Noah set down his sandwich after a few bites. His fingers tapped the counter once. Then stopped.
"There's an investor event," Noah said, "on Wednesday."
'Wednesday?'
Levi looked up to meet Noah's eyes. They were fixed on his plate.
Levi's mind immediately went to the showcase Marcus had scheduled on Wednesday.
'Marcus.'
The showcase was Wednesday.
Marcus had mentioned it casually during their conversation, calling it a high-profile event. Independent audience. Perfect timing for a debut.
Wednesday night.
The same night as Noah's investor dinner.
Levi's expression didn't change, but something cold settled in his chest.
Marcus knew. He had to know. The man was too connected, and too informed not to know about major Sterling company events. And he'd scheduled the showcase anyway.
It was not a conflict at all, but a choice.
Career and freedom on one side. Noah's political survival on the other.
