The sleek, black town car glided smoothly through the city streets, its tinted windows a barrier against the prying eyes of the outside world. Evelina gazed out at the blurred skyline, her mind preoccupied with the myriad of tasks and responsibilities that lay ahead.

"Penny for your thoughts?" Alden's rich baritone broke through her musings.

Evelina turned to face him, a wry smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "Just mentally preparing for the gauntlet that awaits us today."

Alden chuckled, his warm laughter filling the confines of the car. "Ah, yes, the ever-exciting world of business negotiations."

"Don't pretend you don't live for these high-stakes games of corporate...