Orla Moreau's victorious smile froze on her face as her eyes scanned the email from Dr. Payne. The blood drained from her cheeks.
"What does it say?" Jasper leaned forward eagerly.
She swallowed hard, trying to compose herself. The message was brief but devastating:
*Ms. Blackwood, I must decline your request. I do not work with Covington Technologies under current management. Please do not contact this account again using Colette Blackwood's credentials. -Dr. Payne*
"They're... considering it," she lied, forcing brightness into her voice. "Dr. Payne just needs more details about the project specifications."
"Let me see," Jasper reached for her phone.
Orla quickly pulled it away. "No need! I'll forward you the response later. They've asked some technical questions I need to review with my mother first."
Jasper's eyes narrowed with suspicion. "You said your mother was traveling."
