Chapter 67
Lena's POV
I took another step back, my polite smile vanishing. "Mr. Hargrove, if you're interested in the case, we can schedule a meeting at my office. Tonight isn't appropriate."
His expression darkened. "Lena, you're a smart woman. You should know that in our world, some things can't be solved by legal documents alone. Connections, resources, cooperation—they all require... sincerity."
"My sincerity is reflected in my professional capabilities, not in anything else."
He let out a cold laugh. "You think leaving Madison and opening a small firm gives you the power to stand on your own in Silverton? Without clients, without backing—how long do you think you'll last?"
I forced down the surge of anger. "I earn my clients through the quality of my work."
"Is that so?" He stepped closer, his voice dropping to a low threat. "What if I put the word out in our circles that Lena Grant doesn't play by the rules, that she's difficult to work with? How many people do you think will still want to hire you?" He paused, his gaze cold. "Silverton's a small town, Lena. Cross me, and your firm will die a very ugly death."
My chest tightened, but I kept my voice steady. "Are you threatening me?"
"I'm just stating facts." He shrugged with mock casualness. "You can choose to cooperate, take this case, and make some useful connections. Or..." His smile turned cruel. "You can stick to your principles and see how far they get you."
I drew in a slow breath, meeting his eyes. "I'm sorry, Mr. Hargrove. I won't accept those terms. If you have doubts about my professional abilities, I suggest you find another lawyer."
His face went dark. "You'll regret this."
He turned and walked away, leaving me standing alone.
My hand trembled slightly as I gripped my champagne glass.
Did I do the right thing? If he really blacklists me, what happens to the firm? Diana, Rachel, Sophia—can I protect them?
Footsteps approached quickly.
"What happened?" Diana appeared at my side, her gaze sharp. "I saw that guy's face. He looked pissed."
I forced a smile. "Nothing. He offered me a case. I turned it down."
Diana's eyes narrowed. "Did he give you trouble?"
I shook my head. "Don't worry about it. Let's go."
Diana studied me for a long moment, clearly unconvinced. But she didn't push. "Alright. But if something's wrong, you need to tell me."
I nodded, though my mind was already calculating how to handle Victor's retaliation.
---
Rowan's POV
"Sir, there's an event tonight, and the overseas project meeting. Should I postpone the meeting?"
Jack placed a tablet on my desk. I glanced at the schedule without much interest. Another social event, another room full of people making small talk. I wasn't in the mood for any of that right now.
"The meeting stays. Cancel the event." I kept my focus on the contract in front of me. "And Jack—decline any social events going forward. Business meetings only."
"Of course, sir." Jack picked up the tablet and headed for the door.
Then something tugged at the edge of my thoughts.
"Jack."
He stopped, hand on the doorknob. "Yes, sir?"
I kept my tone casual. "That event tonight—legal industry people attending?"
"Yes, sir. Annual legal gala at the Grandview. Most of the prominent firms in Silverton will be represented."
I set down my pen. "Pull up the guest list."
Jack hesitated for half a second—long enough for me to know he'd caught on—but he pulled out his phone and swiped through. "Let me see... Madison & Associates, Miller & Associates, Grant & Clarke..."
"Grant & Clarke?"
His finger paused on the screen. "Yes. Ms. Grant is confirmed."
I leaned back in my chair. "Change of plans. I'll attend."
Jack's expression didn't shift, but I saw the flicker of understanding in his eyes. "I'll arrange the car for seven-thirty."
"Make it seven."
"Yes, sir."
He left, and I turned back to the window.
I told myself it was just... pragmatism. Keeping an eye on potential threats to Lena.
That's all.
---
The Grandview's ballroom glittered under crystal chandeliers, the air thick with champagne and calculated charm. I arrived late on purpose—less small talk that way.
Colin intercepted me the moment I stepped inside. "Rowan! Didn't think you'd show."
"Last-minute decision."
His grin widened. "Sure it was." He leaned in, lowering his voice. "Heard your ex is here. That why you came?"
I gave him a flat look. "I'm here for business."
"Right." He didn't believe me for a second. "Well, she's over there. Corner near the windows, talking to some guy I don't recognize."
I followed his gaze—and there she was.
Lena stood with her back to me, wearing a deep navy dress that was all clean lines and quiet elegance. Professional. Controlled. Everything she always was in public.
The man in front of her stepped closer, saying something I couldn't hear. She took a small step back.
My jaw tightened.
"Who is that?"
Colin squinted. "Victor Hargrove. CEO of Hargrove Industries. Manufacturing guy. Ruthless reputation—heard he blacklisted a legal team a few years ago for refusing his terms."
I kept my expression neutral. "Stay here."
"Rowan—"
I was already moving.
---
By the time I reached her, Hargrove was gone. Lena stood alone, her hand gripping a champagne glass, her knuckles white.
Diana appeared at her side, speaking in low, urgent tones. Lena shook her head, her smile tight.
Something was wrong.
I crossed the remaining distance, stopping a few feet away. "Lena."
She turned, surprise flickering across her face before she smoothed it away. "Rowan. I didn't expect to see you here."
"Last-minute decision." I kept my tone even. "You alright?"
"I'm fine." Her answer came too quickly.
"What did Hargrove want?"
Her eyes narrowed slightly. "How do you know about that?"
"I saw you talking to him."
Diana crossed her arms. "He wanted more than just legal advice, that's for damn sure."
Lena shot her a look. "Diana—"
"What did he say?" I kept my voice calm, though my hands curled into fists at my sides.
"It's not your concern, Rowan." She straightened her shoulders. "I can handle it."
"That's not what I asked."
"And I'm not answering." Her tone sharpened. "We're not married anymore. My business isn't yours to manage."
I held her gaze. "Fine." Then I turned and walked away. But I wouldn't let it slide.
I found Jack near the bar. "Get me everything on Victor Hargrove. Business dealings, reputation, legal disputes. I want it in an hour."
Jack didn't ask questions. "Yes, sir."
I glanced back across the room. Lena was still standing with Diana, her posture stiff, her expression unreadable.