Warm air flooded the interior, chasing the chill from my skin. He handed me a bottle of water, his voice low and gentle. "Those photos won't see the light of day, Ms. Harding. You have my word."
My throat was raw. "Thank you."
He let out a quiet laugh. "Don't mention it. I simply couldn't stand watching someone who once beat me fall this low."
Joseph's company had always been Stephens Corp's fiercest rival. Years ago, I'd snatched several key projects right out from under him. After I stepped back from the company, his firm had become the thorn in Piers's side that he could never pull free.
The realization hit me like a bolt of lightning. This man could help me.
The water bottle crackled under my grip. I knew that once I opened my mouth, there would be no turning back.
But then I thought of my mother's death. The three babies I'd never gotten to hold. Every last humiliation I'd swallowed.
My gaze hardened. "Mr. Simmons, I want to propose a partnership."
"A partnership?" Joseph raised an eyebrow.