Beck Harper wove through the crowd with practiced ease, his tailored suit marking him as one of Silicon Valley's elite. He approached Julian and Elara with a warm smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"Julian, great to see you." Beck extended his hand. "And Ms. Vance, you look stunning tonight."
Julian shook his hand firmly. "Beck. Enjoying the evening?"
"Certainly am." Beck's gaze lingered on Elara. "Your company's recent developments have everyone talking."
Elara nodded politely. "Thank you. We've been working hard."
Beck opened his mouth to respond, but his attention shifted as Jorge Robinson approached their small circle. Jorge's greeting was pointed.
"Julian, I was hoping to catch you." He deliberately ignored Elara's presence. "Do you have a moment to discuss the proposal I sent last week?"
Julian's posture stiffened slightly. "Jorge, you remember Elara Vance, my business partner?"
Jorge barely glanced at her. "Yes, of course. Now, about that proposal—"