That was why everyone turned toward Jimmy right then, terrified that he wouldn't be standing with them on a united front.

For his part, Jimmy knew what Nate was getting at.

In fact, if Charlie didn't have his life in a vice-grip, he would certainly seize such a risk-free deal to bail out instead of sticking with the partners.

That meant circumstances were different right now. Nate had no idea what Jimmy was aiming for—not only were they poaching ten Ares LLP partners, but they would also have Nate pay their wages.

This was the moment for good PR, and he had to use it as best as he could.

Turning toward Nate, he said coolly, "In your mind, we were a different group when you set us up. Yet now, you want to poach me? Who do you think I'd side with?"

"You're already a board member!" Nate quickly exclaimed. "You're fundamentally different from them!"

Jimmy shook his head. "Strictly speaking, I don't count—not when I didn't claim a stake in the company."

Then, turning toward the Ares