Page 108 of The Silver Fox Brother

"You've been living in a hotel for three weeks while working on my project and you didn't think to mention this?"

Winter stands, her hands flat on her desk.

"It's personal. Not relevant to the work. And honestly, it's not really any of your business."

There's defiance in her voice now, irritation cutting through the professional veneer.

. "It's absolutely relevant. You need stability to do your job well," I say.

"I assure you, my living situation hasn't affected my work. The project is ahead of schedule."

"That's not the point."

"Then what is the point?"

"The point is you shouldn't be living in a hotel. Let me help." My words ring more like a command than a plea.

Winter crosses her arms. "I don't need help."

"I have corporate apartments. Fully furnished, move-in ready. You can use one until you find permanent housing."

"That's not necessary."

"It's practical. And it's already decided."

Winter's eyes flash. "You can't just decide—"

"I can, and I did. Marcus will have the details by the end of day."

She stares at me, and I can see the war happening behind her eyes. Pride versus practicality. Independence versus accepting help she clearly needs.

"I don't take charity," she says, her voice tight.

"It's not charity. It's a business resource I'm offering to someone working on my most important project. You want to refuse, fine. But explain to me how living in a hotel for weeks makes more sense than accepting a temporary apartment at no cost to you."

Winter's mouth opens, then closes. She can't argue with the logic, and we both know it.

"I don't—" she starts.

"Please."

The word stops her mid-sentence.

I don't use that word often. Don't ask when I can direct. Don't request when I can demand.

But I use it now.

"Please," I say again, quieter this time. "Let me help."

Winter looks at me for a long moment. I can see her resistance wavering, practicality winning over pride.

"Fine," she says finally.

"Temporary. Until I find my own place."

"Agreed."

She sits back down, her shoulders releasing tension I didn't realize she was carrying.