NINE

GRAYSON POV

"Sylvia? As in Sylvia Hanson, your ex-wife?" Jocelia was the first to react, her voice tinged with disbelief.

"Yes, the very Sylvia you all know," I confirmed, keeping my tone steady.

Alice let out a mocking chuckle. "What do you mean she's your partner? That stripper couldn't possibly own a company," she said with a sneer.

I felt my temper rise but kept it in check. "She does, and I would appreciate it if you didn't speak about her that way again," I warned, locking eyes with Alice.

She looked taken aback, her smile fading. "She will be moving here to help progress the partnership," I continued.

"Oh god," William groaned, his face contorting with distaste.

"I’m telling you this to prepare you," I said, ignoring his reaction. "You’re all going to be seeing her often, so you’d better act cool and professional."

Their protests began almost immediately, a chorus of disbelief and frustration. But I didn’t wait to hear them. I turned and left the study, heading straight for my