Irina's POV
"Ms. Brent, how did you get in here? I was waiting to escort you," Karl panted, struggling to catch his breath. "I even thought you'd gotten lost."
"Used the back entrance," I replied calmly. "Front was swarming with people."
News about Mathew's transfer had created a media frenzy. Reporters packed the main gates like scavengers hunting for stories.
"Should've considered that option," Karl confessed, running his hand through his hair before fishing a card from his jacket. "Mr. Brent wanted me to give you this. His personal gratitude."
Mathew bobbed his head enthusiastically.
"That's unnecessary." I backed away, declining the card. "A thousand was what we agreed on. I won't accept payment I didn't earn."
Mathew's face lit up with respect. Adopting his most serious expression, he insisted, "Make it 1.5 million then. It's nothing. Just accept it."
