Hannah finally turned to look at him.


    “Seems Like you’re the one who can’t take a joke.


    ”


    “Okay, okay.


    ” Maloney raised his hands in concession, “I can’t win an argument against you.


    But I might need your help with a business deal in two days.


    A potential client who almost went with ourpetitor wants to meet and assess whichpany is more sincere.


    ”


    Hannah asked, “Isn’t negotiating deals your specialty? Why would you need my assistance?”


    Maloney reclined on the sofa.


    “I don’t have a widework here.


    You can’t expect me to handle all negotiations solo, can you?”


    “In two days.


    .


    ”


    Hannah paused thoughtfully.


    “I can’t.


    I’m apanying a friend to Palmetan.


    ”


    This intrigued Maloney.


    “I’m also heading to Palmetan for business in two days.


    Perhaps after you’re finished with your friend, you could join me for the deal.


    ”


    Dotson blinked in surprise.


    “Really? Where are you meeting?”


    “It’s on a private ind.


    They haven’t specified the exact location.


    Someone will pick me up when I arrive.


    ”


    After Maloney finished speaking, an awkward silence enveloped the room.


    “Is there something I need to know?” Maloney’s brows furrowed, puzzled by the sudden hush.


    He nced at Hannah, whose expression had darkened, then at Franklyn, engrossed in his rehab exercises.


    Franklyn remained silent.


    “Why the sudden silence?” Mal


    ney asked Dotson.


    Dotson’s demeanor turned grave.Text property ? N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org.


    “Because we’re headed to that ind too.


    ”


    “Well, isn’t that a good coincidence?” Maloney attempted to Lighten the mood with a smile.


    “We can tackle both matters together.


    ”


    “Do you truly believe that?”


    Hannah’s tone was sober as she set the remote down, her expression turning serious.


    “I tend to disagree.


    ”


    Maloney, unaware of the ind’s background, felt a sense of unease at her serious demeanor.


    “Not a coincidence? Then enlighten me!”


    “There are too many coincidences here,” she replied, her eyes reflecting a deeper concern.


    Hannah proceeded to exin recent events and the ind’s secrets to Maloney.


    “Many influential people from those cities are converging because the ind is going up for auction.


    I have a feeling some people are going there with ulterior motives, not just for business.


    ”


    She didn’t borate further, but Maloney grasped her implication.


    “You mean they have other agendas?”