Fortune watched Alessia’s calm, unruffled demeanor, and couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. Still, everything was unfolding exactly ording to his n.

“My clothes got dirty, so I took them off and asked the staff to bring me something clean,” he said, sticking to the story he’d prepared as he exined to Alessia, even as his mind drifted elsewhere.

Alessia nodded. “The attendant said the restroom upstairs was out of order, so she gave me a room key.”

Fortune feigned understanding. “Ah, right. I reserved this entire floor for tonight. Must have been a mix–up with the staff–they probably handed you the wrong key.”

Alessia didn’t bother with small talk. She didn’t tease him with, “Looks like Mr. Thorne is ready to rule the Thorne family empire–spending big, I see.”

Herposure was unexpected, and Fortune found himself a little surprised, but he yed along.

“I could neverpare to you, Miss Morton. I’m just riding on the family’s coattails. You, on the other hand–so young, and already running several sessfulpanies. My father’s always going on about you, says he wishes I had half your talent.”

Alessia simply smiled and dropped into a chair beside the TV stand, not offering a response.

“I hear some of the oldest firms are eager to partner with you. The Thorne Group may need to rely on Miss Morton’s guidance in the future.”

“If the Thorne family ns to do honest business, there’ll be plenty of opportunities for us to work together,” Alessia replied coolly.

Something in her tone made Fortune’s face darken. “What’s that supposed to mean, Miss Morton?”

10-04

Chapter b437 /b

“I was about to ask you the same thing, Mr. Thorne. What’s this little

charade for?b” /b

It was clear from Alessia’s posture and tone that Fortune could drop the act; there was no point pretending any longer.

“When did you figure it out? Was it Joyce who tipped you off?” he asked, sitting down on the bed, half–leaning against the headboard.

The covers were rumpled, the soft yellow glow of themp cast across the room, but there was nothing remotely intimate in the air.

“Wasn’t it obvious?” Alessia said. “Even if I hadn’t asked to use the

restroom, you would’ve found another way to get me up here, right?”

“Miss Morton, you really are sharp.” Fortune offered her a slow p.

She’d hit the nail on the head. The n had been for the champagne to spill on Alessia, but when something went awry, he’d simply improvised. The details didn’t matter–as long as he got what he wanted in the end.

“I have to admit, your courage is impressive–walking straight into the lion’s den. No wonder you have so many powerful people on your side.”

“So, what’s your endgame?” Alessia rested her hands on her knees, her voice steady, almost casual, as if she were the one in control.

“It’s simple. I’m about to take over the Thorne Group, but a few of my rtives are…less than enthusiastic. Here’s my proposal: we work together. You help me secure my ce as heir, and I’ll merge my entertainmentpany with your A&C Entertainment. It’s a win–win–what do you say?”

“Mr. Thorne, you certainly have an appetite. Eyeing A&C Entertainment as well?” Alessia’s smile was edged with irony.

“I know you built A&C Entertainment with backing from Cole and the Whitley Group. You two grew up together, everyone says your bond is unbreakable–but has he ever offered you a share in hispany? He’s been running the Whitley Group for years, but you’re still on the outside. If you ask me, he’s just keeping you at arm’s length–typical male

b10:04 /b

paranoia.”

Alessiaughed, not the least bit offended. “That’s a novel theory.”

“So?” she prompted.

“So, why not join forces with me? Together, we could take over the Whitley Group. I’ll guarantee you half the shares. And when that dayes, I’ll get rid of Sienna Winston and make you my fiancée.”

By now, Fortune was speaking with conviction, as if he could already see the two of them standing at the summit of the business world.

Alessia listened to his borate promises, barely suppressing augh.

bChapter /bb438 /b