Finally, he let out a slow breath.
"Alright then."
His voice was lower now. Reluctant. Resigned. But no longer angry.
His eyes locked onto hers through the screen.
"I'll see you at the party."
There was a pause before he added firmly, "Be there by eight."
"Got it."
Juliet's smile immediately brightened.
The happiness on her face was impossible to miss, and despite his attempt to remain stern, she could see the corners of Cassian's mouth twitch ever so slightly before the call ended.
***
Alexa stepped through the doors of Jacobs Capital Group, the sharp click of her heels echoing across the polished marble floor as she entered the magnificent lobby. Her gaze swept over the familiar surroundings, and a sense of pride immediately filled her chest. The luxurious interior, the bustling employees, and the atmosphere of power surrounding the company all reminded her of how much influence she now held within these walls.
As she walked forward, several employees greeted her respectfully. Some nodded, while others offered polite smiles. Alexa accepted every greeting with practiced ease, her lips curving upward in satisfaction. Over the past few months, her position within the company had become increasingly special. Everyone knew who she was. More importantly, everyone knew she could walk into Vincent's office whenever she pleased without needing an appointment or permission from anyone.
That privilege alone made her feel superior.
Lifting her chin slightly, she carried herself with the confidence of someone who already considered herself the future mistress of the company and headed directly toward the CEO's office.
When she reached the door, she knocked once out of courtesy before pushing it open and stepping inside.
The spacious office looked exactly as she remembered.
Everything was neat, orderly, and meticulously arranged. The modern décor was dominated by shades of white, black, and gray, reflecting Vincent's cold and disciplined personality. Sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows behind him, casting long beams of light across the office and illuminating the stacks of documents spread across his desk.
Vincent sat behind that desk, his attention focused entirely on the paperwork before him.
The moment the door opened, however, his head snapped up.
For a brief second, something flashed across his face.
Anticipation.
Hope.
His eyes immediately locked onto the doorway as he called out almost instinctively.
"Juliet?"
The single word struck Alexa like a slap.
The smile on her face froze before slowly disappearing.
A flicker of displeasure crossed her features, and her fingers curled tightly at her sides.
Across the room, Vincent's expression changed just as quickly.
The anticipation vanished from his eyes the moment he realized it was Alexa, not Juliet.
His body visibly stiffened.
