She didn’t back down from Dominic’s taunts. Instead, she retaliated—with precision.

And when it came to raw talent, she made him look utterly incompetent.

Every challenge he threw at her, she countered with effortless grace.

There was no question about it—she was extraordinary.

A woman who possessed both beauty and brilliance was impossible to ignore.

Julian had made his decision—he was going to pursue Amy.

So, he had someone investigate her background and soon uncovered more about her.

She was divorced. She had a child.

Though Julian himself had never married, in their modern, sophisticated world, it was hardly a scandal.

When he discovered she was a prodigious violinist, Julian secured an invitation to an elite music symposium—hoping it would be the perfect gesture to win her favor.

Mr. Pendleton was notoriously selective about his protégés, but as a member of the influential Montclair family, Julian had no trouble obtaining an invitation.

But unlike his past lovers, who either accepted gifts eagerly or feigned reluctance before yielding—Amy surprised him.

She asked what he wanted in return.

Julian had always believed that giving a woman a gift was simply what a man did.

But he was nothing if not diplomatic. With a charming smile, he said, "Dominic is one of the judges on our panel. His outburst caused you distress today. This invitation is merely an apology."

Amy arched a brow. "And how did you know I played the violin, Mr. Montclair?"

"I’ve admired your work for some time, Ms. Sinclair," Julian replied smoothly.

But Amy wasn’t naïve enough to be swayed by flattery.

Of all the ways to compensate her, he just happened to offer exactly what she needed most—access to the symposium?

Under normal circumstances, Amy would have refused.

But right now, she needed that invitation.

"So, Mr. Montclair, what exactly do you want from me?"

Julian could tell Amy wasn’t the type to accept favors lightly, so he didn’t press.

"Your French is impeccable, Ms. Sinclair. My team is searching for someone young, talented, and fluent—exactly like you—to assist with translations. Would you be interested?"

Amy hesitated. "Most of my time is dedicated to performances. I’m not sure I could balance translation work on top of that."

"No need to worry," Julian assured her. "You wouldn’t be required daily—only when we need you and you’re available. Most of our assignments are music-related, which aligns perfectly with your expertise. As for compensation, we offer a fifty percent commission based on contract value. We’ll also cover all travel and living expenses. And if the client breaches the contract, you’ll still receive half of the penalty fee."

Julian’s offer was generous—almost suspiciously so.

After all, his translation team operated at a level far beyond ordinary agencies.

Their contracts were worth multiples—sometimes dozens of times—the industry standard.

Joining his team would be a career-defining opportunity.

Not to mention, it could grant her access to renowned musicians.

Amy weighed her options, then smiled.

"Alright."

Julian extended his hand. "Then, Ms. Sinclair, I look forward to working with you."

Amy shook it politely. "Likewise, Mr. Montclair."

Solmaris, the Harrington Estate.

A poised young woman sat by the floor-to-ceiling window, scrolling through her phone.

"Connor, it seems Evelyn Harrington is trending again."

The young man across from her barely glanced up. "She’s been in the spotlight quite often lately."

The woman took a delicate sip of tea. "Perhaps Evelyn is trying to prove something—to show Father and our brothers what she’s truly capable of."