Page 128 of The Encore’s Crown

The name is familiar. I’ve seen it attached to press releases and interviews about digital strategy, touring, and artist development. I take his hand.

“Natalia Sawadzka.”

“I know.”

My eyebrows rise.

“That sounded threatening.”

“It wasn’t intended that way.” His gaze moves briefly over my face, but not with the empty appraisal I’m used to. “You were the one who posted from Mizuha.”

I stare at him. Julian smiles.

“We keep track of media accounts around the band. Security, promotional opportunities, potential leaks.”

“You tracked my spa day?”

“Our digital team did. You made Mizuha look better than their own campaign managed to.”

A tiny spark of pride survives the wasteland inside me.

“I’m very talented.”

“So I’ve noticed.”

I take a sip of champagne to hide how much I enjoy hearing that from someone whose job it is to understand the difference between attention and skill.

“What do you do?” I ask, even though I already know some of it.

“International President of Artist Strategy.”

“That sounds made up.”

“Most executive titles are. Roughly translated, it means helping musicians make money while convincing them they haven't sold their souls.”

I laugh. The sound feels strange after weeks of forcing it.

Julian glances toward the center of the party. “Are you represented?”

“For what, content? Not currently.”

“You should be.”

“I’m working on making myself worth the trouble.”

His eyes settle on mine.

“I don’t think that’s the issue.”

The compliment lands smoothly. No exaggerated look at my body. Just enough interest to make his intention clear without demanding I respond to it. I like him for that. Or I might, if liking men didn’t currently feel like a design flaw.

Across the room, Radhika laughs. I refuse to look. Julian follows the sound anyway, then glances back at me. He looks toward Kasia beneath Rafe’s arm.

“She's your sister, correct? Doctor Sawadzka.”

“Everyone knows Kasia.”

There must be more bitterness in my voice than I intended because Julian studies me for a moment.