The atmosphere inside Hayes Company felt unusually tense that afternoon.
Isabella Vicks sat behind her desk, her fingers moving quickly across her tablet as she finalized the documents for the board meeting. On the outside, she looked calm and focused—just as she always did.
But inside, her mind kept drifting back to what had almost happened in Damien’s office earlier.
If I touch you right now, will you walk away again?
The memory of his voice sent a wave of warmth through her chest, making it difficult to concentrate.
She exhaled slowly.
Focus, Isabella.
Work had always been her shield, and today she needed it more than ever.
The board members had arrived earlier than expected, and Damien had been inside the conference room for nearly an hour now. Through the glass wall down the h
