"I've admired your work for quite some time. The way you've built your brand from a small studio into a fashion house of real significance. The attention to detail, the refusal to compromise on quality. It's remarkable." Vane said.
Thalia's lips curved into a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. She set the card down and leaned back in her chair.
"Flattery usually means someone wants money," she said.
Vane's smile widened, genuine amusement flickering in his eyes behind the gold-rimmed glasses. "Not money, Luna. Investment."
Thalia's eyebrow arched slightly. She rose from her chair and moved toward the door to close it fully, creating a more intimate space. As she returned to her seat, she studied him anew.
"Investment," Thalia repeated. She settled back into her chair, folding her hands on the desk before her. "Explain."
