Ending the conversation. Zhao's gaze flicked to Ava, sharp and unreadable.
"And the girl?"
Lucas grinned, leaning back like this was all some casual conversation.
"Beauty, my new girlfriend."
Ava's eye twitched.
Zhao didn't react. "You expect me to believe that?"
Lucas chuckled. "Not really, but it sounds better than 'business partner who I dragged into clean up mess and handled things I didn't plan for.'"
Ava folded her arms, exhaling sharply. "Wow. How romantic."
Lucas's smirk widened. "Careful, Beauty. People might start thinking you actually like me."
Zhao ignored their exchange, fingers drumming once against the desk. "Why is she here, Bai?"
Lucas's tone shifted—just slightly.
"Because next time, she might be contacting you on my behalf."
Ava stiffened slightly.
Lucas tilted his head. "Think of her as an extension of our deal."
Zhao's black eyes flicked back to her, assessing.
Ava held his gaze, refusing to look away.
