Ashtine’s POV
I told myself I wouldn't let a name shake me. But Solène? It kept echoing in my head like a warning. The office felt colder today. Maybe it was just me. Or maybe it was the way Rich barely looked at me when he arrived. His usual curt nod was missing and it was replaced by a distracted silence I couldn’t read.
I hated how I noticed.
I hated how it bothered me.
During the meeting, I stayed composed. Took notes. Avoided glancing at him. But every time I heard his voice, calm and assertive, it stirred something I didn't want to admit and when it ended, he left the room first.
No words. No smirk. Just... gone.
And yet, hours later, I found myself walking to his office with the latest reports. Just doing my job. Or so I told myself.
I knocked once, then entered.
There she w
