Page 28 of Undercover Hearts

A coffee service waited on a low table surrounded by leather armchairs. Alina prepared cups while Kendall positioned herself near the door, her posture casual but gaze vigilant.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable." Sienna gestured to the seating area. "The workshop tends to create thirst for both refreshment and deeper conversation."

Jenna accepted a porcelain cup from Alina with a grateful smile. "Dr. Novak has a gift for creating safe spaces for vulnerability."

"Indeed," Sienna agreed, settling into her chair. "Vulnerability and trust form the foundation of our most valuable relationships." She studied them over her cup. "Your consultancy focuses on women-owned businesses, correct? How did you identify that specific need?"

Michelle leaned forward, her posture open and engaged. "Working in corporate environments, we witnessed countless brilliant women with innovative ideas struggle for recognitionand resources. When we left GreenTech, supporting those women became our mission."

"A worthy cause." Sienna nodded. "At PWC, we've found that women supporting women creates exponential growth—the very foundation of our leadership development program."

Jenna sensed an opening. "I've been curious about that program since Nicole mentioned it. How exactly does it work?"

"We identify members with particular potential," Sienna explained, her voice warming. "Those who demonstrate commitment to our values are invited to quarterly retreats where we cultivate deeper connections and strategic thinking."

"Retreats sound wonderful," Jenna responded with enthusiasm. "Getting away from distractions to focus on growth."

"Exactly," Alina interjected. "Our spring retreat is coming up in eight days at Sienna's coastal property. Three days of intensive development with our most committed members."

Jenna exchanged a quick glance with Michelle, the information aligning perfectly with their intelligence about a major shipment arrival.

"The leadership development begins with understanding different tiers of commitment," Sienna continued. "Membership levels reflect increasing involvement and responsibility. Both of you have shown promising alignment with our vision."

Kendall finally spoke. "The screening process ensures we invest in the right women. Some aren't ready for the responsibilities that come with deeper access."

The subtle warning wasn't lost on Jenna. "I imagine trust is essential when building any significant movement."

"Precisely," Kendall agreed, her gaze direct. "Trust must be verified, not merely given. For instance, we've had difficulty confirming certain details about your time at GreenTech Industries in Meridian Heights."

Jenna felt Michelle tense beside her, though nothing showed on her composed face.

"Oh?" Michelle's voice remained casual. "What specifically?"

"Your departure timeline seems inconsistent with GreenTech's leadership changes," Kendall replied. "Our records show Lawrence Mercer became CMO eight months before you claim to have been passed over for the position."

Jenna's mind raced even as she maintained her relaxed smile. Their cover story had a dangerous gap. She laughed softly, touching Michelle's arm with gentle reproach.

"Darling, you've been compressing the timeline again." She turned to Kendall with open warmth. "Michelle's version always makes it sound like she left immediately, but there were actually several months between events. Professional pride."

Michelle played along seamlessly, offering a rueful smile. "Jenna's right. I stayed during the transition, trying to make it work despite my disappointment. The situation became untenable gradually, not immediately."

"Corporate politics rarely create clean breaks," Jenna added. "It was watching Michelle struggle in a system designed to marginalize her that ultimately inspired our business model."

Kendall's expression remained neutral, but Jenna sensed her suspicion hadn't entirely dissipated.

Sienna, however, seemed satisfied. "Corporate environments can be particularly challenging for women who refuse to compromise. Your alternative path is precisely the kind of initiative PWC supports."

The conversation shifted to safer topics: consulting strategies and PWC's upcoming initiatives. Throughout, Jenna remained hyperaware of Kendall's watchful presence, mentally noting every detail about the retreat property.

"Before you go," Alina said as the meeting wound down, "we're looking for volunteers for our newsletter committee. Your communications background would be valuable, Jenna."

"I'd be happy to help," Jenna replied, recognizing the opportunity for deeper access.

"Excellent." Sienna rose. "The committee meets Tuesday afternoons. You'll have access to our content management systems and member communications—a perfect way to understand our community better."

Only when they reached their car did Jenna allow her professional mask to slip slightly, exhaling a controlled breath.

"That was close," she murmured once they were safely away.