CHAPTER 14

I thought carefully about what Charles said. Partnering with Nathan's enemy was the best way to hurt him, if that's what I really wanted. And having Charles on my side instead of against could make NexGen even bigger than Dad ever dreamed.

"I think," I finally said, looking Charles in the eye, "this could be a very profitable deal for everyone involved."

I raised my glass of champagne. "To new beginnings."

Charles smiled widely, almost like a wolf. He clinked his glass against mine. "To new beginnings," he repeated.

His eyes seemed to sparkle under the candlelight, like they were hungry. Maybe it was the wine, but they felt...intense.

I hid a shiver and took a big sip of my drink, trying to hide my cheeks turning red. This was it. There was no going back. Joining forces with Charles meant going against Nathan's warnings, but for some reason, I didn't care anymore.

I knew who I was fighting for now, and I would do whatever it took to protect them. Tonight was just the beginning. The g