Chapter 140

‘That money was yours the moment I gave it to you,’ Ashton said. ‘But if it makes you feel uneasy, you could give me part of the studio in return. Forty-nine per cent?’ I considered it. ‘Alright.’ His voice dropped. ‘If we’re talking share transfers, we’ll need a contract. I’ll get someone on it.’ ‘We’re going full corporate, huh? Fine. Use your legal team.’ ‘Will do.’ Silence settled in. I watched a droplet of condensation roll down the side of my glass and disappear into the tablecloth. He didn’t check his phone. Just kept looking out the window, posture still, expression unreadable. I cleared my throat. ‘So… any update on Maxwell?’ ‘Dismissed. Arrested. Under internal review for further sanctions. Legal’s working on it.’ ‘Was anyone else involved?’ ‘Not that we know of.’ He paused, then added, ‘If there are, we’ll find them.’ I nodded, fiddled with the stem of my glass. ‘Right. Makes sense.’ He didn’t say anything back. ‘Sorry. I wasn’t trying to imply anything. It’s just—never mind