Chapter 73

Alexander

I made my way across the crowded room, catching snippets of conversations about property values and market trends. Marcus Thompson stood near the floor-to-ceiling windows, deep in conversation with someone I recognized from the city planning commission. His animated gestures suggested he was in the middle of pitching another one of his grand ideas.

I glanced back and spotted Madison observing the room with practiced discretion. The emerald dress I’d chosen for her drew appreciative glances, but she maintained her professional demeanor. Good girl. The way she carried herself tonight—poised yet reserved—made me want to drag her into one of the private rooms and mess up her perfect composure.

Focus, Alexander. Business first.

I turned my attention back to Marcus, who was gesturing animatedly about his latest development plans. The champagne in my hand remained untouched as I approached the small group gathered around him.

“Mr. Knight!” Mar