Chapter 18

• She gave him a quick nod and turned away, her earlier irritation dissolving in seconds. Inside her mind, though, she was already crafting her backup plan. Staying didn’t mean she had to torture herself with small talk or Alejandro’s unnerving presence. She would simply find a balcony, claim a quiet corner, and spend the rest of the night peacefully—with her drink in hand and the sky above her.
• She felt smug at her little victory. Rajveer thought he had convinced her, but really, she had found her own way out.
• Across the hall, Alejandro had not missed a single flicker of expression on her face—the irritation, the negotiation, the greedy sparkle in her eyes at the mention of money, and finally, the triumphant smile. He almost chuckled, almost softened. She’s still such a child at heart, he thought, though his chest tightened with something he couldn’t name.