Justin Kemnis nearly choked on Ethan Roscente's words.

He glanced down at his own slender, well-groomed fingers, brows furrowing in irritation.

Did this germaphobe forget who just helped him deal with that difficult client?

Taking a deep breath to suppress his anger, Justin massaged his temples. "Ninety thousand. Transfer it now. I'll donate it to her under the charity fund's name."

Ethan didn't even look up, fingers tapping lightly on his phone screen.

A notification chimed on Justin's device.

"One hundred thousand?" Justin's voice rose as he stared at the amount. "Did your math teacher quit?"

Ethan gave him a cool glance. "The extra ten is seed money. Combined with her savings, it's enough to start a small business."

"Holy shit!" Justin's eyes widened. "Last time you acted like you couldn't care less about her. Turns out you're playing guardian angel behind the scenes? My bad, man."

Ethan's gaze turned icy just as the elevator doors opened.

He strode out, his broad shoulders radiating a clear "keep away" message.

Justin hurried after him, dress shoes clicking rapidly against the marble floor.

"So how'd you two meet anyway?" He nudged closer with gossipy enthusiasm. "Did you even hold hands at the courthouse?"

Ethan stopped abruptly.

Justin nearly collided with his back.

"One more word," Ethan turned, eyes glacial, "and you can find another investor for your new energy project."

Instant regret washed over Justin's face. He clasped his hands together. "Bro, I was wrong!"

His solar project was hanging by a financial thread, and Ethan was his only lifeline.

Without another word, Ethan walked off, the sharp lines of his tailored suit pants cutting through the air.

Justin trailed behind like a chastened puppy, voice softening. "About that investment..."

"After the Roland kid's surgery." Ethan yanked the car door open, his tone colder than the winter wind outside.

Justin wisely shut his mouth.

Inside the black Maybach, Ethan scrolled through his contacts, finger hovering over "Liam Melford."