Griffin Rocky's stern expression melted into a wide smile as he stared at me.
"I didn't expect to see you here tonight!" His voice carried across the silent room. "What a pleasant surprise!"
I froze, mind racing. The entire room was watching us, including Imogen and Liam. Griffin was my employee at Bella Technologies. He couldn't expose me here.
I shot him a warning look, hoping he'd catch my meaning.
"Mr. Rocky," I said carefully. "I didn't expect to see you either."
Griffin's eyes widened slightly as understanding dawned on him. He adjusted his approach seamlessly.
"Please, call me Griffin," he said warmly, taking my hand. "Everyone, this is Juliana Johnson. One of the most brilliant minds I've encountered in years."
Whispers rippled through the crowd. I could practically hear their thoughts: How does insignificant Juliana know Griffin Rocky?
Liam pushed through the crowd, Imogen at his heels. His face was a mask of disbelief.
