Hesitation was a luxury Evelyn couldn't afford.

A major client from Aethelgard Industries demanded absolute professionalism. She was the face of the company now. Any misstep was unacceptable.

She quickly ordered coffee and rushed to her office.

The man was already there, seated in her chair with his back to her.

His height was imposing even while sitting.

His posture radiated a casual, yet undeniable, authority.

The suit was unmistakably expensive, tailored to perfection.

But that didn't grant him the right to occupy her seat.

Evelyn suppressed her irritation. She kept her voice cool and businesslike. "Good afternoon. I understand you're here to discuss a potential coboration. May I ask who I have the pleasure of addressing?"

The chair swiveled smoothly.

Theodore Vance met her eyes, a yful smirk playing on his lips. "Evelyn. Has it truly been so long that you've forgotten me?"

He placed a hand over his heart in mock hurt. "That cuts deep. You've wounded me."

Recognition dawned, and Evelyn's face instantly hardened. Her tone turned icy. "What are you doing here?"

Her gaze swept over him, taking in his audacity.

He had the nerve to waltz into her office and make himselffortable in her chair?

"Get out," she said, her expression stony as she pointed to the door. "You are not wee here."

Theodore's easy smile didn't fade. "Is this the famous Aethelgard hospitality? I must say, I expected more."

Evelyn clenched her jaw, struggling to maintainposure. Her words were deliberate. "I am always happy to discuss legitimate business. But you? I don't need to ask. I know you're here to cause trouble."

The smile finally vanished from Theodore's face. His expression darkened, a frown creasing his brow. He fixed her with a sharp look. "You truly believe that? You think I came here just to stir the pot? Is that really how you see me?"

Genuine confusion laced his voice, as if her reaction waspletely unfathomable.

Evelyn held his gaze without flinching. "Theodore, let's not pretend. Isn't causing trouble your entire purpose for being here?"

She crossed her arms, impatience edging into her voice. "Everyone knows your history with this firm. If you're seen in my office, what explanation could I possibly give? Your intentions are transparent."

Theodore listened, then let out a low, understanding chuckle. Instead of rising, he leaned back further into the chair, settling in. "Your staff doesn't even know who I am. So what's there to worry about?"

Evelyn didn't back down. Her voice sharpened to a point. "Theodore, I'm telling you for the final time. Leave. Now. Or I will have security remove you."

For the first time, Theodore's confident mask slipped.

A flash of something raw—perhaps hurt—crossed his eyes before he concealed it.

His voice was quiet, almost wounded.

"Evelyn, must you be so cruel to me?"