieces of the company to the highest bidder until there's nothing left." He threw back his drink before adding, "You dangle enough money in front of someone, they'll do anything you want them to."
Seeing as how Innovative Solutions was worth billions, Tristan could easily spend the rest of his life partying and never run out of money.
"That's nice," she murmured into her water glass as she lifted it to her lips.
I'll believe it when I see it.
She finally let her gaze rest on the man across the table from her. He still ogled her with half-hooded eyes. Most women would find that smoldering look sexy, but Eden had shut it down a long time ago. She repressed a shudder. She'd come to hate that look almost as much as she hated him.
A bitter taste filled her mouth as she recalled the first time she met him at a high-class charity function. Within minutes of being introduced, he'd invited her to his hotel room.
She'd barely refrained from slapping him, regretfully, and told him she'd never sleep with someone she'd just met. So, he offered to wine and dine her for the evening before they got it on in his room.
It was sad. With his good looks and money, he could influence people to do all kinds of good if he only tried. Though she'd never experienced it personally, she'd heard he was smart and could be quite charming.
"Laurent has decided that if Tristan cleans up his act and gets serious about learning the business, he'll let him hold a position within the company."
This time, she choked on her water. Did Laurent seriously plan to hand the business over to Tristan one day?
"Your father wants you to clean up your act?" Eden said, barely repressing a laugh. "What exactly does that entail?" She looked directly at the playboy now with raised eyebrows.
No more parties, benders, and loose women? She doubted Tristan could go without any one of those for twenty-four hours, let alone all three indefinitely.
