After meeting Charlie a few times, Julien had come to learn his way of manipulation, knowing when to back off or advance, or when he should disguise those moves as bluffs.

His offer to pick up the tab for the partners' wages was a standard strategic retreat—a gesture of feigned sincerity, but Nate was absolutely sincere in contrast.

If anything, Nate was thrilled for no other reason than the great Mr. Rothschild being so kind and defending him, which already left him astounded.

Moreover, Juli