Chapter 199

Ethan recovered quickly. The brief hesitation in his expression disappeared as if it had never been there. He straightened slightly, his tone returning to its usual calm and gentle rhythm, as though the awkwardness from just now had been nothing more than a passing illusion. “I came to discuss a collaboration with Rhea,” he said smoothly. He didn’t glance at the dining table. Didn’t acknowledge the neatly arranged dishes or the warm, lived-in atmosphere of the apartment. As if he truly hadn’t noticed any of it. “We’re planning to redesign our company’s employee uniforms this year,” he continued, his voice steady. “I was hoping to work with you on the project.” It wasn’t a small offer. Not even close. Seasonal designs. Spring, summer, autumn, winter. Each set paid for individually. And if the collaboration went well. There would be long-term renewal and adjustments year after year. For most designers, this kind of contract could sustain an entire studio. In the past Rhea would have been