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It's a lesson for me: The nuances of journalism cannot always be defined by strict rules and regulations.
"Congratulations, Chloe!” I tell her with all sincerity. “You've proven that there's more than one way to uncover the truth. Let's put this new information into our story!"
She gives me a radiant smile and rushes off to share the news with Martha and Rosie.
I should have known, though, that the matter would not be so simple.
A few hours later, Jonathan comes storming into my office. He tells me something that undoes all the progress I think I have made with Chloe.
"What? You’re telling me that Chloe is planning to email the whistleblower's workplace?” I snap at him. “Despite knowing that it will compromise our whole investigation?"
He meets my gaze, a mix of frustration and concern in his eyes. "Yes, Stephen, it's true. I tried to stop her, but she seemed convinced that you would support her actions."
I grip the edge of his desk, my jaw clenching as anger surges within me. "How could she assume such a thing? Has she lost all sense?" On one hand, I sense that Chloe is impulsive enough to do such a thing, but on the other hand, I had expected more of her.
Jonathan leans back in his chair, a resigned look on his face. "Stephen, I think she's just caught up in her eagerness to make a difference. She sees herself as a crusader, willing to take risks for the greater good."
"But this goes beyond taking risks," I retort, my voice tinged with frustration. "We have protocols in place for a reason. We have a responsibility to protect our sources, to handle sensitive information with care. She’s planning to disregard all of that."
Jonathan sighs, his voice laced with concern. "I know, Stephen. I tried to make her see reason, but she was convinced that she knew what was best. She felt justified."
A surge of disappointment washes over me as I process his words. "This isn't the Chloe I thought I knew. She's lost sight of the bigger picture, of the consequences of her actions."
Jonathan leans forward, his expression earnest. "Stephen, I understand your frustration, but maybe it's time we have a serious conversation with her. We need to address these issues and make sure we're all on the same page."
“Great, let’s go talk to her,” I mutter with a mix of dejection and sarcasm in my tone.
If only I can stop thinking about undressing her and claiming her mine on the spot,I sigh in my head.
Chapter five
Chloe
Itakeadeepbreath as I make my way to Stephen's office. The tension is thick in the air, and my nerves are frayed enough as it is. Jonathan's betrayal stings, but I'm determined to defend myself against these false accusations.
I tap lightly on the door, barely giving it time to swing open before I slip inside. Stephen's hard gaze meets mine from across the room, and even in this state of rigid unease there's something sensual about his stature - so strong and commanding.
His suit jacket is gone, replaced by a tight white shirt that clings to every line of muscle on his broad chest, allowing me a glimpse of the turbulent tattoo prowling beneath it. As our eyes lock, his anger is palpable, but I can feel my own desire stirring in response. I stand tall, determined not to let him overpower me.
"What is this I hear about you planning to email the whistleblower's workplace?" he asks in a gruff tone.
I meet his gaze, my voice steady and resolute. "Stephen, that's not true. Jonathan is lying to you. I would never compromise our sources like that"
He scoffs and says, "Oh, really? And why should I believe you over my best friend?"
I can feel my patience waning, frustration bubbling up within me. "Because Jonathan has his own agenda. He's trying to drive a wedge between us, Stephen. Do you really believe that he has no personal vendetta against me?"
His eyes narrow, his voice filled with anger. "And do you really think that he would compromise the company that the two of us built together?"
I shake my head, my voice growing sharper. "Yes, I actually do think that. You know this isn’t about me. It's about Jonathan's insecurities and his need to control everything around him. Just like he did with Victoria."
His face reddens, his anger pulsating through the room. "Don't you dare compare the feud with Victoria to this situation! You know nothing about what happened between them!"
I take a step closer, my voice dripping with frustration and indignation. "Oh, I know enough, Stephen. I know that he’s still holding onto the past, letting it cloud his judgment. And you’re enabling that kind of behavior.” I know I’m being reckless but right now, I don’t care. “In fact,” I continue, throwing all caution to the wind, “both of you are behaving like immature teenage boys, hating on the girl who turned down Jonathan and spreading rumors about her family. That is some peak high school drama, Stephen!"
My words hang in the air as he stares at me like he wants to devour me on the spot. And Fuck I wish he would. The heat between us is palpable, and for a moment, it feels like the room is too small for the two of us.
Stephen's jaw clenches, and his gaze hardens. "You have no right to judge me, Chloe.” By now, he has stepped quite close to me, and once again, I can see those eyes wandering all over my body. “You’re just a naïve girl,” he whispers in a hoarse voice. “And maybe someone needs to bend you over and put you in your place.” His eyes are burning with some strange desire as he walks even closer to me, forcing me to take a step back till the back of my knees hit the chair behind me.
