Miles stared at me for a long moment, then burst into laughter.
"That's a good one, Juliana. You almost had me there."
I blinked, caught off guard. "What?"
"Come on," he said, wiping tears from his eyes. "You, the legendary Dr. Emma Bella? The reclusive genius who revolutionized solar energy conversion? That's hilarious."
Relief washed over me, mingled with a touch of irritation. I'd finally told the truth, and he thought it was a joke.
"I'm serious—" I started, but Miles cut me off.
"I get it now," he said, nodding. "You're sleeping with Griffin Rocky, aren't you? That's how you got that consulting gig."
My mouth fell open. "What? No!"
"It's okay, I won't judge," Miles continued, misreading my shock. "The man's powerful, wealthy, not bad looking for his age. Though I didn't peg you for the type to sleep your way up."
Nathaniel stepped forward, his jaw tight. "Watch your mouth, Finch."
