If that scandal broke, Niall would face merciless destruction from the media vultures circling overhead.
Isaac's protective instincts toward his precious daughter couldn't have been more transparent.
Isaac despised sharing the same air as Veronica at events , yet his hunger for Dario's connections proved stronger than his disgust.
The moment Veronica disappeared into the ladies' room, he seized his opportunity, dragging Niall and Huxley straight to Dario like sharks scenting blood.
Isaac plastered on his most diplomatic smile. "Mr. Reid, what an honor to finally meet you. I'm Isaac Crystal, father to both Niall and Veronica."
Dario accepted the handshake with practiced courtesy. "Ah, Mr. Crystal. The pleasure is mine."
Isaac's eyes darted toward Niall before launching into his rehearsed performance. "I must apologize for Veronica's difficult nature. She and Niall have had their differences, and despite my best efforts to encourage sisterly harmony, Veronica remains impossibly headstrong..."
Dario tilted his head with feigned interest. "Is that right?"
"Unfortunately, yes." Isaac's sigh carried the weight of paternal disappointment before brightening artificially. "However, I'm tremendously grateful that Veronica has found herself in the orbit of someone as accomplished as you. As her father, it brings me great peace of mind. I understand she's now part of your organization. I hope you'll guide her with patience. She's completely in your capable hands."
The words dripped with fatherly concern and devotion.
Except Isaac had deliberately orchestrated this entire conversation during Veronica's absence.
Except he possessed intimate knowledge of Veronica's traumatic history and her tangled past with Cullen.
Dario might have swallowed the act completely under different circumstances.
Instead, he maintained his pleasant facade. "Your confidence is flattering, Mr. Crystal. Veronica possesses remarkable abilities. DataPulse considers itself fortunate to have secured her talents."
Isaac, Niall, and Huxley exchanged knowing glances, interpreting Dario's praise as empty politeness.
Given Veronica's questionable reputation, what meaningful contribution could she possibly make to someone of Dario's caliber?
She might handle filing duties or elementary coding tasks at best.
Naturally, Isaac kept these thoughts buried beneath his diplomatic mask.
Niall maintained her strategic silence while Huxley's lips curved in barely concealed contempt.
Isaac smoothly transitioned to his real objective. "Mr. Reid, I'm certain you're familiar with Niall's impressive credentials. She's harbored a passionate fascination with Echo for years and would consider an opportunity at DataPulse the pinnacle of her professional aspirations..."
Cullen had already secured Niall's upcoming introduction to Malcolm, virtually guaranteeing her extensive exposure to Echo's inner workings.
Yet DataPulse's meteoric rise demanded attention.
Dario's elite family background made him a valuable long-term ally. Cultivating their relationship could only benefit future endeavors.
Perhaps DataPulse partnerships awaited down the road.
Dario shifted his attention to Niall directly. "Your enthusiasm is admirable, Ms. Crystal. Your qualifications speak for themselves, and DataPulse would welcome someone of your caliber. However, my friendship with Veronica creates certain considerations..."
Niall had already abandoned her DataPulse ambitions. Her primary goal involved avoiding unnecessary conflict with Dario.
After all, their shared mentorship under Malcolm seemed increasingly likely.
Building bridges served her interests far better than burning them.
Dario's demeanor tonight carried significantly more warmth than their previous encounter at the corporate banquet.
Whether his apparent friendliness reflected genuine sentiment or calculated performance remained unclear, but time would reveal his true intentions.
Niall responded with gracious understanding. "Of course, Mr. Reid. I completely respect your position and won't pursue the matter further."
Dario's smile radiated approval. "Your consideration means a great deal, Ms. Crystal."
Their animated discussion appeared cordial and engaging from across the room.
Veronica emerged from the restroom to witness their cozy gathering, her footsteps faltering mid-stride.
Huxley caught her hesitation immediately, his satisfaction evident in his predatory grin.