Kate stood in front of the mirror, choosing a dress for the night. The gala was high-profile, hosted by the European company that had acquired Grayson's stolen prototype. They were attending as VIP guests—though for her, it was clearly a corporate minefield. Powerful people, champagne, fake conversations… and an ongoing investigation.

On top of everything, she had to deal with Grayson… and the nerves he triggered without even trying.

When she stepped out of the room, she found both men sprawled on the sofa. Mason had his feet on the coffee table, popping grapes into his mouth. Grayson, on the other hand, looked tense, arms crossed, jaw locked.

She had no idea why.

"Well?" she asked, turning on her heels and raising an eyebrow.

The black dress clung to her body, thin straps over her shoulders, and a slit that ran dangerously high on her thigh. Mason shot upright as if someone had electrocuted him.

"Holy hell, sweetheart…" he said with a slow smile. "Are you planning to cause