"Mr. McCormick would like to see you both. Please come with me," the man said politely.

Andrew's smile froze for a second, and he silently cursed, 'Damn it.'

Aspen quickly covered her mouth, nearly bursting into laughter. This guy thought he could just pocket the cash and sneak out? Not a chance. Just when one wave had passed, another one hit.

Derek himself had extended the invitation, and there was no way Andrew could slip away now.

"Well then, if Mr. McCormick is asking, of course we'll go. Please, lead the way," Andrew said with a suave smile, his composure quickly returning.

Aspen shot him a sideways glare, part irritated, part amused. She thought, 'Keep pretending, Mr. Calm-and-Collected.'

…

Inside a spacious and stately conference room, Derek sat at the head of the long table, observing everyone entering.

Andrew and Aspen were the last to walk in. Once seated, Derek smiled and said, "There's nothing urgent. I just wanted to speak to you all briefly. The government