Page 23 of Secret Heir For The Billionaire Twin

He rises as I step inside, fastening the button of a navy suit jacket that fits him with the effortless precision of custom tailoring. A crisp white shirt disappears beneath a muted blue tie, and the morning sunlight spilling through the windows catches the strands of silver beginning to thread through his otherwise dark hair. It isn't enough to make him look older.

If anything, it makes him more striking. His gaze settles on mine, steady and unreadable.

"Good morning, Ms. Callahan."

"Good morning."

"I trust Daniel took good care of you."

"He always seems one step ahead."

A faint smile touches his mouth, and for the briefest moment, the dimples I'd noticed yesterday become visible before disappearing almost as quickly as they'd appeared.

"He prides himself on that."

"I gathered."

He gestures toward the chair opposite him.

"Shall we begin?"

I set my portfolio on the table and take my seat, resisting the instinct to study him any longer than necessary. Journalists spend their careers observing people, but there's a difference between professional observation and simple distraction. I'm determined not to confuse the two. I slide the first page of questions from my portfolio, click my recorder on, and meet his eyes.

"Let's."

Julian reaches forward and switches on a second recorder positioned neatly beside his legal pad.

"I record every interview conducted inside Blackwell," he says.

"Not for approval or editorial oversight. It ensures there's never a dispute about what was said."

"I appreciate that."

"I assumed you would."

I glance at the recorder before looking back at him.

"For the record, I maintain editorial independence."

"I wouldn't have agreed to this if you didn't."

There's no hesitation in his answer. No carefully crafted disclaimer about accuracy or mutual review. He simply states it as though it's the most obvious condition in the room. It's unexpectedly refreshing. I clear my throat and settle into the familiar rhythm that's carried me through hundreds of interviews.

"Today's conversation is primarily about Blackwell Industries' culture and leadership philosophy. Future interviews will focus on specific divisions, historical context, and operational strategy."

Julian nods once.

"Understood."

"If there's a question you can't answer because of confidentiality, just say so."

"I will."

"And if I ask something uncomfortable?"

"I imagine that's inevitable."

The corner of my mouth twitches before I can stop it.