Julian made no aggressive moves.
Yet his mere presence there made it impossible for Derek to come any closer.
"Mr. Hale, Ms. Vale is now the partner I cherish most and an indispensable executive at Sterling Group. She's no longer responsible for cleaning up your messes. Show some respect."
Derek's face flushed instantly.
"Partner?"
He stared hard at Julian, then turned to me.
"Natalie, how long have you two even known each other?"
I met his gaze, my tone calm.
"Compared to a seven-year relationship kept hidden, at least he knows how to respect me."
Derek's breath caught in his throat.
Julian handed my laptop bag back to me, his eyes never leaving Derek.
"You were demoted because of your incompetence and violations, not because Natalie left you. Coming to head office to harass he
