Page 144 of The Silver Fox Brother

Winter keeps walking. I glance over my shoulder and watch her body move, migrating toward the middle of the room. I turn back to the two men in front of me. Simon and Gregory. Both investors I've worked with on past developments.

"Knox, good to see you," Simon says, extending his hand.

I shake it. "Likewise."

Gregory leans in. "Did you ever close the deal on that Chicago waterfront development?"

I raise an eyebrow. "Wouldn't you like to know? I'm sure you'll hear about it in Forbes."

Simon laughs. "Always so modest."

"It's part of my charm."

They continue talking, asking about market trends and upcoming projects, but I'm barely listening. I glance over my shoulder again, trying to keep my eye on Winter.

That's when I see it. She's stopped. Talking to a man. They're laughing, engaging like they know each other. The man leans in slightly, says something that makes Winter smile.

A tinge of fury rises in my chest. I have no idea what's coming over me, but I don't like it. I try to step away from Simon and Gregory, but another person intercepts me. Another colleague introducing me to his wife.

"Knox, this is my wife, Peggy. Peggy, this is Knox Sterling."

"Nice to meet you," I say, shaking her hand.

She smiles warmly and starts talking about the charity the event is supporting, but I'm not paying attention. My eyes are on Winter. She's still talking to that man. He's tall, dark hair, looks younger than me. Whatever he's saying, Winter is enjoying it.

I don't like this at all.

I excuse myself mid-conversation and stride toward them. My heart is beating in my ears, loud and insistent. I reach them and interrupt without hesitation.

"Excuse me."

I'm looking at Winter but glaring at the man beside her. I put my hand on the small of her back, firm and possessive.

"I just wanted to let you know our table is over here."

Winter looks at me. "Oh, thanks. I'll be right there."

She pauses.I look at her, then at the man, then back at her. Iextend my hand toward him. I need to know who this is.

"Knox Sterling," I say.

The man looks at me and nods. "Tom Smith."

He pauses, then adds, "Sterling. Yeah, I know that name. You're infamous. Especially around these parts."

I hold his gaze, my jaw tight.

"I'm guessing you two know each other already?"

Winter's eyes widen slightly.

"Yes, actually. I know Tom from a project a couple years ago. I was working on a renovation in Manhattan."

"Yeah," Tom says, smiling at Winter.

"Winter was a great referral. Didn't actually expect to see her here."

He gives her a longing smile that makes my blood pressure spike.