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I sighed, appreciating her commitment but also concerned for her well-being.

"Amelia, I appreciate your dedication, but it's late, and you've already put in a long day. You need rest."

She didn't budge, her determination unwavering.

"If you're staying, then I'm staying."

I knew arguing with her would be futile, and I couldn't deny the help would be welcome, especially considering the workload ahead.

I reached into my suit pants pocket, retrieving a wad of cash, which I divided into two stacks. Placing them on Amelia's desk, I pointed to the first stack.

"We'll need lots of coffee and food," I said, acknowledging the late-night fuel we'd require. Then, I pointed to the second stack. "And that's for overtime."

Amelia's eyes lit up with appreciation, and she smiled.

"Thank you, Mr. Hartman."

With a nod, I headed into my office, leaving Amelia to make the necessary arrangements.

As I settled behind my desk, I couldn't help but feel grateful for having such a dedicated and supportive assistant. She was indeed an asset to my team.

The night passed in a blur of paperwork, emails, and phone calls. Amelia and I worked together, fueled by caffeine, spicy Chinese take-out, and old-school determination.

Despite the late hour, I found myself making significant progress on the tasks that had been weighing on my mind.

Always the efficient assistant, Amelia kept a steady stream of coffee and snacks coming, ensuring we continued our efforts. Her presence was a calming one, and her assistance proved invaluable.

As the clock ticked past midnight, I was finally done. I leaned back in my chair, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Amelia, who’d been diligently working at her desk, looked up with a tired but satisfied smile.

"Mr. Hartman, I think we've made excellent progress," she remarked.

I nodded, grateful for her unwavering support.

"Yes, we have, Amelia. I couldn't have done it without you. Thank you."

She stood up, stretching her arms and stifling a yawn.

"You're welcome, Mr. Hartman. It's all part of the job."

I watched as she gathered her things, preparing to head home finally.

"Amelia, please make sure you get a good night's rest. You've more than earned it. Let me take you home. There's no way I'll let you go home alone at this hour."

She nodded and smiled, though her exhaustion was evident.

"Thank you, Mr. Hartman."

The office was now quiet, the city outside bathed in the soft glow of streetlights. My dedication to work could often lead me down this path of late nights and long hours, but having someone like Amelia by my side made it more manageable.

We made our way to the elevator, my thoughts already turning to the tasks that awaited me in the coming days.

But I also knew that it was essential to strike a balance, to appreciate the dedication of those around me, and to ensure that I didn't lose sight of the importance of rest and the people who mattered most in my life.

Chapter Seventeen

Elizabeth

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