Regret Came Too Late

Grace was too drained to eat after seeing Jodie again.

After a quick shower, she collapsed into bed.

The next day at work, following a morning meeting with the executives, her gaze fell on a recently released government project.

It promised just enough gain—about 100 million dollars—to be interesting but not competitive.

She tapped on the file, turning over to Zachary. "Who's in charge of the bidding for this project?"

"Some newcomer who got promoted not long ago," Zachary replied. "He's

showing up at a big charity gala tonight. The Sidlers are backing him, if I'm not mistaken."

Politics ran deep in the Sidler family, which explained their disciplined way of life.

Oscar Sidler, the patriarch of the Sidlers, and Jordan had both once held immense power. Their retirement marked a slow handoff to the next generation.

Julian, now at the helm, was running operations closely integrated with

government contracts. Everything followed protocol.

Ethan, in contrast, steered clear of politics. His strategy was acquisitions and expansion-business over influence.

The man behind the new project had ties to the Sidlers, but not enough to matter much. He was probably just a distant cousin or friendly connection.

back in her seat. If they

since her

asked, "Do we have an invite to

Zachary's expression turned uncomfortable.

quite. Ever since the company's scandal, even our long-time partners have been keeping their distance. We're stuck handling small contracts. And with

out her

get me into the gala

I'm nowhere near the orbit of those families who attend

consider Damien-things were too

the way he

was always a bad sign. When he went silent, it meant something was coming. She had to look

know Julian, and things with Ethan were lukewarm

As for Simon...

have an

for 7:00 pm, so she headed to a

her seat, Ed sent

"There's heavy snow outside."

smiled, tapping out a

I'm getting ready for something

was pinned up in clips