Before I could fully absorb the surreal nature of the setting, Isadora approached with measured steps, holding a glass of wine and an expression that blended composure with unmistakable tension.
“Evan,” she said softly, her voice unexpectedly warm yet strained beneath the surface. “I did not anticipate seeing you here tonight.”
“I was not aware this was a corporate function,” I replied cautiously, struggling to reconcile workplace hierarchy with social informality. “Miles convinced me this was merely an ordinary celebration.”
Her gaze shifted briefly toward a group of distinguished guests positioned near the far wall, where several older executives observed her with a mixture of curiosity and strategic interest. Among them stood Patrick Harlow, her former partner and current industry rival, whose reputation for calculated aggression and quiet intimidation was widely recognized throughout professional circles.
Without further explanation, Isadora leaned closer, her voice lowering into a confidential whisper that carried an urgency I could neither ignore nor misunderstand.