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Darius moved on. “Paris office called too. A couple Delacroix relatives are asking questions about the merger.”

“Let them ask.”

“They’re nervous because your grandfather hasn’t been talking much these days.”

“He doesn’t have to.”

Everything around me was moving at once. Old enemies were testing the air, women were circling back around for money, and Delacroix family politics were heating up because our name was about to merge with the Laveaus.

Pressure didn’t bother me. It usually made everybody else show their hand faster.

“One more thing.”

“Say it.”

“You’re on the guest list for the Valmont charity gala.”

I closed my eyes for a second. “I hate that fucking event.”

“I know.”

“Remind me why I go.”

“Because billionaires who donate millions to children’s hospitals look good on magazine covers.”

“Ah. Public image.”

“Plus every powerful family in California attends.”

That was exactly why I hated it. Jealous men, old money, politicians pretending they weren’t corrupt, and criminals pretending they were respectable all ended up in the same room dressed in tuxedos.

Anytime somebody’s empire shifted, people watched to see if they could benefit from it.

Mine was shifting right now.

“Fine. I’ll go, but I’m not bringing a date.”

Darius nodded. “I’ll have your suit ready.”

He started toward the door but stopped when it opened.

My receptionist walked in first, and behind her was a wheelchair. Marcel sat in it looking like death in a tailored suit while his nurse-assistant pushed him into my office. I stood up because seeing my grandfather in California was the last thing I expected. He hated the United States and rarely came unless business left him no choice.

“Grandfather.”

Marcel waved his assistant away before rolling himself farther into my office.

“You look irritated,” he said with a low chuckle.

“Los Angeles traffic. I have to get into it later.”

A faint smile crossed his face. “I couldn’t talk to you in France.”

“Why not?”

“Laurent listens to everything.”

I looked at Marcel differently after that.