"She's making allegations based on documents she isn't authorized to discuss."
I looked toward him.
"I haven't disclosed private account details or given anyone a confidential document. I'm warning the intended investor that the release schedule may differ from what was approved."
Whitmore's face flushed.
He turned toward Mr. Lam.
"Raymond, you can't seriously believe this."
Mr. Lam's voice became colder.
"I believe forty million dollars deserves verification."
The room went silent.
Then he looked toward his adviser.
"Call Irene."
The adviser nodded.
I recognized the name.
Irene Ho was Jade Harbor's senior transaction counsel.
Her office had been among the parties copied on the original transaction communications.
She was experienced, cautious, and known for refusing to approve closing documents she hadn't examined properly.
Whitmore looked increasingly uncomfortable.
"Raymond, we're wasting time."
Mr. Lam didn't answer.
He was staring at the folder.
Then he turned toward the gray-suited executive.
"Do not release funds or confirm closing until counsel completes a version review."
The executive nodded.
"Understood."
Whitmore's hands tightened.
Then he looked toward me.
His voice dropped.
"You've made a serious mistake."
I swallowed.
The threat was quiet.
But everyone nearby heard it.
Mr. Lam looked up immediately.
"Charles."
Whitmore turned.
"Yes?"
"Don't threaten her."
For a moment, Whitmore seemed genuinely surprised.
Then he laughed nervously.
"I'm not threatening anyone."
Mr. Lam looked toward me.
"Miss Bennett, would you be willing to speak with my counsel?"
I nodded.
"Through my attorney, yes."
He seemed to appreciate the answer.
"Good."
Then he took out his phone.
And the millionaire who had been laughing moments earlier realized that the conversation no longer belonged to him.
Paul Donovan arrived during the confusion.
He entered the private room carrying the anxious expression of a manager who had heard that one of his most important guests was unhappy.
"Is everything all right?"
Whitmore turned sharply.
"No."
Paul looked toward me.
His expression changed.
"What happened?"
Whitmore pointed.
"Your waitress has interfered with a confidential business transaction."
I felt my stomach tighten.
Paul stared at me.
"Naomi?"
I took a breath.
"There's a concern about a document. Mr. Lam has asked his legal team to review it."
Paul looked horrified.