"That money was yours the moment I gave it to you," Ashton said. "But if it makes you feel uneasy, you could give me part of the studio in return. Forty-nine percent?" I considered it. "Alright." His voice dropped. "If we're talking share transfers, we'll need a contract. I'll get someone on it." "We're going full corporate, huh? Fine. Use your legal team." "Will do." Silence settled in. I watched a droplet of condensation roll down the side of my glass and disappear into the tablecloth. He didn't check his phone. Just kept looking out the window, posture still, expression unreadable. I cleared my throat. "So... any update on Maxwell?" "Dismissed. Arrested. Under internal review for further sanctions. Legal's working on it." "Was anyone else involved?" "N

