Jenna's slender fingers twisted open the cork of the red wine. Amber liquid cascaded into the decanter, releasing tiny bubbles. She arranged the nuts on a platter with the grace of a high-end restaurant server.

Gavin swirled his glass, ice cubes clinking against the crystal. "Miles, what's your startup capital?"

Miles threw back his drink, Adam's apple bobbing. "Five million. All my personal savings." His lips twisted wryly. "Grandpa's condition—turn it into five hundred million within three years to inherit the family business."

Dylan chimed in, "We've got the company structure set. Just need stable clients now."

"You launched without securing clients first?" Gavin's eyebrow arched, his gaze flickering between Ethan and Jenna.

Miles shrugged. "Isn't trial and error how business works?"

Gavin lowered his voice. "Ethan's the project director at HM Group. Win him over, and your order book will overflow."

Both Miles and Dylan choked on their drinks. They exchanged glances—everyone knew Ethan was HM Group's heir apparent.

Jenna poured the aerated wine into crystal goblets, light refracting through the glass. Her silver bracelet shimmered as she served each guest. "Enjoy." She took a sip before exiting, her skirt swirling elegantly.

The moment the door closed, Miles leaned in. "Gavin, Ethan is clearly—"

Gavin pressed a finger to his lips. "Remember, to Ms. Roland, he's just a regular project director." His meaningful glance at Ethan said everything. "Address him as Mr. Roscente."

Understanding dawned on Miles—the heir was roleplaying. He smoothly pivoted. "Mr. Roscente, I heard HM has a new project..."

Ethan's fingers drummed the table, but his gaze lingered where Jenna had disappeared. Under the chandelier's glow, his lips curved in an enigmatic half-smile.