Ryley crossed the room and took the seat beside him.
Leo didn't look away, even then, his attention following in the quiet, unflinching way of someone who noticed more than he admitted.
"I saw the news. I'm sorry you had to go through that," Ryley said.
Something softened in Leo's face—not the public charm he could summon on cue, but a flicker of something meant for Ryley alone.
"Don't worry. I'm fine now," he replied, his tone calm but touched with the barest warmth, as if the reassurance was for Ryley more than himself.
Starla exhaled, her fingers brushing the edge of the envelope but not quite touching it. "I'll get straight to the point. The collaboration project… we can't proceed."
Leo's jaw set, the shift subtle but sharp. "Starla, that's not fair. Is this because of the scandal?" His tone was controlled, but Ryley could feel the tension radiating off him.
