With Jarrod distracted, Nicole took the chance to slip outside.

The patio was buzzing, with a barbecue in full swing and big fans spreading cool air around. Guests mingled, holding drinks.

Nicole, her glass almost empty, went to get more of the fruity wine.

It was a plum drink, tangy and sweet, perfectly refreshing without being overpowering.

After getting her refill, Nicole looked for a place to sit. Suddenly, she was jostled by someone, causing her drink to splash all over her skirt and some on the other person's shoes.

"You bumped into me!" the man exclaimed. He was a bit on the heavier side and looked unkempt. Mistaking Nicole for one of the staff because of her outfit, he loudly blamed her.

Nicole was not pleased. It was clearly his fault for not paying attention, but he was trying to make it seem like hers. She met his gaze with a cold stare. "Actually, you're the one who ran into me."

"You worthless idiot, can't see a thing..." The greasy old man was mid-insult when he caught sight of Nicole's stunning looks. His eyes, which were dull a moment before, suddenly sparkled.

“Oh, what a beauty..." He looked Nicole over without hiding his interest. "A lady as lovely as you get a pass for anything. But, darling, you've done a number on my back with that bump. How do you plan to make it right?"

The mix of his sleazy voice and his balding head was disgusting.

Nicole immediately recognized the greasy old man as Deniz from the Vipo Group. He was a long-standing supplier for the Hampton family and the likely winner of their latest contract.

Nicole's own company was in the running, just behind the Vipo Group.

Getting Deniz out of the picture could just give her the edge she needed.

They had met years before, but it appeared Deniz didn't remember her.

A cold look passed through Nicole's eyes, indicating she was ready to deal with both past and present grievances.

Nicole looked down, pretending to be shy. “What would you like me to do to make up for it?"

Deniz's excitement was visible, yet he tried to sound serious. "My dear, these shoes of mine are tailor-made, worth a fortune and you can't find them here."

Nicole acted surprised, playing the innocent. “Are they really that expensive?"

Deniz laughed. "They are, but I'll let it slide. Think of it as making friends with a lovely lady like you. Just drink a glass in apology to me. How's that sound?"

Nicole was in disbelief. "Is that all?"