Jenna extended her hand. "We're honored to be included. The international scope of PWC's work is inspiring."
Isabella clasped Jenna's hand between both of hers, simultaneously welcoming and assessing. "Fresh perspectives keep organizations vital. Your background in corporate communications interests me, particularly your security protocols experience."
"Corporate environments taught me the importance of discretion," Jenna replied smoothly. "Information compartmentalization protects organizational integrity."
Isabella released her hand with an approving nod. "A philosophy we share. Perhaps we'll find an opportunity to discuss further during tomorrow's events."
As Isabella moved away, Michelle leaned close. "She's confirming her presence at tomorrow's shipment. Critical evidence."
"Recorded," Jenna confirmed, subtly touching her pendant.
They separated, Michelle gravitating toward Sienna while Jenna approached the bar where Nicole stood alone.
"Quite the exclusive gathering," Jenna commented, accepting champagne.
Nicole smiled, something sharp beneath her friendly demeanor. "Final preparations celebrations are always intimate. We keep sensitive operational details to a small circle."
"Smart," Jenna agreed. "In my experience, project leaks typically came from peripheral team members lacking context."
"You understand operational security well for someone in communications."
"Michelle's influence," Jenna replied. "She instituted tight information controls during our GreenTech days."
The conversation shifted as Nicole mentioned tomorrow's interview. "I rarely discuss my journey with PWC."
"I'd be especially interested in your community outreach," Jenna replied carefully. "Particularly with younger women like Beatrice Leblanc. Her attendance at your workshops suggests real connection."
Something flickered in Nicole's eyes before her expression smoothed. "Beatrice showed potential, though her lifestyle choices concerned me. Such a tragedy, what happened."
Jenna felt a chill at the casual reference to one of their victims. Before she could press further, Mina appeared at her side.
"Isabella was asking about you," Mina said, hand brushing Jenna's arm with deliberate intimacy. "She's particularly interested in your technical background."
Nicole's expression cooled slightly. "Don't monopolize our newest member, Mina."
"Tomorrow's schedule is quite full," Mina countered with a graceful smile. "The shipment’s arriving at midnight, processing until dawn, then distribution preparations."
The casual confirmation of their intelligence represented final acceptance. Jenna allowed appropriate interest to show.
"I've been curious about the logistics. Managing international shipments must require significant coordination."
Mina leaned closer. "The port security arrangements alone took months. Customs officials required substantial...incentives."
"Bribes," Jenna interpreted, matching Mina's confidential tone.
"Investment in operational security." Mina winked. "The contents make such precautions necessary. These aren't standard educational materials."
Mina's hand found the small of Jenna's back. "Perhaps after tomorrow's operations finish, we could celebrate privately. Isabella believes you would be valuable in our South American expansion."
The invitation carried clear implications. Jenna maintained her composed smile while calculating her response.
"I'm flattered by Isabella's assessment, though any future plans would naturally include Michelle."
"Of course," Mina agreed, though her expression suggested otherwise. "Partners in all things."
From across the room, Jenna caught Michelle's eye, noting the subtle tension in her posture. "Speaking of partners, I should check in with mine."
She joined Michelle near the fireplace where Sienna was describing tomorrow's agenda. Their shoulders brushed as Jenna settled beside her, an unconscious seeking of connection.
