Page 8

"Just me, and I'd like a good spot where I can likely catch up with old acquaintances."

"Of course, Mr. Kontides."

My conscience starts to nag me as I follow behind him. I know I'm crossing a line here. I'm her boss, not her keeper.

But...I'm justconcerned.

It's not like I'm going to get myself involved or anything.

I just want to make sure she's alright, that's all.

The guy at reception gives me a table right in front of a private room.

Ah.

I see.

They wantprivacy.

While I...want to murder someone.

I give it an hour, nursing a whiskey at the bar, watching the hallway.

But no one comes out.

What the hell's happening in there?

Is she already being smooth-talked into saying yes to something she shouldn't? Is she being seduced? Or having her drink spiked?

Enough of this, dammit.

I'm going in there.

Just to make sure she's safe and not being taken advantage of.

It's nearly eight o'clock. If it's an innocent dinner, I can apologize for the interruption and leave.

But if it's not?

My muscles tense as I head toward the private room.

I hear laughter. And another female voice?

Relief floods my entire being.

So itisan innocent dinner, after all.

Of course it is.

But you can't be too sure, you know?

I turn away, deciding it's high time I leave—

"Greek billionaires think they own everything. Including people."

But then I turn back just as swiftly the moment I hear Shayla's voice and what she has to say—

"He's the absolute worst!"