The receptionist’s eyes widened slightly, likely noting the designer outfit I’d carefully chosen for this moment. She made a call, and minutes later, I was escorted to a corner office where Janette awaited.

Janette Dale. Gabriel’ right hand and, from what I’d gathered, his closest confidante. She was striking in a sharp, tailored suit, her dark hair swept into a sleek bun.

“Ms. Gray,” she greeted, her tone professional but guarded. “You’re a new name on the scene. Why MCC?”

I offered her a confident smile. “I see potential where others don’t. Your company has a reputation for innovation, but I believe it’s on the cusp of something… greater. With the right backing, it could dominate the market.”

Her skepticism was evident, but she listened intently as I laid out my pitch. I’d come prepared, presenting a portfolio that painted me as a savvy investor with a knack for turning opportunities into gold. Not just a supermodel.

An hour later, she leaned back in her chair, her expression thoughtful. “You’re bold, Ms. Gray. I like that. Let’s draft a contract and see where this goes.”

When I signed the investor agreement, satisfaction coursed through me.

ONE STEP CLOSER.