Doug shrugged, unfazed. “Then find something. The public doesn’t want another hero billionaire. They want someone they can tear down, someone they can see as human. He’s hiding something, Emery. It’s your job to figure out what.”

I hesitated, my mind racing. It was a tempting offer, but Lachlan Gray wasn’t just another businessman. His company, Gray Technologies, was responsible for some of the world’s most cutting-edge innovations in AI and cyber security. He employed thousands, maybe tens of thousands, and had a reputation for ethical, if secretive, business practices. He wasn’t a villain—but then again, no one ever looked like one at first glance.

“Fine,” I said, my resolve hardening. “I’ll take it.”

Doug smirked, pleased. “That’s the spirit. And don’t waste any time. He’s hosting a charity gala tomorrow night—some fancy art exhibit downtown. If you can get in, it’ll be the perfect place to start. Just don’t let him know you’re digging.”