Noting that Lilah Morgan was punctual, but not so much it would appear she was overly eager for a job, Sloane took in her appearance. Attractive, by all means, and utterly self-possessed. Definitely a player. Which meant he was on his guard. Anyone with a passing familiarity to various members of the Derevko clan knew that beautiful smart brunettes were underestimated at one's peril.

On the other hand, it also meant that whatever else would happen, he wouldn't get bored, and he did love a challenge. When he caught Lilah's eye, he smiled and nodded, and rose once she approached the table to greet her.

"Now why I ever wasted my time during that charity talking to Linwood instead of you is a mystery to me,"

he says. "Welcome, Ms. Morgan."