CHAPTER FIFTY – ANOTHER ARRANGEMENT

A middle-aged businessman at one of her tables leaned in conspiratorially. "So, you're the one who's caught von Steiner's eye, eh? Listen, sweetheart, I've got a business proposal that could make us both very rich. Think you could put in a good word for me?" Cassie felt a flash of irritation but kept her professional smile in place. "I'm sorry, sir, but I don't have any influence over Mr. von Steiner's business dealings. Would you like to order another drink?" The man's face fell slightly, but he nodded. "Ah, playing it close to the vest. Smart girl. I'll have another scotch." As Cassie moved to the bar to place the order, she overheard another patron talking to his companion. "That's her," he said in a stage whisper. "von Steiner's new plaything. Watch, she'll be wearing designer clothes and driving a sports car within a month." Cassie gritted her teeth, fighting to maintain her composure. She reminded herself of Jenna's advice: if they were playing games, she needed to beat them